As part of the surface water treatment process, the Surface Water Treatment Plant utilizes two centrifuges for the dewatering of sludge prior to disposal. The centrifuges are manufactured by Andritz Separation Inc. and are the sole source vendor for all of the replacement parts, accessories, and services.

Earlier this year, the plant operator observed one of the centrifuges smoking during normal plant operations. As a result, the plant operator immediately shut the centrifuge down and notified the plant maintenance staff. Public Works staff performed an inspection, finding that the belts had burned. Staff replaced the belts and checked the shafts and motors for any visible damage. Upon restarting the centrifuge, an alarm was issued due to high vibration of the unit. The unit was later serviced and inspected by the manufacturer to troubleshoot the issue. It was determined the heat exchanger failed, allowing water to enter the oil reservoir and causing rust to the bearings.

In August of 2020, the failed centrifuge was removed and sent to the manufacturer, Andritz Separation Inc., for repair at their facility in Paris, TX.  After disassembly and inspection, Andritz Separation Inc. submitted their findings and provided a report with an estimate of $84,587.25 for the repair of the centrifuge. Funding is available in the surface water operations repair and maintenance account.

The Public Works staff recommends award of a contract with Andritz Separation Inc., in the amount of $84,587.25 for of the repair one of the Surface Water Treatment Plant centrifuges.