When a critical wastewater pumping asset failed unexpectedly, the site required an immediate solution to maintain operations while plans were put in place for a permanent replacement. With the new asset subject to a significant lead time, the operator needed a temporary pumping system that could provide reliable performance over an extended period without disrupting day-to-day operations.
Maintaining service continuity was essential, not only to protect operational efficiency but also to ensure environmental compliance and minimise the risk of disruption to the wider network. A rapid-response solution was therefore required to bridge the gap between equipment failure and permanent asset renewal.
Challenge
The failure of the existing pump created an urgent requirement for temporary pumping capacity. In addition to restoring operation quickly, the solution needed to integrate seamlessly with the site's existing infrastructure while allowing space for the future permanent installation.
The project was further complicated by the need to work within the existing electrical and pipework arrangements, minimising modifications wherever possible. During the course of the installation, site conditions became more challenging when an additional duty pump also failed, significantly increasing reliance on the temporary system and highlighting the need for a robust and dependable solution.
Solution
Xylem's Water Solutions Services team responded rapidly, mobilising engineers and equipment to site to install a temporary NC200 Electric pump set. The deployment was completed within a matter of days, ensuring the site could continue operating with minimal interruption.
The team removed the failed equipment and adapted the existing pipework arrangement to accommodate the temporary installation. By integrating directly into the site's existing infrastructure, the solution avoided the need for major civil works while providing the hydraulic performance required to maintain operations.
On the electrical side, the temporary installation was connected to the existing power supply and configured to operate through the site's control systems. The pump's integrated variable speed drive (VSD) enabled performance to be precisely matched to site requirements, delivering the necessary flow rate while optimising energy efficiency.
To provide ongoing visibility throughout the hire period, the installation was equipped with Xylem Secure Connect telemetry, enabling 24/7 remote monitoring of pump performance, alarms and operational status. A planned maintenance programme was also put in place to ensure reliability and compliance throughout the duration of the project.
Results
The temporary electric pumping solution successfully maintained continuous operation of the site following the failure of a critical asset. By rapidly restoring pumping capacity and integrating with existing infrastructure, Xylem helped prevent operational disruption while supporting the customer's long-term asset replacement programme.
The flexibility of the variable speed-driven solution enabled performance to be optimised to site conditions, while remote monitoring provided confidence that the installation could be managed proactively throughout the hire period.
When a second pump unexpectedly failed during the project, the temporary NC200 Electric unit became the site's sole operational pump, continuing to operate reliably under increased demand and demonstrating the resilience of the solution.
By combining rapid deployment, technical expertise and ongoing support, Xylem delivered a dependable temporary pumping system that safeguarded operations, reduced risk and ensured business continuity throughout a critical period of infrastructure renewal.