2019 OCWA Operator Expo Our Annual Event, Renamed to Reflect Its Purpose, |
Special thanks are due to the many Sponsors and Exhibitors who participated in this year’s event. All their names are listed here. Without the generous support of our Sponsors, and the dedicated attention of the Exhibitors, our event would have been nowhere near the success we all enjoyed. We are especially indebted to Irvine Ranch Water District, for generously hosting our event at Rattlesnake Reservoir.
In the first hour, Blair Schuler of American Flow Control, led the group through a comprehensive look at Resilient Wedge Gate Valve Operation and Uses. Beginning with an overview of the applications and operation, Schuler introduced the standards under which these valves are designed and built, the construction and functionality of each component, as well as the ‘why’ for each standard and the rationale behind the guidelines. As operators encounter a multitude of valves in the field, this topic is critically important since a strong working knowledge of their operation and use helps them understand the water system in greater detail. In addition, it helps today’s worker better understand the maintenance needs of an older infrastructure.
NO-DES, which stands for Neutral Output Discharge Elimination System, is the only water main flushing technology available to the industry that discharges no water to waste during operation, achieves bio-film scouring velocities of 5 ft/sec in mains 12” and under, and filters out debris and sediment down to below 1 Absolute micron, all while it analyzes water flow rate and turbidity during flushing. It’s a drought resilient, environmentally-friendly flushing practice. ![]() Keeling explained in detail how the technology functions primarily through its use of filters. Utilizing a variable speed water pump to scour pipes, and multiple filter chambers to whisk water through to remove sand, sediment, or any other debris that may be inside the system. This system can clean distribution water mains, clear and pass mains failing BAC-T tests, GAC backwashing, reservoir and tank clean outs, and provide water quality emergency response solutions. We were very fortunate to have Huntington Beach Utilities Division agree to bring their NO-DES truck to the Expo, so attendees could both see it and ask questions of those who actually work the system. Throughout the day, many people were heard to express their appreciation for the opportunity to see the technology up close, and how pleased they were to hear the positive comments from the Huntington Beach operators.
The winning team, City of Santa Ana #1: “West Coast Tappers,” captured first place with a remarkable time of 1:24. Coming in second was City of Huntington Beach #1: “Surf City Tappers,” who clocked in at 1:39. Third Place went to the team from Los Angeles Department of Water & Power: “L.A. Tappers,” with a time of 1:40, while the City of Anaheim: “Tapping Monkeys,” finished fourth with a time of 1:55. Rounding out the bracket were two teams from Irvine Ranch Water District. Santa Ana’s time moved them into second place on the all time rankings, while Huntington Beach’s score put them in sixth place for all time.
All agreed it was a great day of education and competition, and everyone left looking forward to next year’s event. Should you have suggestions for next year’s event, contact the OCWA Board. We look forward to hearing from you. |