AWWA ACE61642

This slide presentation outlines information on two pilot studies conducted by the Birmingham Water Works Board. The first study was to optimize treatment plant operations by: designing and building a mobile conventional treatment pilot plant; using the pilot plant to test treatment modifications off-line; and, working to optimize current treatment practices to meet upcoming regulations as well as test alternative processes (e.g. GAC). The second study was to optimize distribution system operations by: investigating possible leaching of aluminum, lead, and copper already present in the distribution system during a transition from higher to lower pH levels system-wide; quantify concerns about possible destabilization of protective calcium carbonate layers on unlined cast iron and galvanized pipe; evaluating switch from free chlorine to chloramines on pipe corrosion; assessing advantages / disadvantages of switching to a corrosion inhibitor for corrosion control; identifying areas in the distribution system for partial system testing of a corrosion inhibitor; and, recommending a corrosion inhibitor for full-scale consideration if necessary.