Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
1) The incoming wastewater flow rate can vary significantly throughout the day, depending on factors such as population usage patterns, industrial discharges, and weather conditions. A reservoir provides a buffer to regulate and smooth out these fluctuations in flow, ensuring a consistent and controlled flow into the wastewater treatment system.
2) Wastewater pumps are designed to operate optimally within a specific flow range. By using a reservoir, the pumps can be sized to match the average flow rate rather than the peak flow rate. This allows for the selection of appropriately sized pumps, which can operate more efficiently and provide cost savings in terms of energy consumption and maintenance.
3) A reservoir enables the installation of multiple pumps in parallel. This redundancy is crucial for reliable operation and ensures that even if one pump fails or requires maintenance, the others can continue to handle the incoming wastewater flow. Redundancy reduces the risk of system failure and minimizes the downtime required for repairs.
4) In case of power outages or equipment failures, a reservoir provides emergency storage capacity. This allows the pump station to continue operating and prevent wastewater backups or spills until power is restored or the issue is resolved.
5) Wastewater systems may experience surges or hydraulic shocks due to sudden changes in flow, such as during heavy rain events or rapid changes in demand. The reservoir acts as a buffer to absorb these surges, reducing the potential for pressure fluctuations, pipe bursts, or other hydraulic problems. It helps to maintain system stability and protect the infrastructure from excessive stress.