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Bypass pumping is vital to a wide range of applications, including construction, industrial, and municipal projects. These industries continue to grow every year; for example, the construction industry is expected to reach $1.2 trillion in output by next year. Because of this growth, it’s essential that industries control groundwater to reduce the risk of flooding and delayed project times. Below, we dive further into bypass water level management.

The Importance of Reliable Level Management

Bypass pumping is necessary to preventing contamination and sewage overflows while repairs are in progress. The bypasses must run constantly to quickly move large amounts of water, so planning and managing bypass pumping system water levels is key. Cities or contractors must appropriately manage the wastewater flow, which is why, often times multiple pumps are necessary to successfully completing bypass projects. Therefore, before you run your bypass system, you should select and test the right pumps for your application or consult an MWI Pumps expert to choose the appropriate pumps for your needs. If you’re interested in industrial pump rental, don’t hesitate to contact MWI anytime.

Bypass Water Level Management Methods

Method 1: Float Switch System

The first process used to monitor water or sewage levels involves observing level instruments in a smaller area of water, such as inside a manhole. It’s a standard method that relies on a float switch system to control your pump’s motors. Each float has a small bubble of mercury inside of it. As pumps automatically divert fluid through the bypass and into the manhole, the float switch moves with the liquid level left in the tank. Essentially, a float switch opens or closes a circuit when the water level reaches a certain point. When the float is tipped upward 1% past horizontal, this will complete the contact and start the pump. In the same way, a float past horizontal in the down position will break the connection and stop the pump. What’s most important regarding this method is that you must make sure the float switch is operational. If it doesn’t work, you’ll need to use a new float switch.

Method 2: Level Transducers

Another way to manage water levels is with a pressure sensor or submersible level transducer, which maintains the water level within parameters set by the contractor or the city. This process is used when a large area of water storage is available. The transducer is in the pump control panel and provides start and stop control of the pumps at the pre-determined maximum levels. Our pumping experts believe you can manage water levels in many different ways, not just the few we outlined above. For a free assessment of your jobsite to determine your pumping needs, or a pump rental which includes a full maintenance service package, contact MWI today at 954-426-1500 or via the form below.