Beginnging an I&I Abatement Program

Communities across the country are constantly reviewing their collection systems for long-term sustainability as well as regulatory compliance updates.  Inflow and Infiltration conditions affect both issues, which make I & I commentaries a point of interest for those involved with the daily operation of those systems. 

FloCis Applications Corp. has developed a methodology named Source / Receiver that looks into the I & I complexities.  Designing tools and techniques that offer solutions is what FloCis works towards with each new phase of research and development. 

The initial decision, “a commitment to understand the process of I & I abatement and the knowledge that any correction has costs”, will be the starting point of setting up an I & I Abatement Program.  The 4 Step Process listed below combines with the methodology to provide informational points.

Step 1.  Preparation

• A map of the storm and sanitary collection system, accurate enough to locate any manhole or catch basin “in the middle of the night”.
• A database “linked” to the map of assets, accomplished by GIS location or by asset identification name.  It is designed to manage both the assets and information collected by field staff.
• A fixed metering location downstream of the area affected by wet weather flows.  Accessing precipitation activity using a tipping bucket rain gauge is also needed.
• A topographical map of the watershed that drains through the affected sewer area.
• The training of field and clerical staff.

Step 2.  Deployment

• Verify asset maps by field staff.
• Inspect manholes to collect clues of potential I & I conditions.
• Characterize the dry and wet weather flow
  • wet weather observation
  • conventional metering
  • mass metering with FloStik
• Observe the watershed during wet weather
  • ponding
  • storm drainage
  • ditch and swale behavior

Step 3.   Analyze

• Associate wet weather events with change in drainage using Source/Receiver concepts
• Prove the association with additional wet weather field observations that may include smoke testing and CCTV inspections
• Plan and implement site-specific repairs

Step 4.   Decide

• Develop capital financing and operation and mainenance budgets
• Implement rate adjustments
• Review roles and standards that allow private clean water drainage into sanitary lines
• Develop an infrastructure inspection program
• Plan to address private clear water I & I