Electrical System Upgrades to High Lift Pump at Lake Huron Water Treatment Plant

In order to accomplish an enhanced level of operation flexibility, Detroit Water and Sewerage department (DWSD) had identified three (3) High Lift Pumps at their lake Huron WTP to be fitted with Variable Frequency Drives (each rated for 5500 HP at 13.2 voltage level). The proposed VFD system is the largest of its kind installed in a water treatment plant within the range of Mid-West American Water Utility Agencies. As a part of the Design-Build team that was chosen to implement this project, METCO performed the role of the Designer-of-Record and provided the full range of Design and Construction Engineering Services. The major project elements include: - New 6000 Sq. ft. Electrical Room to house new VFDs - Three (3) 15 KV, 5500 HP, water-cooled, Variable Frequency Drive System (VFD) - One (1) 1500 KVA double-ended substation for auxiliary power - Heating and ventilation system for the VFD System and new Electrical Room - Fire Alarm and Security System for the new building - Ovation system upgrades to include new VFD based pump control strategy - Modifications to existing motors of high lift pumps for Brushless Excitation System. - New low voltage VFDs for the process water system The project was designed and constructed within the budgeted cost and within the scheduled time frame.