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BRITISH STANDARD

Sewerage
Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

Part 2: Guide to pumping stations and

pumping mains

UDC 628.213

BS 8005-2:
1987

BS 8005-2:1987

Committees responsible for this

British Standard
The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by the Civil
Engineering and Building Structures Standards Committee (CSB/-) to
Technical Committee CSB/5, upon which the following bodies were
represented:

The following bodies were also represented

This British Standard, having
through subcommittees and panels:
been prepared under the
direction of the Civil Engineering
and Building Structures
British Effluent and Water Association
Standards Committee, was
published under the authority of British Pump Manufacturers Association
the Board of BSI and
comes into effect on
31 December 1987
BSI 02-2000

Amendments issued since publication

First published as CP 2005
December 1968
First Part revision as BS 8005-2
December 1987
The following BSI references
relate to the work on this
standard:
Committee reference CSB/5
Draft for comment 84/11182 DC
ISBN 0 580 15992 2

Amd. No.

Date of issue

Comments

in the drafting of the standard,

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

Association of Consulting Engineers

Association of County Councils
Association of District Councils
British Ceramic Research Ltd.
British Coal
British Plastics Federation
British Precast Concrete Federation Ltd.
British Tunnelling Society
Clay Pipe Development Association Limited
Concrete Pipe Association
Construction Industry Research and Information Association
Convention of Scottish Local Authorities
County Surveyors Society
Department of the Environment (Property Services Agency)
Department of Transport (Highways)
Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors
Fibre Cement Manufacturers Association Limited
Health and Safety Executive
Hydraulics Research Station Ltd.
Institute of Water Pollution Control
Institution of Civil Engineers
Institution of Environmental Health Officers
Institution of Public Health Engineers
Institution of Structural Engineers
Institution of Water Engineers and Scientists
Royal Institute of British Architects
Scottish Development Department
Trades Union Congress
Water Authorities Association
Water Research Centre

BS 8005-2:1987

Contents

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

Committees responsible
Foreword
Section 1. General
1
Scope
2
Definitions
3
Abbreviations

1
1
1

Section 2. Range of components and appliances

4
General
5
Pumps
6
Prime movers and drives
7
Controls and electrical equipment
8
Pipework and valves
9
Miscellaneous

2
2
3
5
7
8

Section 3. Design of pumping stations

10 General
11 Health, safety and welfare design features
12 Maximum and minimum pumping rates
13 Pumping heads
14 Number and size of pumpsets
15 Layout of pumpsets, pipework, control equipment
and ancillary plant
16 Substructure design
17 Wet wells
18 Ventilation, smell and noise
19 Lifting facilities
20 Superstructure
21 Environment and access
Section 4. Design of pumping mains
22 Velocities of flow
23 Diameter
24 Number of mains
25 Pressures
26 Valves
27 Profiles
28 Discharge arrangements
29 Anchorages
30 Control of septicity
Publications referred to

BSI 02-2000

Page
Inside front cover
ii

9
9
9
9
10
11
12
12
13
13
14
14
15
15
15
15
16
16
16
16
17
Inside back cover

BS 8005-2:1987

Foreword

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii,
pages 1 to 18, an inside back cover and a back cover.
This standard has been updated (see copyright date) and may have had
amendments incorporated. This will be indicated in the amendment table on the
inside front cover.
1) In

ii

preparation.
BSI 02-2000

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

This British Standard has been prepared under the direction of the Civil
Engineering and Building Structures Standards Committee and is directed at
general engineering practitioners who may either be embarking on a career in
sewerage or be dealing with a particular aspect for the first time. It is not
intended to be exhaustive in any field but sets out to present guidance on basic
principles and good practice, indicating where a more detailed and
comprehensive study may be made. BS 8005 supersedes and enhances
CP 2005:1968, which is withdrawn, although some of the material incorporated
is a restatement or a revision of the earlier text.
BS 8005 gives guidance on the planning, design, construction, operation and
maintenance of works to convey sewage, including storm sewage, surface water
and trade effluents to a sewage treatment works, tidal waters or other final place
of disposal. Recommendations are given for the repair, renovation and
replacement of sewers.
Many end users of this British Standard, such as governments, public
authorities, sewerage authorities and consultants, issue their own
recommendations and specifications for sewerage which BS 8005 is intended to
complement rather than replace.
BS 8005-0 directs the reader to sources of more detailed information, particularly
on important and specialized fields such as health and safety. It should be
regarded as supplying essential background information for the other Parts of
BS 8005.
BS 8005 is to be published in six separate Parts, as follows.
Part 0, Introduction and guide to data sources and documentation;
Part 1, Guide to new sewerage construction;
Part 2, Guide to pumping stations and pumping mains;
Part 3, Guide to sewers in tunnel1);
Part 4, Guide to design and construction of outfalls;
Part 5, Guide to rehabilitation of sewers1).
It has been noted that substantial one-part codes and guides take a long time to
revise and if they are reviewed at infrequent intervals, they tend to become out of
date quickly, especially in a field where technological development is rapid. It is
intended therefore to keep a constant watch on new developments and to update
BS 8005, Part by Part, as soon as the work can be justified.
BS 8301 sets out recommendations for building drainage and, while it relates
generally to smaller pipelines, there is some overlap between it and BS 8005.
BS 6297 gives recommendations for the design and installation of small sewage
treatment works and cesspools.
Apart from Part 0, which is directed more specifically at the UK sewerage field,
BS 8005 is for use both in the UK and, in appropriate circumstances, overseas.
Suggestions for the improvement of any Part of BS 8005 will be welcomed by the
Secretary of CSB/5 at 2 Park Street, London W1A 2BS.
A British Standard dose not purport to include all the necessary provision of a
contract. Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.

BS 8005-2:1987

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

Section 1. General
1 Scope

2 Definitions

This Part of BS 8005 provides guidance on the

components, appliances and design of pumping
stations and pumping mains.

For the purposes of this Part of BS 8005 the

definitions given in BS 8005-0 apply.

NOTE The titles of the publications referred to in this standard

are listed on the inside back cover.
The titles of British Standards not referred to in this Part
of BS 8005 but of interest as dealing with closely associated
subjects are listed in Appendix A of BS 8005-1:1987.
Other publications that may be of interest are listed
in Appendix B of BS 8005-1:1987.

BSI 02-2000

3 Abbreviations
For the purposes of this Part of BS 8005 the
abbreviations given in BS 8005-1 apply.

BS 8005-2:1987

Section 2. Range of components and appliances

4 General

5 Pumps
5.1 General
Pumps for handling sewage should be unchokeable
and wear resisting. They may be divided broadly
into four groups: rotodynamic; reciprocating;
pneumatic and Archimedean screw.
(See also BS 6297.)
5.2 Rotodynamic pumps
Rotodynamic pumps are relatively cheap to buy, of
small overall dimensions in relation to capacity,
light in weight and can be arranged vertically or
horizontally. They may vary from moderate to high
efficiency according to the size of the pump, type of
impeller and the head/quantity characteristic of the
duty to be performed. All types of rotodynamic
pumps afford a high degree of flexibility. Both
quantity and head can be varied by changing the
speed and/or diameter of the impeller.
When two or more pumps are required to discharge
in parallel to a common rising main the
head/quantity characteristics should be studied in
order to obtain stable conditions and a good overall
efficiency.
This important group of pumps is divided into three
types.
a) The centrifugal pump. The capacity of
traditional dry well centrifugal pumps for
reasonably economic working may vary from a
minimum of about 7 L/s up to 700 L/s and more,
with heads varying from 3 m to about 45 m. With
small to medium capacities the pump should be of
the unchokeable type wherein any solid, up to a
maximum of about a 100 mm sphere, that may
enter the pump suction will be passed through
the pump.

BSI 02-2000

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

The type and size of sewage pumping stations and

equipment depend upon their duties, location and
any special operational requirements, such as
remote or automatic control. This section covers the
main range of components, whilst methods of
installation and housing are dealt with in section 3.
Components and appliances are required to be
reliable, robust, easy to maintain and appropriate
for pumping water and other liquids. In addition,
the aggressive nature of sewage, with its variable
solid content and possibility of toxicity and explosive
gases, calls for a high degree of caution and the
adoption of the latest safeguards to meet all possible
hazards.

The recessed impeller type of centrifugal pump

(also called vortex or torque flow pumps),
although of lower efficiency, is less likely to be
affected by fibrous material and can be easier to
open up for maintenance.
Submersible centrifugal sewage pumps are
available for a similar range of duties, either as
stationary submerged units or as transportable
submersible installations. They are self-priming
with both pump and motor totally submersible
and are accordingly suited for use in wet wells or
in dry wells where there is a flooding risk.
Cooling is a problem in a dry well and special
design precautions may be necessary. The
discharge connection of the pump is adaptable
for either a flexible hose or static pipework, and
the electric motors are available certified for use
in a hazardous area in accordance with BS 5345.
For wet well installations submersible
centrifugal pump units are available which will
slide down guides and seat automatically on the
permanent discharge connection. The weight of
the pump forces the mating flanges into contact
thus providing a seal on the discharge side.
Centrifugal disintegrator pumps may be used to
assist the treatment of the sewage. Running and
maintenance costs are higher, especially if they
are on a combined sewerage system where there
is a high content of grit in the sewage.
b) The mixed flow pump. The mixed flow pump is
more efficient where the volume of sewage to be
pumped is large and where the head lies in the
range of 6 m to 18 m.
c) The axial flow or propeller-type pump. The
axial flow pump is suitable where large volumes
of sewage have to be pumped against low heads.
The above pump classifications are generalized and,
in particular, the mixed flow design of impeller
overlaps the head ranges of both axial and straight
centrifugal pumps. Many modern design
unchokeable pumps have mixed flow impellers but
are of relatively low efficiency. High efficiency
centrifugal pumps, mixed flow pumps and axial flow
pumps should only be installed in association with
preliminary screening or the reduction of the
coarser suspended solids.
For very small flows a small high efficiency
centrifugal pump can be used as part of a sewage
diverter where the coarser solids are prevented from
passing through the pump.

BS 8005-2:1987

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

5.3 Reciprocating pumps

The reciprocating pump is heavy and of large
dimensions in relation to its capacity. It is reliable,
efficient when first installed, and is capable of
operating with a high suction lift and of discharging
against very high heads. It is susceptible to choking,
heavy wear and tear, and loss of efficiency through
wear and valve jamming. The reciprocating pump
may be either of single-acting or double-acting type.
Reciprocating pumps are more expensive in first
cost than other types. They are expensive to
maintain and therefore are rarely used for pumping
crude sewage. Preliminary screening of sewage to
remove large solids is advisable.
As a safeguard against excessive pressure a bypass
is often provided between delivery and suction. This
should be combined with a pressure relief valve. An
alternative is to relieve the discharge to the suction
well.
A reciprocating pump requires a slow speed drive;
this is provided through gearing between the prime
mover and the pump. A steady rated discharge is
maintained over a wide variation in head. Discharge
is altered by varying the speed.
5.4 Pneumatic pumps
The pneumatic ejector, whether of the automatically
filled vessel or the air lift type, is suitable where
reliability and ease of maintenance are of greater
importance than overall efficiency, and where a
small quantity of sewage is to be pumped against a
relatively small head.
The installation usually comprises an ejector
together with an automatic self-starting air
compressor, with provision for air storage. In special
situations two ejectors should be provided to
facilitate repairs; where breakdown would have
serious results, a second air compressor should be
provided. It is possible to serve several ejector
stations from one central air compressing station if
the distances are not too great.
5.5 Archimedean screw pumps
Archimedean screw pumps are basically screws
revolving at a fixed speed. They provide a steady
rate of pumping and high efficiency over a wide
range of flows and are also effective in pumping
varying flows. They are suitable for lifting large
volumes of unscreened sewage or storm water
against low heads.
The actual volume lifted for any particular diameter
is dependent on the speed of rotation and on the
angle of inclination; the greater the angle the less
the rate of discharge. The angle of inclination varies
from a minimum of 27 to the horizontal to a
maximum of 40. The preferred angle is 38.

BSI 02-2000

Archimedean screw pumps are in two main groups,

namely open-screw and encased-screw. Neither
group requires a deep sump. While the open-screw
types are virtually unchokeable, in certain
applications it is advantageous to install a coarse
bar screen at the inlet to prevent large objects, such
as baulks of timber, from entering the screw. A
higher degree of protection is required for the
encased-screw pumps.
Capacities of Archimedean screw pumps cover a
very wide range varying, depending on diameter
and inclination, from 7 L/s up to about 10 000 L/s.

6 Prime movers and drives

6.1 General
The prime movers normally employed for driving
sewage pumping plant are electric motors and
internal combustion engines (diesel, dual fuel or
petrol). They should be suitable for the types of
pumps selected and rated for operational conditions.
The choice may depend upon the availability of
electricity or a fuel supply. Due consideration
should be given to capital, running and
maintenance costs in selecting either electricity or
fuel, together with the effect of possible interruption
of supply from outside influences such as shortage,
mechanical breakdown and supply difficulties.
Where necessary, explosion-proof units should be
used. Fire detection and alarm systems in all
buildings should comply with BS 5839-1.
Electricity is normally adopted as the cleanest and
most convenient form of motive power. In the
UK 415 V 3-phase supply is normal for motors up to
about 150 kW to 200 kW, whilst 3.3 kV or higher
voltage is often used for larger motors. Direct
current (d.c.) drive is occasionally adopted, either by
rectifying from the a.c. grid supply or by local
generation from internal combustion engines.
Standby electricity supply in case of breakdown is
frequently provided by a second feeder from a
different substation or by switching to diesel
generating plant situated locally or mounted on a
vehicle.
6.2 Electric motors
The electric motor is a convenient, cheap and
reliable prime mover for all types of sewage
pumping. Varieties of electric motor are available to
suit the particular conditions of duty to be
performed.
As automatic controls have been developed to a high
degree of reliability, an electric motor is particularly
suitable for an unattended automatically operated
station.

BS 8005-2:1987

d) Direct current motor. The d.c. motor may be

used with advantage for variable speed
applications. Starting methods are simple and it
has a good starting performance and high
efficiency over a wide range of duties. However,
maintenance and prime cost are more expensive
than with a.c. motors.
Where a wide range of pumping duties is required,
it may be more economical in respect of capital
and/or energy costs to use motors with two
(or possibly three) speeds or a larger number of
constant speed pumping units controlled in an
optimum sequence depending on flow or level
control strategy.
6.3 Internal combustion engine
The following are the more usual types of internal
combustion engine.
a) Diesel engine. The diesel engine is a reliable,
efficient type of prime mover. The medium and
slow speed units generally have longer lives and
are heavy; they require heavy foundations and
relatively more space. The high speed units are
efficient, compact and light but generally have a
shorter life; they are not so expensive (in capital
costs), nor do they require heavy foundations.
High speed units are, however, often noisy.
The slow and medium speed units can be
operated automatically but they usually need the
regular attendance of a skilled staff. High speed
units are suitable for automatic operation, but
need more highly skilled maintenance to ensure
reliability.
b) Dual fuel engine. Sewage gas, a by-product of
sewage purification, is an economical fuel for dual
fuel engines. These engines can also be operated
efficiently on diesel.
c) Petrol engine. The petrol engine is rarely
adopted as a form of prime mover at a permanent
sewage pumping station owing to the
comparatively high cost of fuel and maintenance.
Portable pumps are sometimes powered by petrol
engines.
Suitable arrangements should be made for the safe
handling of flammable liquids and for the safe
ventilation of combustion products, particularly
where mobile plant is involved.
6.4 Drives
Electric motors (either horizontally or vertically
mounted) and internal combustion engines can be
arranged to drive most types of pumps, by one of the
following means.

BSI 02-2000

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

The following are the more usual types of electric

motor used for sewage pumping.
a) Squirrel cage induction motor. This type of
motor is the simplest and most robust in design
for use on alternating current (a.c.) supplies. It is
commonly used for single speed applications but
can be wound for multi-speed operation, dual
speed windings being fairly common. Other
motor speed variations are available.
Starting the motor direct on line demands a high
starting current from the supply, and other
methods of starting such as star-delta,
autotransformer, or electronic soft start, may
have to be considered in order to reduce the high
starting current from the supply (and its cost)
and satisfy the requirements of the supply
authority.
Care should be taken when selecting reduced
current methods of starting that the motor
accelerating torque matches the pump
characteristics.
This type of motor is suitable for electronic
methods of speed control.
Many types of power electronic drive equipment
are available to enable the squirrel cage
induction motor to be considered as an
alternative to motors under items b), c)and d).
The main types are as follows:
1) voltage controlled invertors;
2) current controlled invertors;
3) pulse width modulated invertors;
4) variable voltage at constant frequency.
b) Wound rotor induction motor. This type of
motor has a wound rotor and can have a lower
starting current than the squirrel cage motor. It
is suitable for speed control by means of external
resistors, usually contained in the control
equipment. It is normally only used where the
speed control is small and applied for short
periods. The motor efficiency is less at reduced
speeds.
c) Synchronous induction motor. This type of
motor runs at a fixed speed independent of the
load, the speed being determined by the
frequency of the supply and the number of poles
in the motor.
Normally it has good efficiency and power factor
and may attract favourable terms from the
supply authority. However, a separate d.c.
supply is required for exciting windings and the
starting performance is poor.

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

BS 8005-2:1987

a) Direct coupling. Direct coupling of the pump to

the prime mover through a suitable flexible
coupling, or occasionally through a clutch, is
normal for horizontal shaft pumps and vertically
mounted pumps.
b) Geared drive. A gear box may be inserted to
reduce or increase the pump speed in relation to
the prime mover speed, or to change the direction
of the drive from horizontal to vertical.
c) Belt drive. Belt drive, with a flat, V-section or
toothed belt, can be used in place of geared drive,
where space permits. This may be less costly.
d) Direct drives. Electro-submersible pumps
usually have the impeller mounted directly on to
an extended shaft of the electric motor. They may
be mounted vertically or horizontally. Very large
units may, however, have an intermediate gear
box between the motor shaft and the impeller
drive shaft.
e) Intermediate shafting. Shafting, either
horizontal or vertical, connecting the prime
mover or gear box to the pump, normally needs to
be supported by intermediate bearings
(efficiently lubricated). Shafting and bearings
need to be stiff enough to ensure steady running
without whip, and flexible couplings should be
provided to allow for any misalignment.
The prime mover, the gearbox (if required) and the
pump can sometimes be mounted on a combined
base unit. This arrangement reduces the
installation time, and maintenance can be
economical.
Control equipment for the drive units should always
be placed above ground. When equipment is placed
below ground, the dampness will shorten its life,
make it unreliable in operation, and in certain
stations, especially where flammable gas may be
present, make it a hazard and is likely to make it a
serious source of ignition leading to explosion.

7 Controls and electrical equipment

7.1 General
Most electrically driven pumps are controlled
automatically; manual control is now exceptional.
Diesel driven pumps can be controlled
automatically but this may be unnecessary if they
are at a station which is always attended. The
design policy on control equipment should be agreed
with the user, who may wish to have similar
equipment at several stations in one operating area.
The equipment should, wherever possible, be
capable of adjustment after operational experience.

BSI 02-2000

For all types of automatically controlled pumps it is

essential that an anti-roll-back device is
incorporated in the drive arrangement. The lower
fixed bearing is invariably under water and a return
oil lubrication coupled with three seals is
recommended to minimize wear on the lower
bearing.
7.2 Controls
Usually the control of pumps is based on a liquid
level, the operation of a pump starter being
activated by the closing of electrical control circuits.
Various devices are used, e.g.:
a) floats;
b) electrodes;
c) air pressure discharge bubblers;
d) ultrasonic beams;
e) photoelectric light beams;
f) flow rate detectors (not necessarily related to
liquid level);
g) pressure transducers.
The selection of a suitable system for a particular
station is a combination of suitability of proprietary
equipment and the experience and preferences of a
designer. It is important to design for easy
accessibility and maintenance of the equipment.
Standby equipment should be considered and also
alarms to indicate failure. The use of telephone and
radio alarm and information systems at remote
unattended stations is often justified.
A control system for an installation of electric motor
driven pumps usually automatically operates the
motor starter to a pre-determined sequence. The
system should provide for the sequence to be varied
either automatically or manually, e.g. so that one
pump can be the duty pump for a period, and then
another. It can be simple, such as a float which
directly closes and opens a switch in a starter, or
complex, such as a series of detectors with relays
and a mini-computer to deal with a range of variable
speed pumps. The alternatives that are available
provide variations in flexibility, together with
safeguards and economy of operation. A selector
switch should select automatic or manual operation.
Except at small stations, it may be desirable to
include time delay equipment in the control scheme
to ensure sequential starting of pumps after a power
failure. This avoids an excessive momentary
electrical load that might otherwise arise in this
exceptional circumstance.

BS 8005-2:1987

7.3 Electrical equipment

7.4 Telemetry
The purpose of any telemetry system is to provide
operational and management data to a remote
management centre and, in selected cases, to
provide the facility for override control of the plant
from the management centre.
Telemetry systems usually cover a sewage
treatment works and any pumping stations within
its catchment.

BSI 02-2000

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

Each motor starter needs to be suitable for frequent

duty and should be appropriately rated to the motor
it controls. It should incorporate a suitably rated
externally operated means of isolation,
mechanically interlocked with its door. It should
have adjustable overload releases that lock-out the
equipment, with time lags, and an inherent no-volt
release which should be such that the motor will
re-start automatically on the resumption of voltage
following power failure. In the event of the motor
tripping out on overload, consideration should be
given to having a reset button for manual reset.
Automatic reset of the overloads is not considered
desirable. Other features are high rupturing
capacity back-up fuses of suitable rating on each
phase, control circuit fuses and contacts for
operation by the control gear. It is usual to provide
indicating lights showing supply on and motor
energized. Emergency stop push buttons should be
provided at the starter and at points of possible
danger such as near the motor and near the pump.
Pump starters should be linked to a flow monitor,
load monitor or non-return valve, through a time
delay, to shut down a pump in the event of blockage.
Anti-condensation heaters may be provided in
starter enclosures, possibly thermostatically
controlled, and also in the motors. In larger motors
thermal devices may be justified to open the starter
controls in the event of overheating.
Individual starters and other electrical items can be
wall mounted in their own enclosures. However, at
medium and large stations it may be more
satisfactory to provide a floor mounted panel for all
the electrical gear, including the incoming supply
circuit breakers, electrical meters and distribution
equipment. A composite panel should be arranged
so that an individual unit can be isolated for
maintenance while the other units remain live and
in operation. It is essential that each isolation
switch be capable of being padlocked in the off
position.

The minimum data required is such that, at the

management centre, decisions can be made,
especially during out of normal hours periods,
whether or not to commit limited manpower
resources for immediate attendance at the pumping
station to rectify operational problems or plant
breakdowns.
Information required from each pumping station
can range from the transmission of a single high
level alarm for very small automatic pumping
stations, to full monitoring and individual alarms
such as those detailed for each of the following
items.
a) Pumps: Running, Failed, Stopped,
Off auto.
b) Electricity supply: Mains failed,
Phase failed.
c) Standby generator (where installed):
Running, Failed, Stopped, Low fuel alarm.
d) Wet well: High level alarm.
e) Dry well: Flooding alarm.
f) Screen: Blockage alarm, Failure, High
differential level.
g) Storm overflow: Operating.
h) Intruder/fire: Alarms.
Depending on the application the following may also
be monitored.
1) Works inlet flow/discharge flow rates and
associated integrated totals.
2) Other qualitative and quantitative
information.
The means of data transmission can be via public
service telephone lines, own dedicated lines, radio or
other media (e.g. fibre optics, laser links) dependent
on system requirements and availability.
Consideration should be given in selecting the
transmission media to system requirements
(e.g. update times/scan rates), operating and
maintenance costs, data security and reliability,
expansion capability and the display and archiving
of operational and management information.
The telemetry equipment can be enhanced by local
automatic programmable control facilities of
various levels of sophistication, so as to provide data
logging and data processing functions required for
system optimization. Automatic or manual override
control through this equipment is possible from the
management centre.
Information on telemetry and computer control of
sewerage operations is obtainable from the Water
Authorities Association (WAA) and the Water
Research Centre (WRc).

BS 8005-2:1987

8 Pipework and valves

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

8.1 Pumping station pipes and joints

Pipework within pumping stations is usually of
ductile iron but grey iron, steel or plastics pipework
can be used. The pipework should be able to
withstand possible distortion due to jointing and
vibration and surge pressures.
Pipe joints within pumping stations are mostly
flanged. Detachable flexible couplings should be
interposed where they will facilitate dismantling
and accommodate vibration, but these do not
usually hold end thrust and long tie bolts may be
needed for bracing.
A closely spaced pair of flexible joints should be
provided on a pumping main immediately outside a
station to accommodate possible differential
settlement.
Provision of tappings on suction and delivery
pipework for permanent or temporary pressure
gauges should be considered.
8.2 Pumping main pipes and joints
The materials of pipes used for pumping mains
include ductile iron, steel, asbestos cement, GRP,
polyethylene, polybutylene, unplasticized PVC and,
occasionally, concrete. The class(es) of pipework
should be selected to withstand the maximum
hydraulic pressures (including surge pressures)
and, where applicable, external loadings. When
necessary pipelines should be protected against
corrosion, internally and externally. (See BS 8005-1
regarding materials and BS 1710 regarding colour
coding of services.)
Pipe joints for use below ground should preferably
be of the flexible type. If flanges are used on buried
pipes the fastenings should be specially protected.
Protection should be provided by galvanizing, by
wrapping with waterproof tape or by enclosing in
bitumen.
8.3 Valves
Pumps normally discharge through their own
non-return valves. One or more isolating valves
should be included in the installation. A non-return
valve may also be required on a pumping main. For
isolating and maintenance purposes the isolating
valve should be positioned downstream from the
non-return valve.

BSI 02-2000

The non-return valve, sometimes called a reflux or a

check valve, complying with BS 5153 prevents
backflow when pumping ceases. It should give a
clear flow when the flap is open to avoid
accumulation of rags. For this reason valves with
multiple flaps are not usually satisfactory. Seatings
for the flap and the hinge pin should be renewable
as they are subject to severe wear. An external lever
may be provided on the hinge pin so that the flap
can be opened manually, either in attempting to
clear a blockage or for backwashing or drainage. The
lever also gives a visual indication of the extent to
which the flap is open during pumping; this can be
adjusted by the addition of a counter-weight to the
lever. Slamming of non-return valves may take
place when a reversal of flow occurs before the flap
closes. Partial closing as the forward velocity of the
sewage diminishes and before the flow is reversed
can be assisted by the external lever arm and
counterweight.
A non-return valve should be easy to open for
maintenance. The casing should have an arrow cast
on to indicate direction of flow.
Isolating valves are normally sluice (or gate) valves
which are also used as washouts. An extensive
range is available. Wedge pattern gates with copper
alloy facings, or resilient seal gates, are usually
preferred. Some valves have inside non-rising
screws and some have rising screws which give a
clear indication whether the valve is open or closed.
Diaphragm isolating valves and ball and plug valves
are suitable for pumping installations handling raw
sewage but butterfly valves should be avoided as
rags in the sewage may cause blockages.
Sluice valves should preferably be sited with the
operating spindle either vertical or inclined at an
angle above the horizontal. If unavoidable, or if
chain operation is to be used, the spindle may be
horizontal but it should never be inclined below the
horizontal as solids can enter the bonnet and
interfere with operation.
The most economical operating arrangement is for
the handwheel of the isolating valve to be fixed on
the protruding stem of the valve. If access would
then be difficult the spindle can then be extended
(and cranked through gearing or universal joints if
necessary) to a conveniently situated headstock.
Valves usually close clockwise but this is not
universal and the direction of opening and closing
should be marked on each handwheel. A designation
label is also useful. Where valves may need to be left
in a partly opened state there should be a position
indicator.

BS 8005-2:1987

9 Miscellaneous
9.1 Pump protection
Sewage pumps are designed to handle solids and
consequently they are less efficient than pumps for
clean water. The solids vary in character and
include unexpected items which get into sewers and
become potential hazards. Rags are a frequent
source of trouble; grit may be a problem after
storms. Proprietary refinements in certain sewage
pumps are directed to reducing the risk of pump
blockage by solids.
In some circumstances special pumps or plant may
be provided to reduce the risk of failure of the
pumps. Special plant is usually unnecessary at a
small pumping station which is served by small
sewers. It should be considered for larger stations
where it is vital to maintain uninterrupted pumping
capacity. The character of the incoming sewage may
be a factor if it is known to have an unusual solids
content.
Coarse screens can be used to prevent large objects
and some solids from entering pumps. They always
collect rags and this, with the large objects, causes a
build-up which may restrict the sewage flow. The
screenings need to be removed, either manually or
by a machine, and either macerated and returned to
the flow or otherwise disposed of. Although the
plant can be automatic it will need attention and
maintenance. The selection of screening plant is a
matter of experience and judgement as there are
several basic types and refinements. If there is
doubt as to the need for a coarse screen, provision
can be made for its installation later after a period
of operational experience.
2)

Comminutors or macerators are occasionally

provided to protect pumps.
At outlying pumping stations, grit removal plant for
pump protection is an exception. If provided,
however, then some attendance will be required.
If grit deposits are likely to occur, sufficient to cause
problems with the pumping system, their build up
may be prevented by using water jets to lift the grit
into suspension to be pumped away with the
sewage.
With submersible or submerged pumping units,
additional equipment may be provided on the pump
which will allow re-circulation within the sump to
take place prior to the commencement of the
pumping cycle. This re-circulation will also assist in
putting the grit into suspension and will work
automatically without additional attendance.
In general, screening and grit removal is best
carried out at a sewage treatment plant and it
should be avoided at an outlying pumping station
unless essential. (See CIRIA Technical
Note 119: Screens and Grit in Sewage: Record,
treatment and disposal2).)
9.2 Overflow
Every pumping station should have an emergency
overflow system which will operate if there is a
complete failure of the pumping plant. The system
can be on the incoming sewer or at the pumping
station.
An emergency overflow of sewage could cause
nuisance, pollution, damage or flooding. On no
account should the dry well of a pumping station be
liable to flooding. The design of the station and its
overflow system should be such that repairs can
always be made to any plant that has failed.
9.3 Flow measurement
Flow measurement is rarely justified at a pumping
station but its absence may mean that it is not
possible to know the actual discharge rates or
quantities of sewage that are handled. The
importance of this information should therefore be
considered. All measurement devices require stable
hydraulic flow conditions and this is not usually
possible near pumps. The flow measuring apparatus
may therefore need to be some distance from the
pumping station.
Some pump control systems can be associated with
incoming flow measurement (e.g. at a flume). Flow
meters can be incorporated in pumping mains.

Obtainable from CIRIA, 6 Storeys Gate, London SW1P 3AU.

BSI 02-2000

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

Large valves may have a water jetting attachment

to allow for cleaning the bottom of the seating of
accumulated grit. Large valves on storm water
systems which may normally be closed can be
provided with electric, hydraulic or pneumatic
actuators for power opening and closing. A power
operated isolating valve can be used on a large
delivery main instead of separate non-return and
isolating valves. In the event of mains failure, power
operated valves will not close to stop backflow
unless alternative energy sources and additional
equipment are fitted.
Air release valves should be of a type suitable for
sewage, with adequate capacity for the passing of
air and gas produced during operation.
Rarely used valves should be operated at regular
(or biannual) intervals over their full distance of
travel.

BS 8005-2:1987

Section 3. Design of pumping stations

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

10 General
The type and size of pumping stations and pumps
depends on the pumping duties, the location,
whether the station will be attended, and the
preferences of the user and designer.
The conventional pumping station has a dry well for
pumps and other plant and a separate wet well,
usually housing some of the control equipment. The
roof of the dry well, which may extend partly or
wholly over the wet well, should be above ground
(and flood) level and serves as the floor of the
superstructure building for motors and electrical
equipment.
The building can include facilities for operators such
as a toilet, messroom and store. At large stations it
can also have a workshop and garage. Because of
possible smell and noise problems it is not usually
advisable to locate offices or amenity buildings at
pumping stations.
It may be possible and necessary to construct a
pumping station partly or wholly underground, for
instance to deter vandalism, but this calls for special
precautions in designing the substructure and in
observing health and safety requirements.
A screw pumping station is used to discharge into a
channel or gravity sewer and not into a pumping
main. The motors and control gear should be housed
and, if the screws are in the open, they should be
provided with removable safety covers.
Small pumping devices, such as ejectors, may have
an integral reception chamber and can therefore be
installed in basements rather than in separate
structures.

11 Health, safety and welfare design

features
It is essential when designing sewage pumping
stations and pumping mains to incorporate
necessary health, safety and welfare features to
comply with statutory requirements. In addition,
relevant recommendations from authoritative
bodies such as the Health and Safety Executive, the
British Standards Institution, the Trades Union
Congress and water supply industry codes of
practice should be carefully studied.
The scale of provision will depend on the numbers of
staff and the frequency of visits to the station.
Typical hazards are as follows:
a) falls of persons from heights, and into liquids
or on to moving machinery;
b) tripping or slipping on stairways, walkways or
other means of access;
c) falling or other travelling objects;

BSI 02-2000

d) inadequate levels of ventilation, particularly in

confined spaces (see clause 18);
e) combustion and explosion of flammable gases;
f) electrical shocks and burns;
g) faults in the installation and guarding of
machinery (see BS 5304);
h) excessive noise, vibration or fumes
(see clause 18).
The following equipment should be provided, as
appropriate:
1) first aid and rescue equipment;
2) emergency equipment and alarms;
3) telephone and/or radio communication;
4) toilet and washing facilities;
5) facilities for the changing and storage of
clothes and for the storage of tools and
equipment;
6) meal and office facilities.
For small pumping stations the design could provide
for the use of a specially equipped vehicle to
incorporate some of the above facilities.

12 Maximum and minimum pumping

rates
The maximum discharge rate from a pumping
station, when all the duty pumps and pumping
mains are in use, should be equal to, or preferably
greater than, the maximum design rate of flow to
the station. The minimum pumping rate should
achieve a self-cleansing rate of flow in the pumping
main(s). At a large station the minimum pumping
rate may be governed by an assumed minimum flow
to the station.
For a small station, with one constant speed duty
pump, the pumping rate will be intermittent and
may be unrelated to the rate of flow to the station.
Pumping will also be intermittent at multi-pump
stations whenever the flow to the station is less than
the minimum pumping rate.
At medium and large stations, the station discharge
can be kept approximately equal to the rate of flow
of the incoming sewage by the adoption of variable
speed pumps. This is not possible at small stations
with constant speed pumps.

13 Pumping heads
For a selected pumping rate the total pumping head
(or pressure) comprises the static lift, the friction in
the pumping main, the friction through the pumps
and station pipework and valves and the entry and
exit head losses.

BS 8005-2:1987

14 Number and size of pumpsets

10

BSI 02-2000

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

The selection of the type of pumps, and their sizes

and numbers depends, among other things, on the
desired maximum and minimum pumping rates and
on the need, or otherwise, to control the variations
in the rate of discharge from the station.
A station with one constant speed duty pump should
normally have a second pump to provide 100 %
standby. This may be the most economical
arrangement as far as pumping plant and electrical
power is concerned, but it will result in intermittent
discharge.
If the pumping main velocities are satisfactory, a
station can have one variable or one two-speed duty
pump and a similar standby pump. This would
reduce the flow fluctuation but the electrical plant
would cost more; it would be less efficient
electrically than a constant speed installation. An
alternative is to have two constant speed duty
pumps discharging to the one pumping main, with a
similar pump as standby; this installation can be
further refined by the provision of variable or
two-speed motors.
To maintain acceptable velocities and reasonable
friction losses, the individual suction and delivery
pipe legs are, in many cases, larger than the pumps.
The taper piece required on the delivery side should
be included immediately at the pump branch before
the non-return valve. Tapering on the suction side
should be fitted between the sluice valve and the
pump and should be of level soffit pattern. Tapers
should be selected to give good velocity profiles
particularly at inlet, and any bends should, where
possible, be of long radius.
If the friction in a pumping main is significant, no
more than two similar pumps should discharge
simultaneously into a single pumping main. The
additional output from a third pump into the same
main could be quite small. If greater flexibility of
discharge is desired, two sets of two duty pumps and
one standby, each with its own delivery pumping
main, might be appropriate. When the amount of
storm water is significant one set might use larger
pumps than the other.
When two pumps discharge to a pumping main
where the friction head is significant the maximum
duty is their combined discharge. When one pump is
operating (at the same speed) it will deliver more
than half of this discharge. Hence head/output
calculations (using the pump characteristic curves)
are needed before the duty of a single pump can be
assessed.

Commercially available pumps should be selected,

and familiarity with the range of duties of typical
pumps is therefore necessary. The friction head
calculations involve several assumptions and
cannot be precise. The selected installation may
have a capacity that is different (often greater) from
that intended. If this is likely to be a serious
impediment to the scheme, arrangements can be
made for adjusting the pump impellers after a trial
period of operation.
Even in very small stations it is usually prudent to
provide standby plant to operate automatically
when a duty pump fails. Standby pumps can also be
used during maintenance and repair of other
pumps.
The number of standby units which should be
provided will depend on the station layout and the
possible consequences of pumps failing at a time of
maximum incoming flow. It should not be
overlooked that one pumpset may be undergoing
maintenance when this situation arises.
At small stations a portable pump is sometimes
used as a standby. A branch to the pumping main
should then be provided for connection of the
portable pump.
Provision of an emergency pumping inlet at any
station is always a safeguard against mains failure,
especially if the failure affects a wide area and there
are insufficient mobile generators to serve all
stations. Permanent provision also eliminates the
hardest and most accident prone task, of inserting
the suction pipes.
The need for standby electricity supply depends on
the importance of continued operation during a
possible period of electricity failure.

BS 8005-2:1987

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

The delivery pipework should be located above the

15 Layout of pumpsets, pipework,
control equipment and ancillary plant suction pipework and between the pumps and the
Many small and medium sized wet and dry well
pumping stations with rotodynamic pumps have
comparable layouts. The pumps should be in a line
with their vertical spindles passing through the roof
slab to the motors on the floor above. Where
universal joints are provided in the shafts, there
should be slight misalignment so that the bearings
do not track on the same path and cause failure.
Although this is referred to as a vertical pumpset,
the impeller is revolving horizontally in its volute.
The weight of the pump assembly should be taken
on a support (stool) below the pump casing and the
motor and the drive shaft supported by the floor
above. The pump suction pipeline consists of a
vertical 90 bend below the central inlet of each
pump casing, followed by a horizontal pipeline (with
its isolating valve) which passes through the wall
between the wet and dry wells and terminates as a
bell-mouth inlet.
Submersible pumps can be used in a dry well
situation. It is essential that only pumps with
adequate cooling arrangements be used and the
manufacturers approval should be obtained for the
proposed application.
Pumps situated in dry wells need to be primed
before they are started. This is normally achieved by
siting the pumps below the desired start water
levels in the wet well and by providing a small air
release pipe from the top of the pump casing. The
level of the suction pipeline should also be
coordinated with the details of the wet well. Siting
of a rotodynamic pump above the start water level
should be avoided if possible due to the problems
and additional maintenance which inevitably
result. A special priming method will be required,
either using an additional automatic extractor
pump or by using liquid from the pumping main or
by vacuum priming.
The outlet from the pump casing of a vertical
pumpset in a dry well is horizontal. The pump
delivery pipeline connects to it and should first
include a non-return valve, which should be in a
horizontal attitude, and then an isolating valve to
enable the non-return valve to be readily isolated in
the event of its requiring attention, e.g. to clear a
clogged seating. The suction and delivery sluice
valves should preferably not be rotated through
more than 45 to the vertical. The delivery pipelines
from the pumps combine into a header main
(bus main or manifold) at the commencement of the
pumping main. Connections should preferably be
horizontal and as short as possible to minimize
problems caused by silt and other debris.

BSI 02-2000

wall separating the wet and dry wells. This leaves

the space between the pumps and the opposite wall
clear for access. This arrangement usually means
that the header main is directed to one of the end
walls.
As the only reliable dimensions of pipe fittings can
be along their centrelines, the detailed levels and
positions of the pipework should refer to centreline
levels and not to invert levels.
The pipe bends in the arrangement described above
facilitate possible dismantling but it is also prudent
to introduce flexible couplings on the suction
pipeline for this purpose. A flexible coupling should
be provided on the delivery pipeline if possible; this
may not be practicable due to the anchoring
arrangements. It is important to allow for the whole
assembly of suction pipelines, pumps and delivery
pipelines to be erected before the pipelines are built
into the walls. It may be practicable to isolate the
whole assembly for pressure testing and in most
cases the delivery pipework can be tested at pump
closed valve head when setting to work.
Other matters which should be considered are as
follows.
a) Drainage facilities for emptying isolated
pumps and pipework before they are dismantled,
and air/gas release arrangements at high points
(which should be avoided if possible).
b) Cross connections and valves to enable suction
lines to be back flushed either with another pump
or by using the contents of the pumping main.
c) Inspection and rodding openings strategically
located on various items in the composite
assembly.
d) The need to provide intermediate bearings and
flexible couplings on drive spindles between
pumps and motors.
e) The need to collaborate with the pump
supplier. The detailed designs should be
acceptable to the pump supplier if he is to be
responsible for the operational efficiencies of the
pumpsets.
f) The dry well should be adequately ventilated by
extraction from low level to prevent the build-up
of heavier-than-air gases and at high level to
prevent the build-up of methane.

11

BS 8005-2:1987

16 Substructure design
The form of substructure should suit the types and
layout of the pumps and other plant. If alternatives
are being considered it will probably be found that
submerged pumpsets require the smallest
substructures, vertical pumpsets the next larger
and horizontal pumpsets the largest.
The following guidelines apply to all pumping
stations including the very small, and to ejector
stations.
a) Adequate access openings should be provided
for all operational and safety items that will have
to be introduced into the station and which may
have to be removed from it.
b) There should be liberal dimensional tolerances
in level and location for all installed items so that
they can be conveniently fitted together and fixed
to the structure.
c) Pipework is normally anchored where it is built
into the walls of the station and at these locations
some designers provide cast or welded-on puddle
flanges. Elsewhere the pipes and fittings should
be supported to avoid excessive strain on the
joints. Large valves should have individual
supports. Vertical pipe runs can be supported at
the base on duckfoot bends and horizontal runs
on reinforced supports with detachable metal
straps. The supports and anchorages may need to
withstand both test and surge pressures. They
should not impede dismantling.
d) Reasonable access facilities and working space
should be available for operation and
maintenance.
e) Floor drainage for a dry well should be
generous as it will be needed during construction
and also when pumps and pipework are emptied.
It is usually better to add the floor surfacing after
installation of the major items of plant and
pipework. A sump pump should normally be
included.

12

f) Facilities or provision should be included for

emptying a wet well.
g) Adequate lighting should be provided in a wet
well, and electrical apparatus should be certified
for use in a hazardous area in compliance with
BS 5345. Provision may be required for
emergency lighting.
h) Electrical power points for portable lights and
tools should be provided above ground for use
with portable low voltage output transformers
complying with BS 3535.
i) Hosing facilities may be justified for cleaning
the wet well and its control equipment.
j) Structural recommendations are as follows.
1) Information about the subsoil of the site,
and the groundwater, should be obtained in
advance of detailed design.
2) The dividing wall between wet and dry wells
should be considered as water retaining in
accordance with the recommendations of
BS 8007.
3) As with all buried structures, the
substructure should be designed so as not to
suffer movement because of a high external
water table. A risk of subsidence or flotation
may also affect the design and should always
be allowed for in the pipelines entering and
leaving the station.
4) Protection of the concrete should be
considered if there are aggressive soils or a risk
of septic sewage or corrosive industrial
discharges. The surfaces above sewage level
may be vulnerable if hydrogen sulphide is
liberated. In exceptional locations sulphates in
the soil and groundwater may be significant.
k) The environment of a pumping station
substructure is inevitably always humid and
steel and ironwork are rapidly corroded unless
effectively protected.

17 Wet wells
17.1 Capacity
The size of a wet well should be related to the
pumping rates as, except at large stations, it
provides storage for intermittent pumping. At large
stations the incoming sewers can provide some of
the wet well capacity.
For small and medium stations the size of the wet
well should be such that the pumps will not start
and stop too frequently (six to 12 starts per hour is
a guide).

BSI 02-2000

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

Some pump control equipment is usually in the wet

well and its function is normally associated with the
sewage level. It should be arranged so that its
operation is not impeded by disturbed liquid
surfaces, or by fat, rags or other extraneous matter.
Facilities should be provided for the vertical and
positional adjustment after initial operational
experience. The remainder of the control equipment
should be grouped with electrical equipment.
If a floor-mounted cubicle is used, it can also house
motor starters and control equipment (see 6.2 and
clause 7). It is important to provide generous
facilities for cables and other connections and to
allow ample working space around the cubicle.

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

BS 8005-2:1987

17.2 Design

18 Ventilation, smell and noise

The lower part of the wet well is the sump, which

should be shaped to suit the pump suctions. An
inefficient arrangement can result in a significant
reduction in pump output due to air entrainment. It
should also be shaped to prevent deposition of grit
and sewage solids which rapidly occurs when the
sewage ceases to move.
It is advisable to provide means of stopping the
inflow to the wet well for maintenance purposes.
Incoming sewers and sump design should be
arranged to avoid sewage dropping into the wet
well, as this can also cause air entrainment into the
pump suctions. The sewers can backdrop externally
into the wet well. If possible, the pump cut-in levels
should be below the level of the incoming sewers, to
prevent backing up except at large stations
(see 17.1). Backdrops cause problems of:
a) turbulence as a result of their discharging
below normal water level introducing air direct to
the suction pipe; and
b) blockage in the backdrops themselves.
Sump design should attempt to prevent air
entrainment and subsequent cavitation in a pump.
As the efficient operation of a station will depend on
both the pumps and the design of the sump, the
pump supplier should approve the design of the
sump and the suction pipework. At small stations it
is usually sufficient if the pump suctions are not
physically restricted and are well submerged when
pumping commences, but for large stations it may
be prudent to have hydraulic model tests to achieve
an efficient design for the composite arrangement.
There is considerable divergence of views on the
detailed design of suction pipework.

Careful consideration should be given to the

question of adequate and safe ventilation of the
buildings, and of any confined spaces. Toxic and
flammable gases can arise during the handling and
processing of sewage, and the system should be so
designed and operated that any air or gas
discharged is vented to a safe place in the open air.
Where this is impracticable, comprehensive tests
should be made to ascertain the nature of any
contaminants which might enter the system or be
generated within it, and appropriate precautions
should be incorporated in the design and operating
procedures to deal with them. (See Table 5 of
BS 8005-1:1987.)
It is difficult to avoid smell nuisances when
pumping sewage particularly in the circumstances
of overflow or pump failure. Care can be taken when
siting buildings to take advantage of prevailing
winds and by covering over outside tanks containing
sewage. It is possible to install filters and odour
removal equipment to deal with certain types of
noxious gases.
Particular attention should be paid to the prompt
disposal of screenings at pumping stations. The
disposal of screenings may be subject to the
statutory requirements of the Control of Pollution
Act 1974. (See BS 8005-0.)
Excessive noise can be damaging as well as
unpleasant to operatives and their neighbours. It
can be reduced by the careful design, selection and
installation of machinery. Noise levels within the
building can be reduced by the use of sound
absorbent linings. Transmission between
compartments and from the building can be reduced
by the use of heavy imperforate building materials
or of discontinuous construction. The use of
double-door vestibules and double glazing with a
large air gap is also effective. Outside the building,
the use of baffles and vegetation will also absorb and
disperse escaping noise.

17.3 Operation
A build-up of scum and grease at the sewage surface
in a wet well can affect the operation of control
equipment and access should be provided for
cleaning the control equipment and, if necessary, for
removing the scum. The part of the wet well in
which the pump control equipment is located should
have a sewage surface which is always reasonably
tranquil.
Adequate ventilation should be provided as a
safeguard against the accumulation of dangerous
gases or vapours.

BSI 02-2000

19 Lifting facilities
At every pumping station appropriate and suitable
lifting equipment should be provided, maintained in
a serviceable condition and used. This could take the
form of a simple pulley block, or in a large station an
overhead gantry crane.

13

BS 8005-2:1987

21 Environment and access

Sewage pumping stations are normally situated in
the outskirts of residential and industrial areas or
in the rural countryside. Good access is essential for
vehicles and plant for maintenance and emergency
circumstances, whatever the weather conditions.
Fencing and warning signs are advisable in
hazardous or vulnerable locations.
Access roads and parking areas should be designed
with suitability, durability and maintenance
requirements in mind. Similar consideration should
be taken in deciding areas to be grassed and trees
and hedges (or fences) to be provided. Landscaping
can be hastened by the use of quick-growing trees
and shrubs, but this involves extra trimming and
the risk of excessive root growth entering into sewer
tanks and pipes, and undermining foundations.
Power failures and flooding due to weather or burst
pipes present hazards to be met, particularly in
riverside and remote areas. These can lead to
inconvenience to the public from flooding, pollution
and smell unless such emergencies are taken into
account in general environmental considerations.

20 Superstructure
The superstructure of a sewage pumping station
will have to suit the substructure in providing
accommodation for pumping units, equipment and
operators. The design of the actual building requires
special consideration in respect of size, type and
appearance.
Buildings should be substantial, well-proportioned
and with a choice of materials suitable to
operational and climatic conditions. This includes
provisions such as damp-proofing, insulation,
air-conditioning and protection against the weather.
Pumping stations should also be protected against
vandalism and unlawful entry by fitting adequate
locking devices to windows and doors. For remote
stations and in high-risk areas, alarm systems can
be fitted in addition. If resort is to be made to
underground stations for security purposes, the risk
of flooding, fire and explosion should be seriously
taken into account.

14

BSI 02-2000

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

The type, rating and range of operation of cranes

and other lifting equipment will vary widely
depending on the pumps and ancillary equipment
which have to be installed and maintained. For
larger installations, permanently installed gantry
cranes covering the whole area of the pumphouse
are convenient. Multi-purpose lifting appliances
such as lorry mounted cranes, fork-lift trucks and
small hydraulic excavators are in common use in the
vicinity of pumping stations. Particularly for mobile
plant, consideration should be given to the question
of adequate headroom, the proximity of overhead
power cables, turning circle and surface wheel
bearing capacity.
Slings, chains, ropes and other lifting gear should be
suitable for the particular lifting operation.
The general statutory standard for the construction
and use of all lifting equipment is contained in
Section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work etc.
Act 1974, and even if the Factories Act 1961 does
not apply, Sections 26 and 27 of the Factories
Act 1961 may be taken as guidelines to detailed
testing, inspections and certification. Advice on the
application of the Factories Act to any particular
installation may be obtained from the local office of
the Health and Safety Executive.
The high incidence of back injury among pumping
station operatives in particular justifies the
provision of suitable mechanical devices for the
off-loading of plant and materials from transport
vehicles.

BS 8005-2:1987

Section 4. Design of pumping mains

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

22 Velocities of flow
To avoid sedimentation, the minimum
recommended velocity in pumping mains is
about 0.75 m/s, but if there is a velocity of
about 1.2 m/s for several hours each day, the
minimum velocity can be as low as 0.5 m/s. The
maximum velocity should normally not be
above 3 m/s. Power considerations usually impose
this limit.

23 Diameter
The diameter of a pumping main should be
determined by an economic analysis of the pipeline
and pumping costs and by an assessment of the
engineering factors which may sometimes override
the economic analysis. Alternative diameters should
be examined which produce minimum and
maximum velocities within the acceptable limits,
and pumping costs should be estimated taking
account of the normal rate of pumping (not
necessarily the peak rate). The most economical
scheme will be the one which involves the lowest
overall annual cost, including repayment of capital
cost, running and maintenance.
If septicity of the sewage is likely to be a problem the
retention period in the pumping main should be
reduced by adopting a smaller diameter and
accepting a higher velocity of flow, even though this
may mean higher power consumption.
The minimum diameter of a main is usually 100 mm
but sometimes smaller mains may be considered to
maintain a minimum velocity and avoid septicity.
Mains as small as 50 mm can be used but it is then
necessary to install a macerator in the system to
reduce the size of solids.

24 Number of mains
Duplication of pumping mains should be considered
in the following circumstances.
a) To provide a standby in the event of the other
main being temporarily out of action. Duplication
may be provided for the whole length or for part
of the length, e.g. at crossings of watercourses,
canals and railways.
b) To accommodate storm sewage flows which
could not be carried in a single main within the
acceptable limits of velocity.
c) To permit parallel working of the centrifugal
pumps where their characteristics do not lend
themselves to combined working through a single
main.

3)

Arrangements should be made to ensure frequent

use of both mains to prevent septicity. Automatic
pump changeover is a convenient method.
In certain circumstances it may be advisable to
provide a connection to a pumping main adjacent to
a pumping station for a mobile pump to enable the
station to be bypassed.

25 Pressures
The maximum friction head (pressure) arises at the
maximum velocity. It should be calculated by one of
the recognized hydraulic systems for friction losses
in a pipeline flowing full. It should be remembered
that friction factors and viscosity of the liquid are
likely to change when air or oxygen injection is
employed to control septicity (see BS 8005-1).
The possibility of positive and negative pressures
due to surge (water hammer) should be considered.
They are more likely to be significant in long mains
or where high velocities arise. Surge analysis is
complicated and is usually only undertaken when
surge pressures are expected to be important. There
are now many computer programmes available to
assist in this analysis.
Surge pressures can be alleviated by various means
as follows:
a) a suitably designed regulating or non-return
valve in the main;
b) a pressure regulating or surge chamber on the
main;
c) flywheels on the pumps to avoid sudden shut
down;
d) a standpipe, close to the pumping station;
e) double-acting surge relief valves on system.
Other methods can be included such as stage
shut-down, or variable speed drives to reduce
long-term fatigue failure of pipelines due to the
effect of surge pressures.
Surge pressures influence the selection of material
and class of pipe of a pumping main.
Recommendations are given in CP 312-2 and
CP 2010-2, CP 2010-3, CP 2010-4 and CP 2010-53).
The pumping main should be so designed as to be
capable of withstanding a hydraulic test pressure of
not less than 1.5 times the maximum working
pressure or not less than 1.5 times the maximum
surge pressure, whichever is the greater, subject to
the recommendations in the above codes.

Under revision

BSI 02-2000

15

BS 8005-2:1987

26 Valves

16

27 Profiles
Where possible, a pumping main should be laid with
a continuous uphill grade and with gentle curves on
both horizontal and vertical planes. When a
continuous uphill grade is not possible, air release
valves should be incorporated at high points and as
the profile of the main dictates. Washout valves
should be installed at low points.

28 Discharge arrangements
The discharge of a pumping main should be
arranged to avoid turbulence or splashing. It is
preferable to avoid a vertical drop pipe and to
arrange that the end of the pumping main is always
full. If this is not possible, and the sewage may be
septic, the surfaces of the structure at the discharge
should be protected against corrosion.
Chambers into which pumping mains discharge
should be well ventilated. (See clause 11.)

29 Anchorages
Pumping mains require anchorages to resist the
thrusts developed at changes of direction, tapers,
tees, valves and blank ends. Anchorages should not
impede flexibility or expansion and, as far as
possible, they should allow for possible replacement
of fittings in the pipeline. The maximum thrusts
usually occur when the pipelines are being tested.
In situ concrete blocks should be provided for buried
pipelines. For horizontal mains they should take the
form of a cradle wedged against the undisturbed
trench side; the design should be based on the safe
bearing pressure of the ground. Vertical or inclined
fittings should be clamped with metal straps to
concrete blocks beneath them. Inclined pipelines,
steeper than 1 in 6 should be anchored by concrete
blocks cast across the pipes and set into undisturbed
ground.

BSI 02-2000

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

The arrangement and location of isolating, air

release, washout and non-return valves should be
planned together. Preferably a vehicle should be
able to reach each location, but this needs to be
reconciled with the importance of a valve and the
possible interference with land usage.
On long mains, valves should be included to allow
for sections to be isolated and emptied within a
reasonable time. Special consideration should be
given to crossings of major roads, railways,
watercourses and hazardous locations, but
otherwise the sections might be up to about 1 km
long. An isolating valve should be provided just
inside or outside a pumping station so that the
station pipework can be dismantled without
emptying the main. Twin mains should be cross
connected, usually at the points selected for
isolation and emptying. Where a section of a main is
to be emptied through a washout valve, provision
should be made for the removal of the contents.
Air release valves suitable for sewerage systems
should be provided at summits:
a) to release air when the main is being filled;
b) to release air and gas which arise during
normal pumping;
c) to mitigate the effects of surge;
d) to permit air to enter when the main is being
emptied,
In the vicinity of an air release valve a main should
rise to the valve at a gradient preferably not flatter
than 1 in 500 and fall away at a gradient not flatter
than 1 in 300 for a significant length each side of the
summit.
Air release valves can make considerable noise
when operating and they should be regularly
maintained. If a chamber is provided it should be
adequately ventilated to release the volume of air
from the main and to prevent the accumulation of
malodorous, toxic or flammable gases. In some
situations air can adequately be released manually
through a vertical pipe with a cock.
Care should be taken not to exacerbate possible
surge problems (see clause 25) by the siting or the
use of incorrect types of air release valves. In certain
situations it may be necessary to restrict the rate at
which a pumping main is filled.

Non-return valves are used to prevent backflow

after pumping has stopped and should be provided
at the pumps. In special situations they may have to
be sited on a pumping main; they should have
extended spindles and lever arms so that they can
be manually opened for emptying the main but the
size of the non-return valve and static head dictate
whether this is practicable. A bypass may be
necessary in some cases.

BS 8005-2:1987

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

In situations where it may be impractical to provide

an anchor block to resist thrust, the use of flanged
joints, self-restraining flexible couplings, or special
harness assemblies across joints, may be
considered. These should transfer the thrust along
the pipeline until either it is possible to provide a
concrete anchor block, or sufficient frictional
resistance is developed between the pipes and the
refilled ground to overcome the thrust.

BSI 02-2000

30 Control of septicity
Septicity in pumping mains can be prevented or
controlled by the addition of oxidants to the sewage
either in the form of oxygen or oxidizing chemicals
such as hydrogen peroxide. Chlorine injection, with
appropriate safeguards, may also be considered.
The injection of gaseous oxygen, either pure or as
air, causes complications which should be taken into
account when designing the pipeline. Automatic air
release valves at peaks may be incompatible with
the process and it may be better to have air release
cocks for occasional purging. Materials in the
pipeline, fittings, valves, etc., should be compatible
with the oxygen/chlorine/sewage mixture.
The use of air instead of oxygen is not advised as the
quantity needs to be five times greater. Oxygen
absorption from air is less efficient than from
undiluted oxygen and it may be necessary to remove
a considerable volume of nitrogen.

17

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

blank

18

BS 8005-2:1987

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

Publications referred to
BS 1710, Specification for identification of pipelines and services.
BS 3535, Specification for safety isolating transformers for industrial and domestic purposes.
BS 5153, Specification for cast iron check valves for general purposes.
BS 5304, Code of practice. Safeguarding of machinery.
BS 5345, Code of practice for the selection, installation and maintenance of electrical apparatus for use in
potentially explosive atmospheres (other than mining applications or explosive processing and
manufacture).
BS 5839, Fire detection and alarm systems in buildings.
BS 5839-1, Code of practice for installation and servicing.
BS 6297, Code of practice for design and installation of small sewage treatment works and cesspools.
BS 8005, Sewerage.
BS 8005-0, Introduction and guide to data sources and documentation.
BS 8005-1, Guide to new sewerage construction.
BS 8005-3, Guide to sewers in tunnel4).
BS 8005-4 Guide to design and construction of outfalls.
BS 8005-5, Guide to rehabilitation of sewers4).
BS 8007, Code of practice for design of concrete structures for retaining aqueous liquids.
BS 8301, Code of practice for building drainage5).
CP 312, Code of practice for plastics pipework (thermoplastics material).
CP 312-2, Unplasticized PVC pipework for the conveyance of liquids under pressure.
CP2010, Code of practice for pipelines6).
CP2010-2, Design and construction of steel pipelines in land.
CP2010-3, Design and construction of iron pipelines in land.
CP2010-4, Design and construction of asbestos cement pipelines in land.
CP2010-5, Design and construction of prestressed concrete pressure pipelines in land.
CIRIA Technical Note 119: Screens and Grit in Sewage: Record, treatment and disposal.

4) In

preparation.

5) Referred
6) Under

to in the foreword only.

revision as BS 8010.

BSI 02-2000

BS 8005-2:
1987

BSI British Standards Institution

BSI
389 Chiswick High Road
London
W4 4AL

Licensed Copy: Giorgio Cavalieri, ALSTOM, 15-Mar-01, Uncontrolled Copy. BSI

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