Revolutionizing Water Treatment: Implementing a Reverse Osmosis Plant in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Project Overview

Riggs Distler’s Mechanical, Industrial Electric, and Heavy Civil groups partnered to successfully complete the construction of a new Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant for our energy client in Philadelphia. The client sought to construct, own, and operate the reverse osmosis plant to supply filtered, deionized river water for use in its steam generation process. This was in an effort to reduce the high monthly cost of using city water.

Challenges Overcome:

The project presented significant challenges, as the new plant was constructed on an existing building that was over a century old. An extensive amount of existing equipment and piping required removal prior to beginning construction. 

With the new equipment being installed in tight quarters, it was crucial for our team to plan thoroughly and work strategically. Our mechanical group utilized our design team to scan the entire building and used 3D modeling for equipment layout and production of isometric drawings. This allowed for a thorough understanding of the space and ensured that the new equipment would be installed in the most efficient and effective way possible.

Additionally, due to the current market, equipment deliveries – specifically electrical equipment – were very difficult. We experienced major delays in the switchgears, pumps, and VFD’s. To overcome this challenge, our team worked closely with our engineering partner in order to procure temporary equipment. This allowed us to continue with start-up and commissioning, ultimately getting the plant in service on time.