Located in the fertile heart of California’s San Joaquin Valley, Stockton is a bustling city known for its vital role as a transportation hub. With a population of over 320,000 and a sprawling 64.8 square miles, Stockton’s Regional Wastewater Control Facility (RWCF) works tirelessly to process up to 33 million gallons of wastewater each day. Managing such a large volume demands not only robust infrastructure but also smart, cost-effective solutions, especially when it comes to maintaining critical equipment like sewage pumps and mixers.
The Challenge: Efficient Lifting Solutions for Critical Maintenance
One of the key challenges faced by the RWCF was finding a cost-efficient yet highly effective way to lift multiple sewage pumps and mixers out of several wastewater tanks for routine maintenance. These heavy-duty components require reliable hoisting that minimizes downtime and labor costs while withstanding the harsh environmental conditions typical of wastewater treatment plants.
Thern Solution: Smart and Flexible
To meet this challenge, the RWCF selected four Thern Commander portable davit cranes, designed with powder-coated and stainless-steel finishes. These finishes provide outstanding resistance to extreme climate variations and the corrosive conditions typical of wastewater facilities.
Strategically placed across the site are 14 heavy-duty fixed bases, allowing facility staff to transport the cranes easily between locations as needed. This innovative setup eliminates the need to invest in multiple stationary crane systems, driving significant cost savings. Setup is fast, safe, and user-friendly, which in turn enhances operational efficiency.
Real Results: Supporting Infrastructure Upgrades and Environmental Goals
Thern’s portable davit cranes perfectly support RWCF’s ongoing infrastructure upgrades designed to meet stringent new effluent limits for nitrogen. This includes new aeration basins and secondary clarifiers essential for reducing nitrogen discharge. By supplementing their existing Thern pump hoists and mixer lifts with additional crane bases, Stockton’s wastewater treatment facility maximizes equipment use while improving maintenance workflows.
Through these strategic investments, Stockton is rehabilitating its aging wastewater infrastructure to reduce nitrogen pollution and enhance water quality in the California Delta, showcasing how intelligent equipment choices can drive powerful environmental benefits.
Why Portable Lifting Solutions Matter in Wastewater Treatment
Portable lifting equipment like Thern’s davit cranes provides wastewater facilities with flexibility, durability, and cost efficiency. By enabling easy movement and quick setup, these solutions help plants optimize maintenance, extend equipment life, and meet evolving regulatory standards, which are key factors in sustainable wastewater management.
If you have any questions on how your facility can benefit from a similar system or want some expert insights, get in touch with our experts.
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