Sunday, July 22, 2012

The Basic Essentials of Storm Drain Construction

Concrete storm drain construction refers to a specific niche area within the pipeline industry. This sort of work revolves around installing, repairing, and maintaining the intricate drainage systems used to eliminate excess water and prevent flooding within communities across the nation.  

There are multiple phases of concrete storm drain construction. In the initial phase, General Contractors must employ civil engineers and subsurface engineering contractors to collect information about the construction site and prepare design plans.

Next, storm drain contractors are hired to prepare the site for excavation so pipeline can be installed and fitted. Preparing the job site and installing drainage systems is a complex process that necessitates specialized training and compliance with EPA regulations.

The primary reason for installing storm drainage systems is to safeguard communities against flooding. Storm water is carried to catch basins by gravitational pull. Water passes through curb inlets and subsurface pipes to an outlet pipe where it is discharged into a body of water.
                            
Drainage systems consist of two systems that work independently and together to manage water flow. Minor systems are comprised of several components including pipes, drains, catch basins, inlets, and swales.

More often than not, minor systems perform most of the work. Major systems take over when minor systems become bogged down due to excessive rain or snow melt. Components must work together in harmony to push water to the point of discharge.

Despite the fact storm drainage systems are a vital necessity for public protection, they are a substantial contributor to water pollution. Even though public drainage systems are monitored by the EPA, a substantial amount of toxins are discharged daily into oceans, rivers, and streams.

Municipal systems are outfitted with oil and water separator devices which lessen the level of oil toxin discharge. Although these devices are beneficial they do not prevent other kinds of environmental toxins from passing through the system.

Installing sophisticated filtration systems would reduce the water flow and defeat the purpose of the system. Storm drains must be capable of transporting runoff water rapidly to lessen risks of flooding.

One way to reduce the level of contaminants entering drainage systems is to become more aware of what is being carried away with rain water. Products like motor oil, antifreeze, pesticides, and insecticides are some of the most common toxins found in storm water.

People can make a big difference by eliminating use of toxic chemicals or switching to lawn care treatments that are more natural. Those who change motor oil in their cars or lawn mowers need to take great care to dispose of waste in accordance with city ordinances.

Concrete storm drain builders must abide by local and national waste water management guidelines. Any time contractors are involved with construction projects categorized as municipal, industrial, institutional, or commercial they must acquire National Pollutant Discharge System Program permits.

Because of the intricacies of concrete storm drain construction it is advisable to employ skilled contractors who are properly licensed and certified. Always works with reputable companies that are experienced in the particular kind of system that is being installed or serviced.