Floating pump stations can be a better solution for the municipal water supply system located where water levels fluctuate, shore access is limited and the cost is a major factor. Following the guidelines and specifications of municipal engineers, a variety of pumps, platform features, and access can be applied.
The floating unit can be placed in the optimum water area of the lake, reservoir, or river and connected to a pipeline via a floating bridge, anchored access ramp, or way line. Compared to other intake designs, the floating system significantly reduces filtration and sedimentation costs by delivering a higher water quality and reduced sedimentation rate because the water is taken from a more stable region and the pumping elevation of the water will be much lower. Another benefit of the floating pumping system is that a submersible pump will increase performance and capacity, and significantly reduce energy consumption.
The cost of the floating pumping system makes it an attractive solution for investment. In areas where the water level varies, there can be extreme distance changes to the coastline. Because it is necessary to pump from the deeper areas to maintain continuity in the water receiving unit, the costs of conventional solutions such as piled bridges and lift pumps are high, especially after the water basin is operational. A solution for this, floating bridges can be used from land to water. These floating structures can be constructed of strong polyethylene encased foam modules using a special connection system that conforms to the land during low water level periods, with slopes as high as 45 degrees.
The floating pump station can accommodate a variety of equipment and features to facilitate performance, maintenance, and environmental safety. Grids at the bottom of the platform can prevent the pumps from damaging living organisms during suction and block floating objects from the suction unit.
Floating pumping stations can supply water to areas several miles from the central collection unit in large areas of water. Instead of the higher transport costs from a central pumping station, water can be supplied to an area by a floating water receiving unit in the nearest water basin. It is a preferred solution for municipal water supply and agricultural irrigation, especially in newer areas under development.