Chemical Treatment Station – Proper Installation

Presented by TP Mechanical | Provided by Pat Gallagher TP Mechanical Service Division Lead Installer

My approach to every project I do is to think about the end user. Are the strainers accessible? Are the shut-off valves accessible? Is there a clear path to the backflow preventer? There are many items such as these that the owner will have to deal with long after we leave the project. I have to be sure that once the installation is complete, the product can be modified easily if need be.

One area that I feel I specialize in is in the installation of the chemical treatment stations. Early in my career, I worked in a number of different buildings that had existing cooling towers and chemical treatment stations that were poorly installed. It was obvious that no thought was given to the people that monitor these systems and work around them on a regular basis.

I start by making sure the piping that serves the station is properly connected. This insures that the system has proper flow through the controller and including the blowdown. If the blowdown connection is placed on the bottom of the pipe, make sure you notify someone immediately. This is incorrect installation as it should be near the side or top of the pipe. By placing the pipe near the top, the blowdown strainer won’t clog as often.

After completing the initial inspection, I move on to the inspection of the station itself. I like to mount the treatment pumps on a shelf above the chemical drums. This will keep them from having to be moved every time the drum is changed out. I also like to keep the injection point close to the pumps so there is minimal plastic tubing stretched throughout the space. By taking the time to think ahead about these things, you make sure you have the right amount of space to deliver a professional looking installation.

These stations are points of contact that the owner and chemical treatment provider will continually need access to for the life of the system. If it is done right, it can be a constant reminder of the work we do and a reason to call us back.