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Design and Testing of USEPA'S Flint Pipe Rig for Corrosion Control Evaluation
Daniel J Williams1, Christopher J Parrett1, Michael R Schock1
1US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, National Risk Management Research Laboratory, Water Systems Division, Drinking Water Treatment and Distribution System Branch, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Journal - American Water Works Association
|July 25, 2020
Summary
EPA pipe rigs in Flint, Michigan, helped optimize corrosion control. After initial solenoid issues, lead levels in lead service lines (LSLs) stabilized, averaging 2-5 microg/L, consistent with city measurements.
Area of Science:
- Environmental science
- Water quality research
- Materials science
Background:
- Flint, Michigan, faced challenges with water quality and lead contamination.
- Optimizing corrosion control is crucial for public health in water distribution systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and test pipe rigs simulating lead service lines (LSLs) for corrosion control optimization.
- To assess lead release from LSLs under controlled conditions.
Main Methods:
- Constructed four pipe rigs using excavated lead pipe sections from Flint homes.
- Operated rigs on a daily on/off schedule with a solenoid valve-operated timer system.
- Monitored lead levels and water chemistry, addressing equipment malfunctions.
Main Results:
- Initial solenoid malfunctions caused sporadic lead levels by preventing scale restabilization.
- Replacement of solenoids allowed successful conditioning of pipe rigs.
- Average lead levels stabilized between 2 and 5 microg/L after solenoid replacement.
Conclusions:
- Pipe rigs are effective tools for studying lead release from LSLs.
- Corrosion control optimization is achievable with stable system operation.
- The study's findings align with real-world lead levels in Flint's LSLs.