The City of Port Wentworth Water Pollution Control Plant

Initial Status Report and System-wide Condition Update

480 Edsel Drive, Ste 100

Richmond Hill, GA 31324
912.445.0050
www.eomworx.com
 November 01, 2022

The City of Port Wentworth, GA

ATTN: Mr. Steve Davis, City Manager
7224 Highway 21
Port Wentworth, GA 31407

Re: Status Report for Water Well, Wastewater Pumping & Treatment Operations

Dear Mr. Davis:

EOM appreciates the City of Port Wentworth taking a new approach to protect its vital
ongoing water well, wastewater pumping station and treatment operations. We
understand the importance and urgency of this decision and hope that over the last month,
we have clearly demonstrated our capabilities, competence, and steadfast commitment to
get the job done.
EOM has been working every day to return your facilities back to their original state and
working order. EOM desires to continue work to optimize the city’s critical infrastructure by
implementing best maintenance management solutions that reduce operational costs and
extend the lifecycle of high value assets, which in turn add tremendous value to Port
Wentworth. We are proud to provide you with our initial status report and system wide
condition update.
Thank you for this opportunity. We look forward to continuing to work together with the City
of Port Wentworth for the benefit of its citizenry. We are Excellence in Operations
Management. We are EOM.

Very truly yours,

EOM Operations

Melissa Hurd James Michael Fountain Charles Heino

President & Chief Director of Industrial Regional Director
Financial Officer Operations
 Table of Contents

Content Section

INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………………………………………….….………1.0
Evaluation Objectives
The Evaluation Process
Port Wentworth Plant & Process Description

PRELIMINARY TREATMENT……………………………………………….…………………………..….………..….2.0
Headworks
Deficiencies in Headworks/Performance Limiting Factors
Summary

SECONDARY TREATMENT……………………………..…..………………………………………….….……….……3.0
Process Description
Treatment Process/Equipment Descriptions
Detail Summaries

EFFLUENT DISC FILTRATION ………………………….…………………………..…………………….…..…….4.0

Deficiencies in Filtration/Performance Limiting Factors
Summary

UV DISINFECTION SYSTEM & CHEMICALS BUILDING….……………………….………….…….5.0

Existing Equipment
Process Evaluation

EFFLUENT REUSE & SUPEROXYGENATION SYSTEM ……..…………………….….…….………6.0

Existing System
Solids Process Improvement
Summary

DIGESTION & SOLIDS HANDLING……………………………………….…………..………….……..………….7.0

Existing System
Solids Equipment/ Process Deficiencies
Summary

SCADA, LAB, OPERATIONS BUILDING & SITE LIGHTING ……..……………….………………8.0

SCADA System
Laboratory
Operations/Admin Building
Plant/Site Lighting

WATER WELL/WASTEWATER PUMPING STATIONS……….…………….…………..……………9.0

CONCLUSION.…………………..……..….…………………………………………...……………….……….………………10.0
Section 1
INTRODUCTION

On October 6, 2022, the City of Port Wentworth requested an interim public/private

partnership with EOM Operations (EOM) to assume responsible charge and manage the city’s
wastewater treatment facility, a portion of its collections system, the wastewater pumping
stations, as well as water wells. As a leader in the industry, EOM has a tradition of excellence
and transparency by proactively reporting on internal operations related to the state of the
system. Our goals are to manage the impacts of our own operations and apply our
company’s portfolio of services to help our clients optimize and protect their critical
infrastructure.

EOM has performed an initial 30-day evaluation of the Port Wentworth Water Pollution
Control Plant as well as the City’s wastewater pumping stations and water wells. This
evaluation is a summary of the collected efforts conducted on the plant to identify
performance-limiting factors within and impacting the plant. The following sections will
review and report the existing condition of the plant's unit processes and operations as well as
high value asset condition. EOM has continuously worked in concert with others to develop a
plan to deliver solutions that will effectively address the issues (deficiencies) identified. The
EOM team responsible for the development of this report is comprised of members of both
EOM Operations, EOM Industrial, and numerous manufacturer representatives.

1.1 Evaluation Objectives

This document contains an in-depth diagnostic evaluation of the asset condition and
operation of the Port Wentworth Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP) and its ability to
comply with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit. Based on
this evaluation, EOM has identified corrective actions to address numerous areas of concern.
The list contained herein shall be completed upon level of priority and written approval from
the city. The objectives of this report include the following:

• Evaluation of the plant's assets and operations as well as its ability to meet all terms of
the NPDES permit and recently issued Consent Order issued on September 27, 2022, by
Georgia Environmental Protection Division.
• Major unit process evaluation
• Identification of performance-limiting factors
• Projected impact of recommended solutions to address issues identified

2013 Original Photos of NEW Plant - Courtesy of City of Port Wentworth

1.2 The Evaluation Process
The EOM team began the evaluation process with an emergency kickoff meeting held on
October 5, 2022. Following the kickoff meeting, members of the operations and Industrial
teams conducted their first official plant rounds to lay eyes and skilled hands on every asset
and unit process from the plant headworks to the solids handling area. EOM put the brightest
minds together to collaborate with city leadership to develop long lasting solutions that will
make a positive impact and guarantee strict adherence to NPDES permit requirements.

1.3 Port Wentworth Plant & Process Description

The Port Wentworth plant was constructed in 2011 as a Sequencing Batch Reactor facility
operating at 2.0 million gallons per day (MGD) with room to expand to 4.0 MGD. The plant
features water reclamation capability designed to produce high-quality effluent that can be
used for re-use activities such meeting plant reuse needs.
The treatment plant is also touted as the first Zero Ultimate Oxygen Demand facility in the
Southeastern United States. The facility utilizes multiple mechanical processes including,
screening, grit removal, fine screening, sequencing batch reactors (SBR), post-equalization
basin, chemical addition for nutrient precipitation, effluent disc filtration, UV disinfection, and
super oxygenation of discharged effluent. Solids handling is complete with aerobic digestion
and dewatering using a belt filter press. Dewatered biosolids are hauled to a landfill. The
processed water is either discharged to the Savannah River in the Savannah River Basin or
distributed to reuse customers. The current NPDES permit, GA0038814, was reissued
September 10, 2021 and became effective on October 1, 2021. The permit authorizes the City of
Port Wentworth to discharge into the Savannah River until midnight September 30, 2026.
Figure 1-1 is a schematic of the plant's major unit processes.

Figure 1-1 Flow Schematic

Section 2
PRELIMINARY TREATMENT

The Port Wentworth WPCP's preliminary treatment unit, referred to herein as the headworks, is the
first major unit process in the series of the plant's unit processes and was evaluated to identify
limitations resulting from the existing head works' equipment/configuration or operation.

2.1 Headworks
The plant's headworks consists of an Influent Parshall Flume, Mechanical Fine Screening and Grit
Removal Systems. The plant's head works is comprised of two layers of screening to prevent
damage to SBR Reactors and downstream processes. The first stage is a mechanical bar screen
that utilizes a bar and rake process to remove larger debris from raw wastewater prior to grit
removal. Once influent has been mechanically screened and passed through the grit chamber for
grit removal, it is pumped to the SBR Reactors.
These screens are the primary means of protecting downstream process from harmful
constituents in the influent water such as hard solids, grease, and debris from trash. By keeping
these systems in good working order, presence of problematic debris in the treatment portion of
the plant is greatly reduced.

2.2 Deficiencies in Headworks

Upon arrival, the facility’s Influent Auto Sampler PW-WW-HW-03 was found to be in pieces and
inoperable. This piece of equipment takes and holds composite samples for laboratory analysis.
EOM has coordinated the immediate replacement of this asset. The unit is set to arrive this
week and will be installed by EOM Industrial technicians.

Per NPDES permit, A composite sample shall consist of a minimum of 5 subsamples collected at
least once every 2 hours for at least 8 hours and shall be composited proportionately to flow. It
is unclear how routine composite sampling could have been performed considering the state of
this asset. Likewise, there is no documentation in the on-site lab records or process logbooks to
indicate manual composite sampling was being performed in-lieu of this broken equipment.

Posted in the lab is a sample schedule indicating that

auto samplers were set to sample from midnight till
8:00 AM on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday’s. If
manual composite samples were being performed, it
is unclear what times samples were taken considering
the plant would not have been staffed during the
designated sampling intervals of 0000-0800 each of
those nights.

Disassembled Sampler Posted Sampling schedule

EOM observed the Mechanical Fine Screen PW-WW-HW-06 was inoperable and out of service.
It appeared the Manual Bar Screen was being used as a back-up to capture heavy materials
ineffectively. EOM Industrial repaired proximity switches that were broken off and damaged. It
was also determined that the unit would not stay running due to a faulty zero speed sensor
which was replaced. Unit is now fully operational and back in service.

Damaged/Disconnected Proximity Switch New switch installation

The Headworks PW-WW-HW-01 area of the plant post Bar Screen had what appeared to be a
Heavy Rag and Debris Mass partially blocking influent flow. A mass accumulation of this size is
likely due to debris that was allowed to pass with Manual Bar Screen use and a clear indication
of gross negligence in the management of this facility. In the event this mass broke free and
entered directly into the system, downstream processes and infrastructure would have
experienced partial to full blockage, clogging and increased pressure within plant components
that could have resulted in a catastrophic failure and/or spill.

Over a period of three (3) days, EOM Industrial teams removed the blockage both manually and
using EOM’s Vacuum Truck, extracting approx. 1000-2000 lbs. of debris. The well is now clear.
and fully operational.

3-day Removal process of massive debris accumulation

 PW-WW-HW-44 BIO-AIR SCRUBBER. This newly installed odor control system is out of service
and appears to have an ongoing pipe/flange leak and corrosion on the base pad. It is unclear
how long the system has been down. EOM has been in contact with the vendor who is
scheduled to provide an onsite system assessment.

Leaking Flange Heavy Concrete Pad Corrosion

According to the current operations contract with the city, facilities must be operated in a
manner such that odor and noise shall be controlled within the design capacity and parameters
of the facilities. Without an asset management program, it is unclear as to the timeline of
events that surround this relatively new piece of equipment, what corrective action steps were
taken for this unit and if this unit was maintained according to industry and manufacturer
recommendations.

Headworks Control Panels for the Screenings System

PW-WW-HW 24 and the Grit System PW-WW-HW-
42 were found to have some Blown Indicator lights.
Control panel lighting provides a visual alert to
operators and mechanical technicians that the
system is operational. Warning indicators also serve
to prompt further action and evaluation of the
associated system. They are early warning signs and
must be operational at all times. EOM is replacing the
inoperable bulbs.

Visual Indicator White Power Bulb Blown

2.3 Summary
Repair Detail for Headworks

Work Order Detail exported from EOM Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS)
Section 3
SECONDARY TREATMENT
The purpose of this section is to describe and evaluate the performance of the major unit
processes found in secondary treatment, and to identify limitations resulting from
equipment/configuration or operation.

3.1 Treatment Process/Equipment Deficiencies

The following paragraphs give a brief description of the treatment processes and corresponding
equipment status, repair activity and/or recommendations for improvement.

Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) System

SBR REACTOR_1 PW-WW-SB-02 was out of service and left
to settle without mixing or aeration. Basin #1 Limitorque
actuator needs to be replaced before basin can be put back
into service. It appears this reactor has been out of service
for some time. It was reported to the city that quotes for
replacement of this asset were presented in September 2022,
yet no approval was given. EOM reached out to Chalmers
and Kubeck South to re-quote this product and was notified
that the previous quote date for the same asset was
Inoperable Limitorque Actuator
September 13, 2021. The Actuator has been ordered and will
be installed upon arrival. EOM believes the SBR Reactor_1
has likely been out of service for at least one year and maybe longer.

Both SBR REACTORS 2 & 3 PW-WW-SB-20 and PW-WW-SB-38 appear to be in a state of

process disruption. Basin conditions are poor. Air diffusion is essential to the plant processes
and can significantly affect TSS, DO, and Ammonia in the final effluent. Air flow being delivered
to the (2) SBR’s left in service appear to be coming from (2) blowers working simultaneously vs
alternating to cycle with critical on-off times. Visual inspection in the basin should reveal a fine
bubble diffuser pattern. EOM observed vigorous coarse bubbling and excess turbulence which
can further potentiate damage to diffusers and ineffective process control.

All Diffuser Assemblies will need to be repaired/replaced however, this is not a viable option
until the Limitorque actuator is replaced and all basins are able to be emptied and cleaned to
access to the diffuser assemblies. SBR REACTOR 1 must first be operational to regulate flow
between the basins and ensure redundancy of process control.

Coarse Turbulence in SBR Reactors 2&3

 It was reported that 184 diffusers have been ordered. Other reports indicate that before the
order would be placed, the basins would be cleaned. Based on what we have learned, the
current state of the plant appears to have been ongoing for at least the timeline realized with
the Limitorque actuator; approx. 1 year or longer.

A final observation and perhaps the most striking was the presence of all critical process
measurement hardware uninstalled, unprotected, in pieces and scattered across walkways
creating a safety issue/tripping hazard. This sensitive, highly technical equipment is critical to
successful process management of the plant. Without these installed, continuous level
monitoring in the basins is impossible, modulation of the aeration system is not possible, and
overall plant operations are less efficient, consuming more power.

ALL DO, pH, and TSS meters need to be reinstalled back to their
original locations on the basins and reintegrated to the SCADA
system so the plant can use them to operate.

EOM will be meeting onsite with both Hach and Aqua-Aerobics

representatives Thursday November 3, 2022, where we will verify
the reported diffuser assembly order, delivery date, and the state of
the plant instrumentation. The goal will be to receive Manufacturer
assessments and recommendation, as well as gather as much
historical history of the plant as possible.

Absence of Measurement Probes Uninstalled Instrumentation Tripping Hazard

Repair Summary Detail for SBR Process System

CMMS Program uses Unique asset ID for each component of the Plant for easy tracking of Work to be performed and history
BLOWER/MCC Building
PW-WW-SB-58 SBR Blower_2 located in the
Blower/MCC Building was inoperable.
Electricians found contactor was burnt up and
shorting out the blower. EOM replaced
contactor as well as blown fuse for high
temperature sensor. This unit is listed on the
estimated expense projection sheet presented
to the city for replacement. Blower is now
operational and does not need replacement
thus saving approximately $20,000 in budgeted
repair dollars.

Burnt Contactor shorting out SBR Blower_2 BLOWER BUILDING/MCC ASSET LIST

Digester Blower PW-WW-SP-14 was also inoperable and tagged out of service. Previous
documentation reveals estimated expense projections to replace this unit. EOM Industrial
performed test runs on blower and blower passed. Checked all amperage and voltage going to
blower and control room. Results were within normal limits. Unit is operational and has been
returned to service saving Port Wentworth an additional $20,000 in unnecessary repair expense.

SBR Blowers 1, 2 & 3 and Digester Blower Preventative Maintenance. It is unclear when the last
preventative maintenance oil changes for these Blowers were performed. There are no records
on-site. Visual oil Inspection shows signs of long use in all blowers. EOM is recommending
performing oil changes for all (4) blowers.

Both PW-WW-SB-58 SBR Blower_1 and PW-WW-SB-59 SBR Blower_3 had disconnected
Pressure Tubes which serve to function as pressure differential detection that alerts operators in
the presence of clogging. Both need to be replaced to maintain optimal blower functioning.

SBR Blower_1 Pressure Tube Disconnection SBR Blower_3 Pressure Tube Disconnection
SBR Blowers 1, 2 & 3 and Digester Blower Preventative Maintenance From the Condition
observed in the pictures below, the filters serving the Blower units have not been properly
maintained. The Blower filters are so dirty and have remained in place for so long that the
cardboard is disintegrating. It appears they have not been changed in approx. (1 ) or more years.
The housing unit will now require deep cleaning and pressure washing to remove dirt and
grime buildup before replacing new. EOM will replace 6 filters with 6 pre-air filters.

Blower Building_ Air Filter Housing

Master Control Center (MCC) Panels were found to have

some Blown Indicator lights. Control panel lighting
provides a visual alert to operators and mechanical
technicians that the system is operational. Warning
indicators also serve to prompt further action and
evaluation of the associated system. They are early
warning signs and must be operational at all times.
EOM is replacing the inoperable bulbs.
Cardboard Disintegration of existing Air Filters
PLC Remote_1 Control has lost Power. This control is
responsible for sending signals for the generator running status and the chemicals injection
pumps. EOM Industrial recommends battery back-up has failed and needs replace. Parts have
been ordered.

Exhaust Fans_1 PW-WW-SB 69, _2 PW-WW-SB-70 & _3 PW-WW-SB-71 Preventative Maintenance.

Preventative Maintenance has not been performed on these assets. Belts are worn and need
replacement on Fans 1 & 2. Additionally, both Fans have inoperable Louver Control Arms and need
replace. Exhaust Fan 3 is inoperable and out of service. This fan requires further in-depth
assessment and repair.

Repair Detail for Blower Building/MCC

 Section 4
EFFLUENT DISC FILTRATION_TERTIARY TREATMENT

Effluent from secondary treatment flows through one of two effluent disc filters where fine particulates are
removed to increase solids removal and optimize UV disinfection. Initial evaluation exposed (3) assets
requiring evaluation and repair.

4.1 Deficiencies in Filtration

Sample/Sump Pump PW-WW-EF-20 was missing. Empty bucket that held sump pump present
next to location where the pump should be installed. EOM Industrial has ordered a new pump
from Grainger for installation and reintegration with the online metering device.

Turbidity Meter/Analyzer PW-WW-EF-17 was evaluated and appears to function. Turbidity

should be monitored continuously. The issue here is that for the readings displayed on this
meter to be accurate, a sump pump must be in place and actively pumping water to the
turbidity meter. The meter was empty at the time of assessment. It is unclear whether the
previous readings being recorded were accurate.

Disc Filter Control Panel PW-WW-EF-19 was found to have some Blown Indicator lights. Control
panel lighting provides a visual alert to operators and mechanical technicians that the system is
operational. Warning indicators also serve to prompt further action and evaluation of the
associated system. They are early warning signs and must be operational at all times. EOM is
replacing the inoperable bulbs.

Turbidity Meter is Empty rendering it unable to provide accurate Readings Empty Sample/Sump Pump Bucket

4.2 Summary
Repair Detail for Disc Filters
Section 5
UV DISINFECTION SYSTEM & CHEMICAL FEED SYSTEMS

5.1 Existing Equipment/Unit Process

The Port Wentworth WPCP is equipped with a three-channel ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system.
UV disinfection uses radiation to penetrate the cell wall of an organism. The genetic DNA of the
organism is then limited in its ability to reproduce.
The Chemical Storage Area & Adjoining Chemical Feed Room serves to house storage tanks for (3)
bulk treatment chemicals used at the plant: Sodium Hypochlorite Disinfectant (HOCl) Sodium
Hydroxide or Caustic (NaOH), and Poly Aluminum Chloride (PAC). Each system is equipped with
chemical pumps and a delivery system that feed specific areas of the plant process and controlled
by flowmeter signaling.

5.2 Process Evaluation

PW-WW-UV-02 UV Module_Bank 2 and
PW-WW-UV-01 Wiper System have
repair needs. Bank 2 has a fault code
that will not clear but appears to be
working. EOM has contacted Trojan
technical support to see why alarms
won’t clear. Awaiting direction for this
and Wiper System Analysis.

There was a previous recommendation

for UV Module_Bank 3 to be rebuilt. EOM
is not seeing any operational problems
with this bank or its functionality at this
time but will further review to avoid
unnecessary spending. Bank_2 Fault Code_ Unable to Reset

PW-WW-UV-01 Wiper System have repair needs. Bank 2 has a fault code that will not clear but
appears to be working. EOM has contacted Trojan technical support to see why alarms won’t
clear. Awaiting direction for this and Wiper System Analysis. Representative from Trojan is
scheduled to be onsite November 7, 2022.

There was a previous recommendation for UV Module Bank 3 to be rebuilt. EOM is not seeing
any operational problems with this bank or its functionality at this time but will further review to
avoid unnecessary spending.

Repair Detail for UV Disinfection System

PW-WW-CH-07 PAC Storage Tank holds 6,000 gallons of bulk chemical and presented with approximately
2 feet of sludge built up in the bottom. The tank had to be drained into a temporary storage tote and
required extensive Tank Clean-out using Vacuum Truck service. The tank was further Pressure washed
and returned to its original state for use. No Emergency Placards present on tanks. EOM has ordered.

PAC Storage Tank Clean Out requiring 8 hours and a team of (4) men

PW-WW-CH-04 PAC Pump 1 was inoperable and needed repair. Preventative maintenance was not being
performed on this system. All hoses needed replace.

PW-WW-CH-14 Caustic Feed System The Caustic

feed system was inoperable. While the tank condition
itself appeared intact, the feeding system
infrastructure is broken and cracked in multiple
places making a necessary pH control impossible to
utilize and a safety hazard due to the corrosive nature
of this substance.

Inability to effectively control pH post nitrification

process can drop the pH below 6.0 thus leading to
permit violations for elevated ammonia. A fully
functional Caustic delivery system is absolutely
necessary to meet pH requirements when chemical
addition is warranted to maintain permit compliance.

It was reported to the city that that the caustic

system is not needed for operation. Given the state
of this asset, the lengthy history of NPDES permit
violations for elevated ammonia and (2) Consent
orders received in one-year, it is evident the system
was not available for use even when needed. The pH
level reading was in violation at 5.33 when EOM
assumed plant charge and below accepted levels
defined in the permit.

EOM temporarily adjusted the system for

functionality and is in the process of making
permanent repairs. EOM Operators have been using
Caustic as needed to control pH levels. The pH range
has been within permit limit range of 6.0-9.0. Chemical Feed System Leaking Caustic
PW-WW-CH-01 CHEMICAL FEED SYSTEMS. System Water line insulation was torn and missing on potable
water line connecting to the chemical feed system area. All insulation is being replaced.

Control Panels for the PAC System PW-WW-CH-07, Caustic PW-WW-CH-19,

and Hypochlorite PW-WW-CH-13 were found to have some Blown Indicator
lights. Control panel lighting provides a visual alert to operators and
mechanical technicians that the system is operational. Warning indicators
also serve to prompt further action and evaluation of the associated system.
They are early warning signs and must be operational at all times. EOM is
replacing the inoperable bulbs.

PW-WW-CH-20 Exhaust Fan_4. Fan is inoperable in an area where Chemicals are

present which poses a safety concern. Motor is seized and making a loud humming
noise. Will need immediate repair/replace.

Repair Detail for Chemical Feed System

Section 6
EFFLUENT REUSE & SUPER OXYGENATION SYSTEM

Flow form the UV System enters the Reuse & Effluent Pump Station. Flow begins into the Reuse
Wet Well where it is intended to be used for plant operations. Any excess is to spill over into the
Effluent well and discharged to a super oxygenation process and finally to the Savannah River. The
basis of the evaluation for this area of the plant was to determine why the Reuse System is not
operational given the large volume of water the plant is required to use in order to complete
system processes. Revitalizing the Plant Reuse system will serve Port Wentworth and the
environment by reducing costs and unnecessary usage of our vital resource, WATER.

6.1 Existing System Deficiencies

Initial assessment revealed that PW-WW-EP-01 Effluent Pumping Station needed an immediate
contingency plan in place because only (1) Effluent pump was currently in service and there would
be nothing to prevent a plant spill in the event of an unforeseen remaining pump failure. EOM
Industrial coordinated with Operations to stage an emergency bypass pump and retrofit a bypass
hose connection to the existing Pump 1 Flange which would serve to protect plant assets from a
spill.

PW-WW-EP-16 Effluent Pump_1 is out of service and has been sent to GWI for evaluation and
Pump /Motor Rebuild August 8, 2022. ETA of this asset is early December.

Effluent Pump_2. No redundancy should this pump fail.

Effluent Pump_1 Out of Service for Repairs.

As described with the Influent Sampler early in the report, the facility’s Effluent Auto Sampler PW-
WW-EP-29 was also inoperable. As described previously, this piece of equipment takes and holds
composite samples for laboratory analysis and permit compliance. The Effluent sampler was in a
frozen condition unable to properly regulate internal temperature to the proper tolerance. EOM
has coordinated the immediate replacement of this asset. The unit is set to arrive this week and
will be installed by EOM Industrial technicians.
The PLANT REUSE SYSTEM is out of service. All process
water is being supplied from a metered City water line.
This 4” metered city water line to the reuse pump station
wet well provides an alternate source of internal plant
water if there is an interruption in plant influent flow. Both
Reuse Pumps have been evaluated. Currently the Valves
that serve the Plant reuse water function have been closed
and locked down with chains. Further
electrical/mechanical assessment is schedule for EOM
Industrial to determine if these pumps are viable and why
the plant water source is 100% on Savannah Potable. It is
unclear how long this has been going on.

Reuse System Valves are chained and out of service Plant Reuse Pumps 1&2 Not in Service

The Reuse Pump 1 PW-WW-EP-08 is locked up, the shaft will not turn. It is unclear at this time if it
is the motor or pump locked up. Pump/Motor will need to be pulled to determine cause.

The Reuse Pump 2 PW-WW-EP-09 is in the process of testing all control systems and performing
motor test before energizing motor. It is not safe to energize system with unknowns of why the
system was locked out with the chain and lock.

The Reuse Wet Well PW-WW-EP-07 contains a high-level float that was not operating or sending
out alarm signals. This was replaced on October 26th by EOM.

Control Panel for the Effluent/Reuse System PW-WW-EP-28 was found to have some Blown
Indicator lights. Control panel lighting provides a visual alert to operators and mechanical
technicians that the system is operational. Warning indicators also serve to prompt further action
and evaluation of the associated system. They are early warning signs and must be operational at
all times. EOM is replacing the inoperable bulbs

PW-WW-EP-31 Effluent Flowmeter and PW-WW_HW-02 Influent Flowmeter According to NPDES

Permit requirements, Calibration of these units must be performed twice a year. Flowtronics is
the most current vendor to perform these duties. They report having conducted this task
annually. Last date performed was April 20,2022. Stickers on Units indicate next date due
April/2023. EOM has requested a second calibration to be performed as soon as possible.
PW-WW-EP-32 SUPER OXYGENATION SYSTEM. As installed was inoperable and out of service. At
some point supplemental oxygen source was installed while original system was down, but it has
been determined that supplemental air was not being supplied into the system and was valved
off in the control panel, making supplemental oxygen application useless.

An ECO2 Service Technician performed a specialty site visit to perform a system evaluation on
Thursday 10/06/2022. It appears from the report, the system has been problematic for nearly (1)
year. Recommendations and actionable items can be found on the following included report
pages.

Report take aways include a Solonoid valve that prevents water backflow into the control panel
had been removed from oxygen inlet piping and placed in the Control Panel. Technician
determined that water had entered the control panel. Technician recommended replacement of
the Solonoid Valve and Check valve which is indicative that a leak had occurred previously. EOM
has created work orders for all action items and will repair accordingly.

6.2 Summary
Repair Detail for Effluent Reuse & Super Oxygenation Systems
Date: October 20th, 2022
To: Marcus Hobgood
Subject: Field Evaluation - ECO2 System
Project: Port Wentworth Effluent Force Main – Oxygen Injection System
Location: Port Wentworth, GA
From: Garret Schleis, ECO2

Dear Marcus,

For the project listed above, an ECO2 Service Technician performed a site visit and system
evaluation on October 6th, 2022. The following is a summary of actionable items that must be
performed to achieve proper system function and adequate effluent dissolved oxygen levels.

EVALUATION – Notes taken by the ECO2 Service Technician to describe the systems status,
functionality, and provide operator understanding.

ACTION ITEMS – A step by step guide that the operator should follow to limit downtown of the
ECO2 Post Oxygenation equipment.

IMAGES – Site images and other information have been included on the tail end of this report
to provide further information and aid in performing the action items.

9339 Priority Way West Drive Suite 100 Indianapolis, IN 46240 317.706.6484 Fax: 317.816.0940 www.eco2tech.com
EVALUATION:

1. Speece Cone & Water Piping: The Eco2 Speece Cone, Image 2, is functional and
does not require any additional maintenance. The cone is only hydraulically filled when
the effluent pumps, and the ECO2 Side stream pumps, turn on and force water up the
side stream piping and into the top of the Speece Cone. All piping was deemed
appropriate.

2. Process Control Panel: The Process Control Panel, Image 3, appears to be recording
the proper signaling for the Force Main flow rate (discharge rate) and the sidestream
temperature (located near the cone). It is possible that is also recording sidestream
pressure and this value was at 0psi during the system evaluation. Oxygen flow has a
recorded 0 ppd due to the missing mass flow controller, Image 4.

3. Oxygen Control Panel: The has been an indication that some water has flown
backwards into the oxygen control panel. This is visually representative by the glass
rotameter located within the panel. The Alicat Mass Flow Controller was also removed
with a new meter dropped off at the time of the visit. To achieve proper, autonomous
operation, the Mass Flow Controller should be installed but not after following the other
action items listed on the next page.

4. Oxygen Piping to Speece Cone: The solenoid valve has been removed from the
oxygen inlet piping and was placed within the Oxygen Control Panel. This devices
functionality was not determined during the site visitation. The purpose of this device is
to prevent water from flowing back into the Oxygen Control Panel which had also
occurred. This should be replaced, or reinstated, and wired accordingly. Additionally, the
check valve should be replaced or cleaned as it is indicative that a leak had occurred
previously.

5. Side stream Pumps: The sidestream pumps, Image 5, were operated manually (via
Marcus and Garret) during the plants cycled discharge. However, there were no
indicators on the sidestream flowmeter that any water was flowing through the Speece
Cone. The mechanically piping must be checked on the discharge of the plant to ensure
all valves are open, allowing for a wetted suction on the pumps and ability to flow
through the Eco2 System.

6. OGSI Oxygen Generator: The oxygen generator, Image 6, has not been in operation
for over a year to Eco2’s knowledge. I have contacted OGSI and will follow up with a
quotation for their site evaluation, in which they can provide cost estimates for part
replacement.

9339 Priority Way West Drive Suite 100 Indianapolis, IN 46240 317.706.6484 Fax: 317.816.0940 www.eco2tech.com
ACTION ITEMS:

1. Purchase Oxygen Cleaning Solution: An oxygen cleaning solution such as Micro-90

(can be purchased off of Uline) is depicted in Image 7. This should be purchased for the
purpose of cleaning some of the fittings within the Oxygen Control Panel. This process,
described on the back of the container, will consist of a 15-minute soak in a
water/solution mixture, and then a 15-minute soak in a distilled water solution before
being left to air dry. Do NOT perform this on the Alicat.

2. Remove Solenoid: The ECO2 oxygen injection line should be taken apart near the
entrance to the cone to check for debri and allow for the reconnection of the Solenoid.
The solenoid should be wired to the ECO2 system’s Process Control Panel and should
click when energized. Determine the condition of the check valve, after cleaning.
Reconnect the piping and the oxygen inlet to the Speece Cone. Close the hand valve,
located on the oxygen inlet to the cone, while the system is off for lone periods of time.

3. Reconnect the ALICAT MFC: Connect the Alicat MFC within the Oxygen Control Panel
and wire accordingly. I believe that the power cord is left atop the panel, so there will not
be much electrical work required here. The Alicat should be responsive to the Systems
Process Control Panel and the setpoints should reflect the ppd setpoints set by the
operator.

4. Determine Side Stream Pump Operation: These pumps will need to operate and
pump water through the ECO2 Speece Cone to allow for oxygen transfer. It needs to be
determined why there is no flow. Secondly, these pumps need to be tied into the ECO2
Process Control Panel for operation. I am unsure if this installed as the pumps were not
operating correctly during the visitation.

5. Use Oxygen Bottles till OGSI Performs Evaluation: I was informed that the oxygen
bottles were sufficient (and we have other customers that only use oxygen sources such
as these) for meeting Port Wentworth’s permit. Garret from ECO2 will follow up with a
budgetary cost for an OGSI field representative to perform a visitation and determine
which components require replacement.

6. Connect ECO2 Modem: Once 1-4 are complete, ECO2 will send a remote modem to
connect to our Process Control Panel. This will allow us to observe the systems
operation and help your operators fix any bugs that may occur from component
replacement, extended downtime, etc.

9339 Priority Way West Drive Suite 100 Indianapolis, IN 46240 317.706.6484 Fax: 317.816.0940 www.eco2tech.com
 Image 1: SuperOxygenation System Image 2: Speece Cone

Image 3: Process Control Panel Image 4: Oxygen Control Panel

9339 Priority Way West Drive Suite 100 Indianapolis, IN 46240 317.706.6484 Fax: 317.816.0940 www.eco2tech.com
Image 5: Duty Standby Sidestream Pumps Image 6: OGSI Oxygen Generator

Image 7: Oxygen Cleaning Solution

9339 Priority Way West Drive Suite 100 Indianapolis, IN 46240 317.706.6484 Fax: 317.816.0940 www.eco2tech.com
Section 7
DIGESTION & SOLIDS HANDLING

The plant solids handling systems were thoroughly evaluated for functionality and deficiency.

7.1 Existing System

Continued aeration of waste through in the Digester lowers the volatile components of the waste
thereby reducing odor, pathogens and insect/rodent attraction. Likewise, System Decanting
increase solids content of the sludge and efficiency of the dewatering process.
Using Polymers, gravity drainage and pressure, Digested Sludge enters the Dewatering System
that includes a Grinder Station and Belt Press. After being pressed, contents are conveyed to a
dumpster that is periodically picked up and disposed of in a local landfill.

7.2 Solids Equipment/Process Deficiencies

Initial field assessment revealed Sludge in the Aerobic Digester which was black and odorous due
to being in a septic state. This septic condition was a result of the lack of process management.
Both PW-WW-SP-03 MIXER as well as the PW-WW-SP-14 Digester Blower were out of service.
MIXER was onsite but not installed. Placing mixer back in Basin will require use of a Crane. EOM
Industrial to coordinate.

Digester Blower has been repaired as described in Section 3.1. It is now back in service and
aerating the Basin. By Day 3 of EOM charge, the Digester was no longer septic.

The Level Transducer for this Basin was found to be Bound up with Debris and Inoperable. EOM
Industrial pulled and cleaned and will evaluate functionality of this instrument.

Mixer is not Installed in Basin. Sludge is Odorous & Septic. Level Transducer bound with Debris and Inoperable

EOM discovered a SPARE WAS Pump

PW-WW-SP-18 that was damaged. The spare
pump on site had a broken flange and will need
to be welded. EOM Industrial welded the
broken piece, grinded, cleaned and painted to
complete.

Before After
Sludge Grinder PW-WW-BP-02 was making a loud noise, clogged and not passing fluids
through. This required opening the Bypass to feed Sludge pumps. Coupler was destroyed.
EOM installed new Spider Gear and Rewired pump. Grinder is back in service.

Coupler/Spider Gear Pulverized

Found that Sludge Pump 1 PW-WW-BP-11 will only

operate from integral screen on drive; will not operate in
hand or auto. Issue with communications card.
Phoenix assisted in re-programming and will order new New Spider Gear Installation
communications card for this unit.

Sludge Pump 2 PW-WW-BP-12 had a heavily leaking Packing Gland. Replaced packing and
repaired damaged packing grommet that was bent. It appears someone had forced it into
place in the past.

Before After

The Belt Filter Press PW-WW-BP-18 was inoperable. PLC required onsite reset programming by
Phoenix. EOM recommended (1) new communications card and (1) Spare to be installed.
Current card is showing signs of failure with intermittent functionality. Belt Press is running.

PW-WW-BP-38 Belt Wash System Actuator Malfunction. This is determined to be related to a

problematic Actuator and will have to be addressed once overall plant process is stabilized.

PW-WW-BP-22 Air Compressor squealing and low on oil. Purchased new and changed belt,
changed oil and performed start-up.

PW-WW-BP-45 Doctor Blades New Blades that were found onsite were installed by EOM
Industrial.
Control Panels for Grinder Station & Belt Press PW-WW-BP-46, PW_WW_BP-06 was found to
have some Blown Indicator lights. Control panel lighting provides a visual alert to operators and
mechanical technicians that the system is operational. Warning indicators also serve to prompt
further action and evaluation of the associated system. They are early warning signs and must be
operational at all times. EOM is replacing the inoperable bulbs

7.3 Summary

Repair Detail for Digestion & Solids Handling System

Section 8
SCADA, LAB, OPERATIONS BUILDING & SITE LIGHTING

8.1 SCADA System Monitoring

The WPCP currently runs a Dorsett Technologies MicroScan Universal Controller – UNV and
associated equipment SCADA system that monitors the operations of the facility. EOM has
observed that some plant components are not communicating. For instance, the Effluent Meter
is not communicating with SCADA which renders it unable to totalize or trend data. Manual
readings of this meter are currently the only means of tracking flow.

EOM recommends having the manufacturer evaluate SCADA system capabilities and facilitate
re-integration of components no longer trending in the system. Aqua-Aerobics will be
conducting onsite assessments November 3, 2022.

8.2 Laboratory
Observed Lab bench books indicate onsite testing was being performed however, upon arrival,
key lab supplies were not available. There was no useable distilled water to perform any testing.
There was no filter paper to analyze Total Suspended Solids.

Initial rounds of testing by EOM have been sent to a 3rd party laboratory to allow for comparison
of most recent recorded lab results provided to the City. EOM has cleaned and re-supplied the
Lab and it is fully operational.

8.3 Operations/Admin Building

PW-WW-UT-03 Operations Admin Building houses a Maintenance Room with an AC Wall Unit
that needs replacement. There appears to be obvious wall damage and unit is not sealed,
exposed to the outside and inoperable. The Room itself is disheveled and a safety concern.
8.4 Plant/Site Lighting
PW-WW-UT-05 Site Lighting EOM has observed 50% of Lighting both inside and outside the
plant is not functional and poses a safety concern. EOM will troubleshoot and replace all bulbs
and other Lighting issues plantwide.
Section 9
WELLS/WASTEWATER PUMPING SYSTEMS

The City of Port Wentworth includes (17) wastewater pumping stations; (3) Water Wells and
(2) Elevated Storage Tanks. All wells are currently offline and not in use. 1 of 2 Elevated Storage tanks
are also unused.

For purposes of this document, EOM will showcase the state of Well House_1. Located at the
Intersection of Appleby Road and and Antim Street. This location will need heavy clean up and
repairs. EOM will work together with Port Wentworth to expedite return of this facility to
acceptable working order.

• Current issues at Well _1

o Pump is not wired to power supply.
o Segment of discharge piping needs to be repaired.
o Chlorine System Status unknown- Needs to be Assessed

Lift Stations inspections are

being performed per Industry
standards and EOM will provide
the City with a full-report once all
Annual and Electrical/Mechanical
Inspections are complete.

City-wide Lift Stations_ City of Port Wentworth (Asset List from CMMS)
Section 10
CONCLUSION

What is a Consent Order?

In the past year the City of Port Wentworth has received (2) Consent Orders from the Georgia
Environmental Protection Division. A consent order is a formal enforcement action initiated by the
Director of the Environmental Protection Division and the State of Georgia for ongoing
environmental violations that have not been corrected. Legal efforts are necessary to bring
government entities into compliance with environmental law.

Within the Order is an explanation of the nature of the problem, actions necessary to correct the
problem, and a settlement amount or fine. The consent order proposed in September of 2022
would be the second, if enforced, within one-year. The previous consent order, executed on
December 31, 2021, was in response to repeated sewage spills and surpassed permit limits. It
required creation of a corrective action plan as well as a $2500.00 fine. The current proposed
consent order appears to be for the same violations only this time there is an increased fine of
$7000.00. Continued violations will escalate penalty from the state and result in additional
enforcement action.

Asset Management
Functioning critical infrastructure is vital to maintaining the public health, safety, and confidence
of citizens in their communities. With aging infrastructure, increasing costs, population growth,
and escalating demands from regulatory agencies, it is becoming increasingly important to
manage resources efficiently and effectively. EOM’s Asset Management Program provides an
organization-wide framework to systematically evaluate, monitor, prioritize, coordinate, and
execute the activities of the utility to ensure cost-effective and long-term sustainability.
Through our proactive maintenance approach, we provide our clients with systematic inspections,
coordinated schedules and performance-indicator tracking to produce tangible data on
equipment maintenance and repair history. This data allows our clients to monitor the condition of
their assets, the probability of their failure, and the magnitude of impact on the community.

Features of EOM’s customized experience relevant to the City of Port Wentworth project include:
▪ Web Based Application: Is user friendly, highly mobile, and allows technical specialists and regional
workforce remote access to the system while using only an internet connection.
▪ Trackable Service Requests: City staff and citizens can enter requests for service, have an electronic
record, and track the status of a request.
▪ Asset Hierarchy/Asset Management: Establish asset hierarchies, track maintenance history on assets,
and prioritize work.
▪ Work Order Prioritization and Scheduling: A powerful work-order management module that allows
tracking of time, materials, schedules, dates, and responsiveness. Flexibility to control when work
orders should be triggered. For triggered PM’s, scheduled activity includes procedures, pass/fail
inspections, personnel assignments, and other required data.
▪ Critical Spare Parts and Inventory: Identification and tracking of critical components and parts that
must be on hand as determined through analysis of the probability and consequences of failure.
Develops a site-specific spare parts list that is maintained for preparedness in the event of an
unexpected event or emergency.
▪ Reporting: Auto-generate and email reports on a pre-set schedule to managers, clients, or stakeholders,
providing maintenance transparency.
Glossary
Aerobic Wastewater Treatment- Oxygen dependent wastewater treatment requiring the presence of
oxygen for aerobic bacterial breakdown of waste.
Bio-Air Scrubber- Bio-Trickling filter combined with adsorbing polishing media which removes organic and
inorganic odors.
Biosolids- Rich organic material leftover from aerobic wastewater treatment, essentially dewatered sludge
that can be re-used.
Blower- Mechanized device that is used to generate air to provide for aeration processes within the
wastewater plant to promote aerobic digestion and to keep solids suspended which is necessary for a
proper treatment ecosystem.
BOD- Biochemical Oxygen Demand. Since oxygen is required in the breakdown or decomposition process
of wastewater, its "demand" or BOD, is a measure of the concentration of organics in the wastewater.
Coagulation- Coagulation is a somewhat simple chemical process that involves bringing insoluble materials
together by manipulating the charges of particles, by adding iron or aluminum salts, such as PAC to a
wastewater stream. The primary purpose of using a coagulant besides removing vary fine particles from
suspension is that this process results also in less turbidity of the water, i.e. clearer water.
Composite Sample-Samples that are collected over time, either by continuous sampling or by mixing
discrete samples. A composite sample represents the average wastewater characteristics during the
compositing period.
Dewatered Biosolids/ Sludge- The sludge after dewatering that is cake like, compressed. The lower the
water content the better for wastewater treatment purposes
Denitrification- Biologically removing nitrate converting it to nitrogen gas
DO- The amount of oxygen dissolved in the water. Measured in milligrams per liter.
Effluent- The final output flow of a wastewater treatment plan.
Grit Removal- accomplished by providing an enlarged channel or chamber that causes the flow velocity to
be reduced and allows the heavier grit to settle to the bottom of the channel where it can be removed.
Headworks- The beginning of the treatment plant where the influent begins treatment.
Influent- The untreated wastewater or raw sewage coming into a wastewater treatment plant.
MCC- A motor control center (MCC) is an assembly to control some or all electric motors in a central location.
It consists of multiple enclosed sections having a common power bus and with each section containing a
combination starter, which in turn consists of motor starter, fuses or circuit breaker, and power disconnect.
MGD- Million Gallons per Day - 694.4 gallons per minute
PAC- Poly-aluminum Chloride (PAC) is one of the most efficient water treatment chemicals utilized today.
It is widely used in both potable water and wastewater treatment because it provides high coagulation
efficiency, and it has the widest pH and temperature application ranges compared to other water
treatment chemicals.
pH- A measure of acidity or alkalinity of water, or any given substance. The scale is 1 to 14 with 7 being
neutral. Over 7 is alkaline or caustic, under 7 is acid or base.
Preventative Maintenance- the act of performing regularly scheduled and routine maintenance activities
of equipment and assets to help prevent unexpected failures and long-term operating costs.
SBR- Sequential Batch Reactors are a type of activated sludge process for the treatment of wastewater in
batches utilizing cycles of aeration and settling to achieve a proper balance of nutrients and clarification.
SCADA- Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition system is the computerized controls for the plant which
monitor and control all mechanical and electrical processes.
Screen/ Screening (Mechanical Fine Screen & Bar Screen)- A device used to retain or remove suspended or
floating objects in wastewater. The screen has openings that are generally uniform in size. It retains or
removes objects larger that the opening. A screen may consist of bars, rods, wires, gratings, wire mesh, or
perforated plates. It may be mechanical or stationary.
Secondary Treatment- wastewater treatment process used to convert dissolved or suspended materials
into a form more readily separated from the water being treated. It usually follows primary treatment by
sedimentation.
Septic- A condition produced by bacteria when all oxygen supplies are depleted. If severe, the bottom
deposits produce hydrogen sulfide gas, turn black, give off foul odors, and the water has a greatly increased
oxygen and chlorine demand. It is a indication of an upset process.
Sludge- The solid waste material which settles out in the wastewater treatment process, sometimes
biosolids. Can be dewatered and reused or disposed
TSS- Total Suspended Solids. As the name implies, the total solid particles that are suspended (as opposed
to dissolved) in the wastewater. TSS must be filtered out, flocculated, digested and so on for removal in the
treatment of wastewater. Though not necessarily pollutants TSS is considered to be a measure of pollutants
in water by the EPA in the US.
Turbidity- A measure of how clear water is in Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU), invisible to the average
naked eye until readings in excess of 100 are reached, typically determined by shining light through a
sample placed in a turbidimeter.
UV- Ultraviolet Disinfection. The use of ultraviolet light to kills bacteria and other microorganisms in water
and wastewater. Typically, a final treatment step.
Wastewater- Wastewater is "used" water, the water leftover after its use in numerous application such as
industrial, agricultural, municipal, domestic and on