UDF Program Implementation and Update for BWSC
Weston & Sampson implemented a system-wide unidirectional flushing (UDF) program for the Boston Water and Sewer Commission from 2011 through late 2014. The program included flushing approximately 800 miles of water mains using the Commission’s existing UDF sequences. The UDF program implementation was conducted at night with an annual goal of 220 miles of flushed water mains.
The UDF program implementation tasks included:
- Evaluating the existing UDF program and sequences
- Developing field protocols for an efficient and effective flushing program
- Procuring vehicles, state-of-the-art equipment, and tools for conducting the flushing
- Developing a form and methods for field data collection
- Implementing the data collection using an iPad tablet device
- Creating project website (www.idatacollect.com) for real-time data reporting
- Identifying pilot area limits and conducting pilot flushing program
- Reviewing pilot flushing program results and finalizing field protocols and equipment
- Conducting the flushing program to achieve 220 miles of flushed water mains each of the four years
- Creating an electronic data reporting format to import data into the Commission’s Cass Works software
- Performing periodic safety audits to ensure implementation of field protocols
- Monitoring the flushing program implementation and providing periodic progress reports to the Commission
In 2012, we were hired to update the existing unidirectional fushing (UDF) program sequences. The updated UDF program’s objective was to improve the flushing sequences by reducing the number of valve closures required. This task was completed with the goal of achieving effective and efficient UDF program implementation.
The UDF program update tasks included:
- Using the latest water system GIS data to create a new hydraulic model.
- Using the InfoWater modeling software to create the new hydraulic model (~1100 miles of water mains)
- Assigning 2011 metered water demands in the hydraulic model (average day demand – 64 mgd)
- Merging the hydraulic model with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority‘s water model to simulate boundary conditions
- Using the InfoWater UDF Suite Software to create UDF sequences (~7000 new sequences) for 800 miles of water coordinated with the new hydraulic model
- Including all 6-inch to 12-inch diameter water mains owned by the Commission in the UDF sequence creation