ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
         OFFICE OF ENFORCEMENT
              EPA 330/9-74-003
          't'niL crhi"  Evaluation
          ^       o
                 of the
        }\'cttLT Ointl/t}  Control Plant
         Stockton.  California
NATIONAL FIELD INVESTIGATIONS CENTERS
DENVER.  COLORADO AND CINCINNATI. OHIO
                                     £
            DECEMBER1974

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   ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

        OFFICE OF ENFORCEMENT



       ENGINEERING EVALUATION

               OF THE

  MAIN WATER QUALITY CONTROL PLANT

        STOCKTON, CALIFORNIA
NATIONAL FIELD INVESTIGATIONS CENTERS
DENVER, COLORADO AND CINCINNATI, OHIO

            DECEMBER 1974'

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                                  CONTENTS


                                                                   Page

INTRODUCTION  	 	      1

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS 	      3

     Sludge Lagoons 	 	      3
     Trickling Filter Modifications 	      4
     Building Additions and Modifications 	      6

METHODS OF INVESTIGATION  	      8

ENGINEERING EVALUATIONS 	  , 	      9

     A.  Construction of Sludge Lagoons  ....  	      9
     B.  Trickling Filter Modifications  	     24
     C.  Building Additions and Modifications ... 	     45

APPENDIX	     50
     Memo:   Request for Technical  Assistance
     Construction Drawings
          1.   Sludge Lagoon, G5
          2.   Sludge Pumping Station, M2
          3.   Sludge Pumping Station, Ml
          4.   Sludge Lagoons, G3
          C   f 1 t. j J « _ I •-. M n A »  /"* A
    iiuage Lagoons, tad
    Sludge Lagoon, G4
6.  Trickling Filters, S7
7.  Trickling Filters, M2

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                     ENGINEERING EVALUATION OF THE
                   MAIN WATER QUALITY CONTROL PLANT
                         STOCKTON,  CALIFORNIA
INTRODUCTION
    On October 30, 1974,  Region IX,  USEPA,  requested technical  assis-
tance from the National  Field Investigations Center-Denver (NFIC-D) in
the interim audit of the  Stockton,  California Main Water Quality Control
Plant.  An engineering evaluation of the design and construction methods
was requested in a memorandum to the Regional Administrator,  October 18,
1974, from the Manager, Western Area Audit  Group (See Appendix).
    EPA Grant No. C060695,  the subject of the audit, covers the
enlargement and modifications of existing treatment facilities.  The
total cost of the project was $15.2  million ($8.3 million Federal funds),
Six contracts were awarded  under this grant; three contracts  have been
completed and three are in  the active status.  The areas where  technical
assistance was requested  and the contractors involved include:
         Project                             Constructipn Contractor
         Sludge Lagoons                       C.  N. Peterson Co.
         Trickling Filter Modifications      Caputo-COAC
         Building Additions and              C.  S. Plumb
          Modifications
    The City of Stockton  retained the consulting engineering  firm of
Brown and Caldwell to provide (1) design services, (2) inspection and
construction, (3) preparation of O&M Manuals, and (4) miscellaneous
assistance.  The engineering firm was given the responsibility  for
managing the project.

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                                                                     2
    This report represents  the  results  of the  engineering  investigations
conducted by NFIC-Cincinnati  and  NFIC-Denver personnel,  the conclusions
herein represent our best engineering judgement.   The  report deals
specifically with the questions listed  in the  memo of  October 18.

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SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
    The Western Area Audit Group asked specific questions concerning
construction practices, design errors, plant operating problems, structural
integrity, validity of change orders,  and whether approved plans and
specifications were followed.   The detailed discussions of the specific
questions are contained in ENGINEERING EVALUATIONS;  the conclusions from
the investigations are summarized below.
  +
A.  Sludge Lagoons
    The construction of the lagoons was accomplished according to
specifications.  The telescoping weirs do not function as designed and
leak excessively.  The consultant engineering firm specified an allowable
clearance between the weir and the riser unit; the contractor did not
fabricate the weirs to these specifications.  The City will have to
correct the problem at their expense.
    The existing sludge drawoff suction line cleanouts were installed
according to specifications, however the lagoons must be drained before
they can be used.  Draining the lagoon in order to utilize a cleanout does
not constitute a good design, and a safety hazard remotely exists since
isolation valves were not included upstream of the cleanouts.  There is
also a potential for back siphonage of lagoon contents into the City
water supply through the sludge piping system (Detail J/G3, contract
drawing G3)..
    The sump pump in the sludge pumping station should be capable of
pumping 60 gpm against a head of 20 feet as required in the specifications,
based on our calculations.  A pressure test on the pump discharge piping

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                                                                    4
should be conducted to verify  if the  pump  is  capable of discharging at
the specified 20 feet of head  at 60 gpm.   The most cost effective original
design should have had the sump  pump  discharge back into the lagoon
rather than into the supernatant withdrawal  piping.
    Coning occurs when the sludge is  pumped  from the lagoon.  No
instrumentation or visual  aids such as  a sludge density meter or sight
glasses were included to permit  the operator  to know when coning occurs.
    Dredging is the most effective method  of  removing sludge from the
lagoons since the suction  port can be moved  to the solids, thus eliminating
the coning effect.  However, operating  and capital costs for such systems
are higher.
    The seven change orders for  the sludge lagoons and the 43 change
orders for trickling filter modifications  are currently being evaluated
by the California State Water  Resources Control Board and a report will
be issued to the audit group.  A parallel  investigation by NFIC personnel
would be redundant at this time.   It  is proposed that NFIC review the
completed report and submit comments  to the  audit group.
B.  Trickling Filter Modifications
    With the exception of  specific items discussed below, it is our
conclusion that the construction work was  accomplished in accordance
with approved plans and specifications.
    The leakage experienced in the walls of  trickling filter No.  4 was
the result of basic design error complicated  by "hurry up" construction
techniques to make the filter  operational  for the 1973 canning season.

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                                                                    5
    There is no reason to believe that trickling filters Nos.  5 and 6
cannot be operated to full  capacity.   The filters may not be operated at
maximum capacity at all  times due to  energy  costs required to lift the
wastewater to the top of the filters;  a portion  of the wastewater is
treated in the three 6-foot depth trickling  filters.   It would appear
that the leakage now experienced in the walls  of filters Nos.  5 and 6
will not be as great as  in filter No.  4.
    The effluent leakage through the  filter  walls could have the effect
of attacking and leaching the mortar  joint to  the point where only
the silicon remains.  The wetting and drying of  the rebars exposed to
oxygen would accelerate corrosion of  the bars  and weaken adherence between
concrete grout and the rebars.  However,  this  could take a number of years
before it would significantly affect  the structure.  The existing founda-
tion will withstand the additional  weight of the concrete blocks
resulting from the effluent leakage.
    Concrete blocks as specified in this contract are not noted for their
ability to withstand absorption.  At  the time  of the original  design,
the concrete block construction was probably the least costly alternative.
    The "thudding" noise occurs in the two 30-inch check valves installed
on the discharge pipes from recirculation pumps.  The possible causes for
the noise and vibration problems include improper installation, insufficient
spring tension, and improper design of the structure.  The problem
should be corrected before structure  fatigue occurs.

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                                                                    6
    Pump operational  problems  and the  determination of who will  correct
the problems are currently being negotiated  by the pump suppliers and
the consulting engineers.   The consultants suspect that the pumps were
supplied with the wrong pitched impellers.   Pump  No.  5 draws approximately
15 amperes more than  pump  No.  6.   If the current  drawn exceeds the rated
amperage, the circuit breaker  will  disengage.   Any modification to the
circuit breaker to increase the amperage above the rated amperage will
decrease the motor life.   If the problem is  not corrected soon,  the
increased amperage will break  down the insulation in the motor and it
will have to be replaced.
    If the doors of the main electrical  substation are left open and
access to unauthorized personnel is not controlled, then both State and
Federal safety requirements are being  violated.  Equipment deterioration
due to dust and moisture will  occur.
    The walls of filter No. 4  did have numerous open mortar joints.
Corrective action has been delayed until a decision is reached on the
wall leakage problem.  The exterior wall surfaces of filters Nos. 5
and 6 had full joints.  The interior walls below  the filter media could
not be inspected.
C.  Building Additions and Modifications
    After review of the concrete specimen data, those that failed and
those that passed specified criteria,  it is  concluded that the poured
concrete now meets the strength requirements.   The maintenance building
will not be structurally affected by retention of the manhole adjacent
to the building.

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                                                                    7
    An 80% compaction vs a  95%  compaction on  the  sandy material  underneath
the sewer pipe should have  relatively  little  effect  on the  pipe.
    The brick veneer on the operations  building is for aesthetic  purposes.
Since the cavity between the brick  and  existing wall  is  grouted  to a
height of 8 feet, it should prevent any movement  if  a vehicle  hits it.
The reduced grouting above  the  8 ft. height should present  no  safety
hazard.

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                                                                      8
METHODS OF INVESTIGATION
    An on-site inspection of the treatment facilities  was  made on
November 21, 1974 by Victor Oelen,  NFIC-Cincinnati,  David  Brooman,
NFIC-Denver, and Barrett Benson, NFIC-Denver.   Treatment plant
personnel were interviewed on November 22 from 8:30  am to  11:30 am
to ascertain the exact nature of operating problems  experienced with
the sludge lagoons and trickling filters.  Representatives of the
City and Brown and Caldwell were interviewed and  construction records
examined from 11:30 to 6:30 pm on November 22.  Personnel  present included:
    Mr. Thomas J. Dosh, Director of Public Works, Stockton;
    Mr. Art Vieira, Superintendent, MWQCP, Stockton;
    Dr. David Caldwell, President,  Brown & Caldwell;
    Mr. Albert R. Huff, Area Supervisor, Brown &  Caldwell;
    Mr. Paul J. Kramer, Resident Engineer, Brown  & Caldwell;
    Mr. Frank Wilson,  Assistant Resident-Engineer, Brown & Caldwell;
    Mr. Victor Jelen,  NFIC-C;
    Mr. David Brooman, NFIC-D;
    Mr. Barrett Benson, NFIC-D.
Two inspectors, Mr. Jose Casillas and Mr. Mike Pooley,  were also inter-
viewed by NFIC personnel, from 7 pm to 10 pm on November 22.
    In all interviews, the discussions were limited  to  the areas
listed in the October 18 memo.

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ENGINEERING EVALUATIONS
    The evaluations are divided into three sections, Sludge Lagoons,
Trickling Filter Modifications, and Building Additions and Modifications.
Each specific question raised by the auditors is stated and is followed
by the discussion.
A.  Construction of Sludge Lagoons
Question No. A-l
    "During the course of our audit, several operational problems
concerning the sludge lagoons have been brought to our attention.
We therefore would appreciate an independent technical determination
as to whether the construction work completed on the sludge lagoons is
acceptable and has been accomplished in accordance with the approved
plans and specifications."
Discussion
    With the exception of the difficulties with the telescopic weirs
(Question A-2), the capacity of the pump station sump pump and the
repair of malfunctioning variable speed drive controls on the sludge
pumps (Question A-4), the construction work completed on the sludge
lagoons was accomplished in accordance with the approved plans and
specifications.
    The major operational problems encountered to date with these
lagoons are attributable to poor quality control in the construction
of the telescopic weir assemblies and inherent problems with the
removal of thickened sludge from the lagoon bottom.  The weir assemblies
may possibly be remedied in the field by the City.   If these remedies do

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                                                                     10
not solve the problem,  a redesign  may  be  required.   The  sludge  removal
problems are more complex.
    Sludge removal,  pumping,  and transport  is  a  major engineering
challenge.  Digested sewage sludge,  if allowed to  settle for a  sufficient
period of time,  will separate into two distinct  phases,  a liquid or
supernatant layer, and  a concentrated  solids  layer.   Influent digested
sludge from the  digester to the lagoons would  normally have a solids
concentration in the range  of 3.5  to 4.5%.  Although no  data was
available for review, it could be  expected  that  the  solids concentration
at the lagoon bottom and in the sludge drawn  off through the sludge
suction piping would be in  the range of 8-10%.   The  increased solids
concentration causes the concentrated  sludge  to  act  like a viscous
mass rather than a fluid.   It is more  difficult  to pump, has thioxotropic
properties which cause  it to  react like a gel,  and will  assume  a natural
angle of repose  under water.   The  latter  property  causes it to  deposit
in banks under the supernatant surface rather  than to flow evenly in
the lagoon to form a layer  of equal  thickness.   It also  causes  coning
at submerged suction lines  (discussed  in  Question  A-4).
    To overcome  the  sludge  property of natural  angle of  repose, sludge
containment vessels  (e.g.,  digesters)  are often  constructed with conical
bottoms with drawoff piping near the cone apex.  In  the  interviews  with
the consulting engineers, the use  of steep  lagoon  sides  was discussed.
The consultants  said that this sort of design  was  considered, but
rejected due to  excessive ground water contamination problems,  a
reasonable explanation  considering the proximity of  the  San Joaquin
River to the plant site.  They designed multiple withdrawal pipes

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                                                                     11
(four per lagoon) to offset the coning problems.   It is questionable
whether this approach is totally satisfactory since the coning effect
is localized near the suction pipe opening.   New sludge added to the
lagoon will fill in these coned areas and be removed during the next
pumping cycle.  The old, established sludge  will  not reach the cone
influence area.  The effective sludge residence time in the lagoon is
thus effectively reduced.
  •  To overcome these problems some municipalities utilize actual
mobile dredging equipment for removal of concentrated sludge from
lagoons.  The Metropolitan Sanitary District of Greater Chicago has
over 200 acres of sludge lagoons in Fulton County, Illinois.  A
commercial river channel dredge is used to remove the concentrated
solids from the lagoons.  Dredging is the most effective method of
removing the concentrated sludge from lagoons because the suction port
can be moved to the solids rather than attempting to make the solids
flow to the suction port.  The operating and capital costs for such
systems are, of course,  higher.
Question No. A-2
    "Visual observations and discussions have indicated that the
telescopic weir in one of the sludge lagoons was  not operating properly.
We would like to have the extent of this problem reviewed.  If possible,
we would also like technical comments as to  the cause of the problem and
a determination as to who has the responsibility  to correct it."

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                                                                    12
Diicussion
    1.  There are two digested sludge holding lagoons.   The west
lagoon is designated Lagoon No. 1 by plant personnel, the east lagoon,
Lagoon No. 2.  Each lagoon has two digested sludge inlet pipes, four
digested sludge drawoff pipes, and two supernatant drawoff pipes.
The telescopic weirs in question {four total) are located on the
supernatant drawoff piping systems.
    Detail A/G5, Contract Drawing G5, (Appendix) illustrates the design
of the four telescopic weir units.  The discharge weir unit has a
specified outside diameter of 29-7/8 inches and is to fit inside a riser
pipe with an inside diameter of 30 inches.   A fabrication note on
Section 1/G5 specifies that the weir and riser pipe should be "Fabricated
for uniform clearance of 1/16" plus  or minus 1/32" over the entire circum-
ference."  This tolerance is apparently specified to permit the weir to
move within the riser pipe without binding and yet minimize the leakage
between the two components when the  weir unit is positioned above the
minimum adjustable height.
    The function of all of the telescopic weir units is to maintain
the water surface elevation within the lagoons at any level between
El.94.0 and El,98.0.  During normal  plant operating periods, the lagoons
may be operated at a reduced level (e.g., near El.94.0) to provide
additional volume for digester upsets, increased digested sludge
volumes from seasonal loads, etc. as they occur.  As the sludge blanket
in the lagoons increases,.for instance during the rainy season when the
sludge drying beds cannot be loaded  heavily or frequently, the lagoons
may be operated at higher elevations to maintain the desired sludge

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                                                                  13
solids/supernatant layer separation.   Also,  by  positioning the  two weirs
in a given lagoon at different elevations,  the  flow pattern through the
lagoon can be changed, withdrawing supernatant  from either the  northeast
or southeast corner of the lagoon.
    This operational flexibility is dependent on the weirs not  leaking
appreciable quantities of water through the annular space between
the weir unit and the riser pipe.   When such leakage does occur, and
the leakage rate exceeds the lagoon influent rate,  it becomes  impossible
to maintain the lagoon surface elevation above  El.94.0,  the top of the
riser pipe, by use of the telescopic weirs.
    During the site inspection, the tops of the telescopic weirs in
Lagoon No. 1 were at elevations approximately 3" (NE weir) and  9"
{SE weir) above the lagoon water surface.   If at least one of  these weirs
was leaking, then this weir/lagoon surface  elevation discrepancy would
exist.  Conversely, if both weirs  were watertight,  then  the lagoon level
should have been at the elevation  of the NE weir provided that  (!)
evaporation and concentrated sludge drawoff rates did not exceed digested
sludge influent rates and {2} the  weirs were not raised  to higher
elevations just prior to the inspection.
    Both weir assemblies in Lagoon No. 2 were totally submerged during
the site inspection.  This situation results when both valves  are  closed
on the 8" supernatant drawoff lines downstream  from the telescopic
weirs.  Since the weirs were submerged, visual  examination of  their
leakage potential could not be made.   Discussions with plant operating

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                                                                     14
 personnel  have verified  that  all  four  telescopic weirs leak  excessively
 and that it was necessary  to  install the above-mentioned valves  to
 control  the lagoon  elevations and discharge flow rates.
     The  cause of the problem  appears to be one of poor fabrication of
 the weir units and/or the  riser  pipe units.  The 1/16" ;* 1/32" allowable
 clearance between the weir and riser units was apparently  not met.
     The  contractor  (C. N.  Peterson Company) tried to correct the weir
 leakage  problem with gaskets  previous  to the installation  (by the City)
 of the valves.  These gaskets failed and caused operational  problems
 due to binding.  The City  plans  to weld a stainless steel  cap ring
 onto the riser pipe.   This ring  will have an inside diameter 1/8 inch
 larger than the field measured outside diameter of the corresponding
 weir unit.   Post modification testing  of the individual weirs will
 determine if the leakage problem is sufficiently reduced to  eliminate
 further  design modifications.  It is our understanding that  the  City
 will bear the expense of the  cap ring  modification since the contractor
 paid the City for the installation of  the valves.  In our  opinion, if
 the modifications achieve  the specified 1/16" +_ 1/32" clearance  between
 the ring cap and weir, the contract requirements will be satisfied.
     In the  design of a similar telescopic weir assembly for  the  trickling
 filter modification contract  at  Stockton, the consulting engineer called
.for three 0-ring gaskets on the  riser  pipe unit (Section 2/M2, Contract
 Drawing  M2).  These gaskets form a seal between the weir and riser units.
 The detailer did not specify  clearance tolerances for this telescopic
 weir unit,  nor did-he even specify the weir outer diameter or length.
 Gasket composition  and method of attachment are also not specified.

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                                                                     15
    If the ring cap modifications for the lagoon telescopic weirs do
not solve the leakage problem, the.consul ting engineer should be brought
to task for improper design and required to change the weir design to
solve the problem.
Question No.  A-3
    "It was observed that the clean-out valves for the sludge lagoons
were located in the pump station which were considerably below the
lagoon water level.  It was explained that the pumping station would be
flooded if the clean-out valves were uncapped.  In addition, it was
suggested that the cleanouts served no useful purpose since the
lagoon would have to be drained before any clean-out work could be
performed.  We would like a technical determination as to whether
clean-out valves are usable without creating a safety hazard to personnel
in the pumping station.  If this is a .problem, we would appreciate a
determination as to whether it was attributable to a design error or
to the quality of construction and how it can be corrected".
Discussion
    The plan view and section I/Ml of the sludge pumping station are
from Sheet Ml of the contract plans and specifications (Appendix).  The
eight 8-inch diameter pipes pass through the east and west walls of the
pump station (four pipes through each wall) at a center!ine (c) elevation
of 85.00.   These eight pipes are the sludge drawoff pipes from lagoons
1  and 2.  Just inside the station walls, each pipe is connected to an
8-inch diameter pipe Y with a victaulic cap and coupling on the Y leg.

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                                                                     16
                                                                     *
These Y's were designed  for  use as  clean-out  ports  in  case  the  sludge
drawoff pipes should become  severely clogged.   The  existing sludge  suction
line cleanouts were installed  according  to  specifications.
    Shut-off (isolation) valves were not specified  between  the  clean-out
Y's and the incoming sludge  piping.   Rather the shut-off valves were
specified downstream from the  cleanouts.   Since the normal operating
surface level of the lagoons is El.94.0  to  El.98.0, the static  pressure
head which exists at the victaulic  caps  is  computed as follows:
    minimum static head  = 94.0'-85.0'-1.5'  (Sin 45°)
                        = 7.9  ft =  3.4 psig
    maximum static head  = 98.0'-85.0'-1.5 (Sin 45°)
                        = 11.9 ft = 5.2  psig
The column of water formed by  the lagoon contents exerts a  constant
pressure (assuming the pipe  is not  plugged) of between 3.4  and  5.2
pounds per square inch on the  clean-out  caps.   Since there  are  no
isolation valves between the lagoons and the  clean-out points,  it is
not possible to open the cleanouts  once  the lagoons are filled  without
the lagoon contents entering the pump station structure.  However,
if the particular pipe is clogged,  lagoon material  cannot flow  in the
pipe.  If the pipe is severely clogged and  a  rodding tool is used to
clean out the line via the clean-out port,  once the obstruction is
removed, the pressure head would force the  lagoon contents  through  the
pipe into the station.

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                                                                   17
     As designed and installed,  the  clean-out  ports  cannot serve a
useful purpose unless the particular lagoon  is drained.   Each  of the
victrauliccaps has  been stenciled  with" a  warning  "DRAIN  POND BEFORE
REMOVING".   Although the warning may deter an  unfortunate mishap,  it
does not constitute a fail-safe  situation.   To drain the lagoon, it
would be necessary  to isolate  it from service  and transfer its
contents via the station pumps to  either  the drying  beds or the other
lagoon.  Alternately, the lagoon contents could be drained by portable
pump to the other lagoon or to a landfill.   The consulting engineers
stated that the Y connections  were only to be  used for cleanouts
once the lagoon was drained.   The  Y's would  allow the operator to clean
the pipe from either the station end or lagoon end without having to
break into  the pipe in the pump  station.   In our  opinion, draining a
lagoon to be able to utilize a cleanout does not  constitute a  good design
and a safety hazard remotely exists  since isolation  valves were not
included in the design.
    Provisions were made by the  design engineers  to  bring City water
and compressed air  to the pumping  station structure.   A  two-inch water
line is tapped into the lagoon sludge drawoff  piping.  It is common
practice at treatment plants to  use  compressed air and/or water pressure
to blow out sludge  lines which are not excessively clogged.  Plant
personnel report that this technique has  been  already utilized with
success on  this piping.  However,  pressure gages  should  be installed
on the backflush piping so that  the  operators  can evaluate the back
pressure being applied to the  clogged pipe.

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                                                                  18
                                                                     t
    For a fail-safe design,  the  cleanouts  should  have  been  routed
above the surface elevation  of the  lagoons  or  valved upstream.   Due
to the structural configuration  of  the  pump station, it would be difficult
to revise the existing piping to accomplish this.   Also,  since there
are no isolation valves on the cleanouts,  it would  be  difficult to
connect extensions to the existing  cleanouts without flooding the
structure.
    As a possible solution,  a special cap  and  isolation valve could  be
installed on the leg of the  Y and eliminating  the vitraulic cap.  The
special cap would require packing around the cleanout  port  to allow  use
of a cleaning rod.  However, since  the  cleanouts  would only be used  in
rare instances,  modifications are not warranted at  this time.
    Three items  of concern about the air and water  piping systems  are
listed below. One, no connection to'an air supply  is  indicated on the
drawings.  Rather, the terminus  of  this pipe is indicated as a cap
located near the existing City water hydrant (Detail J/G3,  Contract
Drawing G3).  Two, a hose bib or coupling  is not  specified  on the  sludge
suction piping which could be used  for  connection from the  existing  air
line to the clogged sludge suction  line.    Three, a vacuum  breaker in
the 2" water line connection to  the sludge  piping is not  indicated between
the sludge-piping connection and the City water hydrant.  A cross
connection is thus developed by  this design and the potential for  back
siphonage of lagoon contents into the City  water  supply does exist.

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                                                                   19
Question No. A-4
    "Plant operating personnel commented that they were unhappy with
operations of the sludge lagoon from several standpoints.  One of these
was that the sump pump was not able to effectively remove sludge.
Another was that the pumping station was causing problems since it had
a greater capacity than could actually be used.   We would appreciate a
technical evaluation of the validity of the above problems and how they
can be corrected."
Discussion
    Sump PumjJ - The sump pump referred to is located in the southwest
corner of the sludge pumping station (Contract Drawing Ml).  Its function
is JlQt to pump sludge, but to remove from the station any spills,
wash-up water, foundation leakage,  etc.  which may be collected by the
floor drain system.
    The discharge piping from this  sump pump (pipe 3"SD) is routed overhead
in the station, through the south station wall,  under the berm roadway
between the two lagoons, and tied in the 8" supernatant line from lagoon
No.  1's southeast telescopic weir (Detail  M/G3 on Drawing G4).   The
sump pump is thus supposed to discharge the station sump contents through
this line to the 8" supernatant line which was originally designed for
gravity flow.
    The City has installed two 8" shut-off valves on the two 8" supernatant
"gravity" lines.  When these valves are closed,  supernatant completely
fills these 8" lines and the telescopic weir riser pipes up to the
elevation of the lagoon surfaces (El  94.0 to 98.0).  Therefore the
sump pump must pump against a static head between 13.5 and 17.5 feet

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                                                                    20
with the current operational  mode.   In the gravity mode,  it would have
had to pump against a static  lift of approximately 11.5 feet.   On page
C38 of the actual contract specifications, the sump pump is specified
as follows:
    "(2)  Pump
          Sump pump shall  be  of the submersible motor-driven,  non-clog
    type.  Pump shall be capable of discharging 60 gpm against a total
  •  head of 20 feet when driven by a 4-pole motor of at least  2 horse-
    power. .  ."
The specified pump, if operating correctly, should be capable  of
pumping against the maximum static head of 17.5 ft discussed above.
Calculations  for dynamic head (i.e., pipe and fittings resistance to
60 gpm flow)  indicate a maximum dynamic head of approximately  2.5
ft.   Therefore, if the sump pump was pumptig 60 gpm against the static
head of Lagoon No. 1 at maximum surface elevation of 98.0, the total
pumping head  should be approximately 20.0 ft., the specified pump head.
Based on these calculations,  the sump pump should be capable of dis-
charging the  sump contents (if the contents don't exceed 60 gpm) through
the existing  piping to Lagoon No.  1  via the southeast telescopic weir.
A pressure test on the pump should be conducted to verify if the pump is
capable of discharging against the specified 20 ft of head at  60 gpm.
    A suggested alternate  to  the existing piping scheme is to  run the
discharge line to a discharge point above the surface of Lagoon No.  1
near the pump station.   There is no reason that the sump  contents
cannot be returned directly to the lagoon.  The discharge point should

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                                                    •                 21
be at a point higher than the maximum  lagoon  surface elevation  of  El  98.0.
If the pump is capable cf discharging  60  gpm  against 20  ft  of total  head,
a static lift of 17.5 ft plus a  dynamic head  of  <  2.5 ft (reduced  from
existing value because of reduced  equivalent  pipe  length) should be  no
problem.  Had the design engineer  anticipated the  non-gravity flow
situation with the 8" supernatant  line, he probably  would have  preferred
to discharge the sump back to the  lagoon  in the  original  design.   A
question could be asked as to whether  this alternate should not have been
the most cost effective original design.
    Capacity of Pumping Station  -  Direct  questioning of  plant operating
personnel revealed no "pumping capacity"  problems  with the  sludge
pumping equipment.  The pumping  problems  which were  mentioned are  as
follows:
    1)  A vernier adjustment on  the  sludge pump  motors was  broken
and hence the variable speed pumps were not variable. This item
is on the contractors punch list and will  be  corrected before he is
issued final payment.
    2)  The sludge pumps must be turned up to maximum speed before
they will pump jludge from the basins.  Digested sludge  forms a dense,
thixotropic mass when it is allowed  to settle for a  period  of time.
This mass would tend to form in  and  over  the  sludge  suction piping
after each pumping cycle.   It is conceivable  that the pumps must be
turned up to maximum speed initially in order to free this  obstruction
and refluidize the sludge solids.  This fact  should  be included in the
plant operations manual.  Once the sludge begins to  flow however,  it
should be possible to reduce the speed of the pump to obtain the desired
flow rate.

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                                                                    22
    3}  The sludge pumps will  pump dense solids  when first activated
but soon the solids density falls  off and eventually only  supernatant
can be pumped.  This is not an uncommon occurrence when  sludge is  pumped
from a containment via a fixed suction pipe.   The phenomenon  is called
"coning".  As the sludge over  the  pipe is pumped away,  the sludge
remaining in the vicinity of the pipe opening assumes its  natural  angle
of repose instead of flowing as a  liquid into the pipe.  The  result
is an inverted cone of sludge  with its apex at the pipe  opening.   When
this occurs, supernatant breaks through and is drawn into  the suction
pipe diluting the sludge solids.
    Each of the lagoons was designed with four drawoff pipes  at different
locations in the lagoon.  When coning is detected with one drawoff pipe,
the operator should switch to  an alternate pipe  location.   No instrumentation
or visual aids are included in the design to permit the  operator to
know when coning is occurring  at a particular sludge drawoff  pipe.  Radio
communication between men positioned at the sludge pump  discharge  at
the sludge drying beds and the pump station operator could be established.
However, this would tie up two men during the pumping operation.   A
sludge density meter and/or sightglasses could be provided to facilitate
the detection of sludge coning.
Question No. A-5
    "A total of seven change orders have been initiated  under the  C.
Norman Peterson contract and approved by the resident engineer and
the City.  These change orders were not submitted to the California

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                                                                    23
State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB)  for approval  until
September 4, 1974, although some of the change orders pertained to
work performed in later 1973.  We would appreciate a technical  deter-
mination of the acceptability of these change orders and  a determination
as to whether the work included on the change orders has  actually been
performed.   In this regard, it should be noted that the SWRCB has assigned
a civil engineer, Mr. Joe Rodriquez, to review the validity of the change
orders."
Discussion
    As noted in the question, the seven change orders on  this contract
plus those pertaining to other contract work at this plant site are
being evaluated by Mr.  Rodriquez.  Mr. Rodriquez is to submit a report
on his findings, including recommendations as to approval or disapproval
of the change orders, to the Western Area Audit Office.
    NFIC personnel met with Mr.  Rodriquez on November 15, 1974 and
again on November 21, 1974 to discuss these change orders.  He is still
attempting to obtain from the City of Stockton all required back-up
information which pertains to the change orders.  Mr. Rodriquez'
expertise and method of approach appear compatible with the NFIC
investigation.   Any additional parallel investigation by  NFIC personnel
would be redundant at this time.  It is proposed that NFIC personnel
review the completed report prepared by Mr.  Rodriquez and submit comments
on it to audit personnel.

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                                                                     24
B.  Trickling Filter Modifications
Question No.  B-1
    "During our review,  several  operating  problems  concerning the trickling
filters were quite evident.   In  order to ascertain  the  full  extent of
these problems, we would like a  technical  evaluation as to whether the
construction work completed  on the  trickling  filters is acceptable and
has been accomplished in accordance with the  approved plans  and
specifications."
Discussion
    Certain inaccessible details could not be evaluated.   Examples
of such items include electrical conduit,  the filter underdrain system,
interior filter wall surfaces below the media level, construction details
inside the filter recirculation  distribution  structure, etc.   Likewise,
time was not available to fully  evaluate all  possible operating modes of
the systems*  nor was it appropriate for NFIC  personnel  to dictate the
plant operating modes.  However, with the  exception of  the specific
items discussed in Question  Nos. B-2 through  B-10 which follow, the
overall conclusion reached after NFIC's site  inspection and  review of
the facilities operating history is that the  contractor has  made a
conscientious attempt to construct  the filters and  attendant systems
according to the contract plans  and specifications.
    The filter wall leakage  problems discussed in Question Nos. B-2
through B-6 and the check valve/recirculation pump  problems  discussed
in Question No. B-7 are the  most significant  areas  where contractor
arid/or equipment supplier error  may have been committed.

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                                                                     25
Question No.  B-2
    "There is substantial  effluent leakage and green algae growth on
the outside wall of trickling filter No.  4.   Although this situation
has existed for almost one year,  the leakage has not been eliminated.
In view of the substantial problem, we would appreciate a technical
determination as to whether the problem was the result of poor construction
or basic design errors."
Discussion
    After inspection of the filter in question and having had discussions
with the job inspectors, the consulting engineers, and the wall coating
material suppliers, it is  the opinion of  NFIC that the leakage experienced
is the result of basic design error complicated by "hurry up" construction
techniques in order to place the  filter in operation by the beginning
of the 1973 food processing season.  The  problem essentially comes down
to the original choice of the interior wall  sealing material and, once
this choice was made, improperly  defining in the specifications the
method of wall surface preparation which  would be compatible with this
choice.
    The following sequence of quotes from the contract specifications
must be followed in order to unravel the  painting requirements for
the interior surfaces of the filter walls:   Page C60; SECTION C8-PAINTING
    "(2)  Concrete and Masonry Surfaces
          Concrete and masonry surfaces of trickling filter distribution
    structure No. 1 and trickling filters Nos. 4, 5 and 6 shall be painted
    as specified in Section C8.06."

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                                                                26

Page C66, Subsection C8.06 Finish Schedule

"(2)  Trickling Filters

      (b)  Modified Filters Nos.  4,  5 and 6      Paint System

           Walls, existing and new
           Outside and top ring beam                  D
           Inside                                     B"

The inside walls of the modified filters are thus to recieve Paint
System B.

Page C63, Subsection C8.05 Paint Systems

"(3)  Coal Tar Epoxy (System B)

      (a)  Surface. Concrete or masonry, interior or exterior
           corrosive hydrogen sulfide atmosphere, black.

      (b)  Surface Preparation.  As  specified in sub-article
         .  (8.04(1)(c).

      (c)  Coatings

           1.  Amercoat Alternate.  Prime coat shall consist of
               one coat of coal tar  epoxy resin coating, Amercoat
               No. 78 resin.  Finish coats shall  consist of two coats
               of coal tar epoxy resin coating, Amercoat No.  78
               alternating red and black colors.

           2.  Engard Alternate.  . .

           3.  Koppers A1ternatg. .  .

      (d)  Notes:

           1.  All surfaces shall have aged 60 days  and dried to
               a maximum moisture content of 14 percent prior to
               application of any paint.

           2.  Prime coat shall be thinned and applied at the rate
               of approximately 200-300 square feet  per gallon
               depending on surface  condition.   Finish coats shall
               be applied at the rate of 100 square  feet per gallon.

           3.  Drying time shall  be  as recommended by the paint
               manufacturer."

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                                                                     27
    Note:   The Engard and  Koppers  alternates  were  not  quoted  verbatim
    for the sake of brevity and  since  the Amercoat alternate  was  the  one
    used on Filter No.  4.   These alternates were essentially  the  same as
    the Amercoat alternate, the  Engard alternate using Engard 463 Black
    and the Koppers alternate using  Koppers 300-M  Black.
    Page C61.  C8.04 Construction
    "(c)  Preparation of Concrete  and  Masonry Surfaces^  All  concrete and
          masonry surfaces which require coating or painting  shall  be
          dry  and shall  be prepared  by light  'brush-off  sandblasting.
          Sandblasting shall  be  sufficient to remove all  dirt,  dust,
          efflorescence, oil  and grease stains and other  foreign  substances
          and  shall provide adequate surface  roughening for good  adhesion
          between the concrete and coating or paint.   All  cavities  and
          voids shall be repaired  and  all surfaces troweled to  finish
          required."
    In the specification quote above,  m> specific  surface finish  material
is detailed for the interior walls of  Filter  No. 4, said  surface  finish
coat to be applied prior to the  Amercoat prime and finish coats.   NFIC
personnel  contacted the technical  development personnel at the  manufacturers
of Amercoat (Ameron Products) in Brea, California  to determine  if this
was a proper application of Amercoat No. 78.   The  following information
was obtained:
    1}  Amercoat No. 78 can be used  as a water resistant  coating  on
concrete block  walls.   It is not  intended to be a waterproofing  seal
where water pressure against a surface is anticipated. It will however
form a "water barrier" against droplets, vapors, etc., when applied
correctly and  on a surface which has been correctly prepared.
    2}  Amercoat No. 78 becomes  non-flexible  as it cures.  Although it
can withstand  minor tension and  compression strains, it will  crack  under
substantial stress.

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                                                                    28
    3) .The most significant point discussed is  that Amercoat No.  78
must be applied only to surfaces  which have been completely prepared
to remove all  major ajid pinhole void spaces.  For major cracks,  gouges,
holes, etc., troweling of Ameron  New Clad 109 epoxy paste filler material
is recommended.  For minor or pinhole voids a squeegee application of
Ameron New Clad No. 1871  is recommended.
    4)  A thinned primer coat of  Amercoat No. 78 coal tar epoxy will
not adequately seal all pinhole voids such as those which comprise the
interstitial matrix of a concrete block.   In many cases the visible
pinhole is only the minor diameter of an  interior void.  Insufficient
sealing material gets through the pinhole to coat the interior surface
of the void.
    From the above discussions, it can be concluded that the interior
wall surface preparation specified in the contract documents was
incorrect and/or incomplete.  All surface voids  were riot required to
be filled by squeegee application of New  Clad No. 1871 (or equal).  In
fact, the question may be raised  as to whether the pointed grout joints
between the masonry blocks do indeed form "large voids" which should
have been filled with New Clad No. 109.
    The choice of Amercoat No. 78 or any  other coal tar epoxy resin
for this application is debatable.  Considering  that this material cures
to a relatively inflexible coating subject to cracking under stress and
impact, a better choice would have been an epoxy vinyl coating with a
silicone-based sealant.  However, had the brick  surface been properly
prepared to eliminate voids, the  Amercoat No. 78 coating would have
provided an adequate seal.

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                                                                   29
    NFIC personnel  discussed the  Amercoat No.  78 application procedures
with both the job inspectors and  the  consulting engineers.   Several
contract specification omissions  committed by  the contractor were noted
as follows:
    1)  Alternating colors of black-red-black  were not utilized with
the prime and two finish coats of Amercoat No.  78.
   . 2)  The  block wall surface was not  light sandblasted prior to
coating application.
    3)  The  mortar block wall  and concrete cap beams  were not allowed
to age for 60 days  before the Amercoat  No.  78  was applied.   Similarly
adequate tests were not conducted to  determine if the moisture content
of the walls was less than 14 percent before the coating was applied.
Excess moisture inhibits bond between coating  and surface.
    4)  Adequate drying time was  not  allotted  between coats of Amercoat
No. 78.  The inspector reported that  the two finish coats were applied
during the same day.
    These contractor omissions would  have contributed significantly
to an unsatisfactory coating application had the surface been properly
prepared initially.  However,  the surface void problem overshadows these
considerations.
    A last item evaluated by NFIC personnel  regarding the Amercoat No.
78 coating concerns the final  inspection techniques employed by the
inspectors and consulting engineers.  The consulting  engineers maintain
that the inspector was told to perform  a low voltage  holiday check on

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                                                                     30
the completed coating prior to final  acceptance.   The inspector stated
that though such equipment was available on site,  he was never instructed
to use it on the masonry walls.   When the consulting engineer's representative
was questioned as to the technique involved with  the low voltage
holiday detection system on masonry or concrete,  he stated that one pole
of the detector is connected to a reinforcing rod in the structure and
the opposite pole to the wet sponge used to scan  the coating surface.
Sufficient moisture exists in the concrete block  or concrete structure
to complete the electrical circuit should a coating imperfection be
detected.
    NFIC personnel discussed this procedure with  the technical development
personnel at Ameron Products.   They stated that low voltage holiday
detectors are not recommended for inspection of Amercoat No. 78 coatings
on any material  surface.   Only high voltage (15,000 volt)  spark test
equipment is recommended for such testing.
Question No. B-3                                                         :
    "It has been suggested that the modified trickling filters (Nos. 4,
5, and 6} will  not operate at their designed capacity.   We would like
a determination as to whether the filters can operate at their full
capacity.  If filters Nos. 5 and 6 can operate at full  capacity for
any length of time, could the effect  on the outside walls  of these filters
be the same as  on filter No.  4?"
Discussion
    The plant operating  personnel were specifically questioned by NFIC
personnel on repeated occasions  as to whether the  filter units Nos.  4, 5
and 6 have operated and  will  operate  at their design capacity (it was

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                                                                    31
assumed that design capacity means  the  maximum  hydraulic  capacity of
24 MGD per filter).  The plant personnel  repeatedly  answered that the
units could perform at rated hydraulic  capacity and  that  acceptable BOD
removals of 65-70% through the filters  were routine  occurrences.   In
general, these personnel appeared satisfied with the wastewater treatment
being obtained by the units.  They  also stated  that  at no time were
filters Nos. 5 and 6 run at reduced flow rates  to "cover" for any
leakage problems with the filter walls.  The filters are  operated to
meet the treatment demand on plant.
    During the site visit, only filters Nos. 5  and 6 were operating.
Filter No. 4 was down due to repairs to the structural members of the
rotating distribution arms.  The sewage flow rates through the plant
were quite low, in the range of 10-16 MGD.   The speed reducers on the
variable speed pumps which supply filters Nos.  5 and 6 were adjusted
to a setting of approximately 1300  rpm  which corresponds  to a pumping
rate of approximately 13 MGD.  Visual observation of the  spray distri-
bution patterns atop both filters indicated that an  even  pattern of liquid
was being applied to the filter media,  all  distribution pipe ports
were open and spraying wastewater,  and  the spray pattern  was reaching
the inner wall surface.  Visual examination of  the exterior wall  surfaces
revealed several leakage spots on these walls also.   The  leakage was
by no means as severe as that exhibited by filter No. 4.
    It is logical that during the canning season, when plant flow rates
are at a maximum and all filters must be run at higher application rates,
more wastewater per unit time will  be splashed  against the interior wall

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                                                                      32
surfaces of the filters.   Wall  leakage which  exists  under  low  flow
conditions will be magnified  by increased  flow  rates,  but  it was  not
possible to ascertain  to  what degree.  The Sikaflex  lining material
utilized on the interior  walls  of filters  Nos.  5  and 6 appears to have
significantly reduced  the leakage problem.  Although filters Nos. 5
and 6 have been in operation  one year less than filter No. 4,  it  would
appear that leakage will not be as  great  as  on filter No. 4.
    The design for these  trickling filters and  recirculation pumps
systems did not include any flow measuring devices.   After the primary
effluent flow meters,  there are no downstream flow measuring devices
for the secondary treatment system.  Without  such devices  it  is not
possible to accurately determine the flows being  applied to each  trickling
filter, the recirculation rates, or  the  relative  flow split between
the old and new trickling filters.  It was not  possible during the  time
available for this evaluation for NFIC personnel  to  accurately determine
if the specified hydraulic capacities can  be  achieved by the filters
themselves and/or their attendant pumping  units.   However, there  was no
reason to believe that the filters could not  be operated to full  capacity.
The filters may not be operated at maximum capacity  at all times  due to
the cost of the energy required to lift  the wastewater to the  top of the
filters.  A portion of the wastewater  is currently treated in  the three
6-foot depth trickling filters.

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                                                                  33
Question No. B-4
    "We would also like a determination as to what effect the effluent
leakage will have on the structural  strength of the outside concrete
block walls of filter No. 4."
Discussion
    The organic acids contained or generated in the leaking sewage could
have the effect of attacking and leaching the mortar joint to the point
where only the silicon remains.  The wetting and drying of the rebars
exposed to oxygen would accelerate corrosion of the bars and weaken
adherence between the concrete grout and rebars.   However, this could take
a number of years before it would significantly affect the structure.
    A review of the construction details shows vertical rebars every
4 ft. around the perimeter of the filter and the holes in the block
filled with concrete grout.  This in effect constitutes a reinforced
concrete pillar running the height of the wall every 4 ft.  This pillar
is tied into the existing foundation wall by drilling and grouting at
the bottom and given support at the top by a reinforced concrete cap
beam that runs around the entire filter, tying it together at the top.
    Details of the wall construction are shown by Drawing Sheet No.  S 7
trickling filters Nos.  4, 5, 6 sections.
    As determined by a review of the drawing and construction pictures
and questions of inspectors and the resident engineer, the walls were
constructed as per specs and drawings.   However,  as previously discussed
in Question B-2, the leakage is a result of design error.

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                                                                      34
Question No. B-5
    "In connection with B.4 above,  we would appreciate a determination
of the ability of the existing concrete wall and foundation of filter
No. 4 to withstand the additional weight resulting from the effluent
leakage.  This is important since  the concrete block walls were built
on the old filter foundation."
Discussion
    A maximum additional  weight due to absorption of the leakage was
computed to be about 200# per lineal  ft. or 16.67 #/lineal in. or
2.08 #/sq. in.  on the old concrete foundation.
    This would increase the loading from 13.02 #/sq. in.  to 15.1 #/sq.  in.
    A review of the "Soils Investigations Report" by J. H. Kleinfelder
and Associates, indicates the soil  bearing capacity will easily with-
stand the additional loading.
    It is our opinion that there is sufficient design safety factor to
absorb this additional loading without significant impact.
    Inspection of the foundation walls of filter No. 4 that is already
loaded with the additional weight shows no sign of weakening.
Question No. B-6
    "In view of the leakage of the  concrete block walls, we would
appreciate knowing whether cement blocks are generally noted for their
ability to withstand absorption.  In  addition, we would appreciate any
comments which you may have as to whether there is a less costly and
more effective way to construct high  trickling filter towers."

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                                                                    35
Discussion
    Part A - Concrete blocks of the expanded shale type specified for
this contract are not noted for their ability to withstand absorption.
To verify the extent of absorption  which can be expected from a typical
block, portions of a sample block from the job site were obtained during
the NFIC site visit.  These samples were returned to the NFIC-Cincinnati
laboratories and subjected to the ASTM testing procedures for water
aborption. ,The additional weight due to absorption is discussed in
Question No. B-5.
    Part B - An alternate to the masonry brick for constructing a high
trickling filter tower wall is to utilize a structural steel  support
skeleton with corregated fiberglass panels for wall sheeting.  The
advantages of such an installation  include relatively low weight, ease
and speed of construction, and relatively low cost.  The disadvantages
include poor aesthetics, leakage at joints, and the potential for cracking
of the fiberglass due to ultraviolet radiation exposure.
    To overcome the ultraviolet and aesthetics problems, a sandwich
wall construction has been utilized on some filters.  The interior wall
surface is constructed of regular fiberglass below the filter media
surface and special ultraviolet resistant fiberglass above the media.
The exterior wall surface can be pebble board, rough hewn plywood, etc.
These walls are light-weight but considerably more expensive.
    Another alternate method is to  pour monolithic reinforced concrete
walls.  Advantages of this method include aesthetics and durability.
Disadvantages include increased weight, forming costs and labor time,

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                                                                   36
and overall  cost.   However,  since  there  is  little  horizontal  load,
the method is not  justifiable.
    A high wall  trickling filter was  built  in  Ontario,  Oregon using
double T prestressed reinforced concrete sections.   There are no leaks
and the cost was equivalent  to fiberglass plus steel  framed walls.
This type of construction may not  have been compatible  with the Stockton
plant due to the weight limitations of the  existing  foundation.
    The masonry  brick alternate chosen for  this particular contract
combines low wall  weight with high aesthetic value.   Its  major dis-
advantages are time of construction and  the obvious  leakage problems
encountered.  The latter problem can  be  minimized  with  the appropriate
choice and/or application of wall  sealing compound.
    Of the four  possible methods of wall construction discussed, the
concrete block alternative was probably  the least  costly  at the time of
the original design.
Question No. B-7
    "We observed that the recirculation  pumps  for  the trickling filters
make a tremendous  thudding noise when they  are turned off. In addition,
it was stated that the pumps were  continually  going  out of operation.
One of the reasons given was that  the motors on the  trickling filter
recirculation pumps were operating at a  higher amperage than  they were
designed.  We would appreciate an  evaluation of the  significance of the
pump problems and a determination  of  the effect the  high  amperage will
have on the pump motors." -

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                                                                    37
Discussion
    Part A - The "thudding"  noise was  heard  by  the  NFIC personnel.
Not only is the noise very loud,  but the  entire filter  distribution
structure and surrounding ground  surface  tremble when the noise occurs.
    The problem can be traced  to  the two  30-inch check  valves installed
on the discharge pipes from recirculation pumps Nos. 5  and 6 (Section 1/M2,
Contract Drawing M2).  When the recirculating pumps shut off, back
pressure against the valve leaf plates forces the plates against the
valve seats with the resulting noise and  vibration.
    The following contract specification  details all check valves used
in this contract:  Page C56, Section C7-Piping  and  Pipelines,
    Subsection C7.02 Materials
    "(8)  Valves
          (b)  Check Valves.  Check valves shall be double-leaf, swing
    type valves with flat faces for mounting between two pipe flanges.
    Leafs shall be spring loaded. Valve  body shall bear on flange  faces
    of adjacent piping and not on cement-mortar lining.  Valve shall
    have cast-iron bodies with aluminum-bronze  plates.   Trim including
    stops, pins, and springs shall be  316 stainless steel.  Resilient
    seal shall be Buna N synthetic rubber. Valves shall be Mission  Duo-
    Check or equal".
    The actual installed 30" check valves at this location are MB-12-5081-SF
units produced by Gulf Valve Company of Houston, Texas.  NFIC personnel
discussed the installation and apparent problems with company representatives.
They offered the following possible causes for  the  noise and vibration
problems:
    1)  Valve installed improperly
    2)  Insufficient spring tension
    3}  Improper design of structure

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                                                                    38
Each is discussed herein.
    1)  The leaf check valve must be installed in the horizontal  pipe
with the leaf shaft in a vertical position.   If the shaft is horizontal,
the lower leaf tends to fall by gravity to its seat position, whereas the
upper leaf is retarded by both gravity and the spring tension.  Unequal
seating of the leaves occurs.
    2)  In some installations, the normal  tension springs supplied
with the valve units are insufficient to retard the leaf closing  under
backflow conditions and the leaves close with substantial force against
their seats.   Gulf Valve Company personnel said they would be agreeable
to send the contractor heavy duty springs  to replace the existing springs
if these will remedy the problem.  They have made similar modifications
before.
    3)  In this particular structure configuration, recirculation pumps
Nos. 5 and 6 directly oppose each other.  It is conceivable that in
addition to the static water pressure head acting on the check valves,
the discharge pressure of the opposing pump is being transmitted at
least in part, across the structure to act against the opposing check
valve.  This additional pressure would tend to counteract the retarding
springs of the valves.  However, the design engineers have equipped the
pump's discharge piping with 60° downturned fittings, apparently in an
attempt to minimize this effect.
    It would be possible to evaluate the effect of opposing pumps on
the check valves by-operating only one of the pumps at a time, switching
it on and off, and monitoring the noise and vibration level at the

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                                                                    39
corresponding check valve.   Both pumps would  then  be  operated,  alternating
their on-off cycles, and the noise/vibration  levels re-evaluated.   The
static water level  in the structure  should  be maintained  constant  in
both test phases by operating the original  recirculation  pumps  Nos.  1, 2,
3 and 4.  If a substantially higher  noise/vibration   level  was  obtained
with the pumps in the alternating operation mode,  then it could be concluded
that the check valves are being influenced  by the  discharge pressure of
the opposing pump.   Additional  discharge  baffling  and structural changes
would be necessary at that point.
    Whatever the cause of the check  valve malfunction, it is imperative
that it be remedied quickly.  Both structural  damage  and  damage to the
vertical pumps and attendant piping  will  occur if  this problem  is  left
unattended.
    Part B - The pump operational problems  alluded to in  this question
pertain to the new recirculation pumps Nos. 5 and  6.   In  discussions with
the plant operating personnel,  the consulting engineers,  and the inspectors,
it was mutually agreed that pump No.  5 has  repeatedly thrown the circuit
breakers on its electrical  system requiring manual restart  of the  pump by
the plant operators.  This situation occurs several times per day,
especially during the warm weather periods.
    The consulting engineers mentioned that they have this  problem
under consideration and are currently negotiating  with pump suppliers,
Johnston Pump Company of Glendora, California for  correction of the
situation.  The consultants suspect  that  the  pump{s)  were supplied with
the wrong pitched impellers.  Johnston counters with  the  suspicion
that the trickling filter distribution structure was  designed incorrectly,

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                                                                     40
the resulting effect being  flow  patterns which  create  vortexing  at the
suction of the pump.   The consultants  did  acknowlege that  pump No.  5
draws approximately 15 amperes more  than pump No.  6 under  theoretically
similar pumping conditions.
    Each of the above-mentioned  conditions,  i.e.,  the  possibility of
improper impeller pitch and that of  suction  vortexing  could  result in
excessive current being drawn by the pump  motors.   If  the  current drawn
exceeds the rated amperage  of the motor, the circuit breaker will throw
out.  Any modification to the circuit  breaker to increase  its amperage
above that of the rated amperage of  the  pump motor so  as to  minimize
the pump shut down problem  would only  disguise  the operational problem
and lead to a decreased motor life.  NFIC  personnel were assured by
plant operating personnel that no such modification has been made.
Continued operation of the  pumps at  the  higher  amperage levels will
cause a breakdown in the motor winding and insulation.   When this
occurs, the unit will  have  to be replaced.
    It was not within the scope  of this  evaluation for NFIC  personnel
to determine the cause of the pump malfunction, only that  the problem
existed.  It does exist and all  parties  questioned acknowledged  it.
It is recommended that the  current discussions  between the consulting
engineer and pump supplier  be accelerated  and remedial action initiated.
In addition to the incorrect pump impeller pitch and suction vortexing
possibilities currently being considered,  the hydraulic profile  for the
overall trickling filter distribution  structure/dual 60" conduit line/
secondary sedimentation tank distribution  structure configuration should

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                                                                     41
                                      X1
also be re-evaluated over the wide range of flow conditions which exist
at this plant.   Extremes in raw sewage flow rate range from 35-40 MGD
during the three-month summer canning season down to 10-15 MGD during
the non-canning season.  Recirculation ratios can also be varied over a
wide range.  These hydraulic load changes will  affect the flow paths
within the recirculation distribution structure and the operating character-
istics of the recirculation pumps.
    The pump motor cut-out problem discussed herein, will accentuate
the valve noise/vibration problem discussed in Part A above.
Question No. B-8
    "The doors  to the main electrical substation which carry over 12,000
volts are continually left open.   We would like to know whether this
situation violates any State or Federal  safety requirements and what
effect, if any, this would have on the equipment located in the
substation."
Discussion
    The Federal requirements for electrical safety are regulated by
the National Electric Code; the State requirements are specified in
Title 8 of the  California Administrative Code.   The CAL-OSHA program is
enforced by the California Division of Industrial Safety.  Both Codes
are violated if access to unauthorized personnel is not controlled by
means of locked doors, walls, screens, fences, or other approved means.
If access is controlled, the fact that the doors are left open does not
in itself constitute a hazard or safety violation.

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                                                                   42
    The plant site is fenced,  however access to the site is not
controlled, as the gate is  left open.   The electrical  substation is not
fenced or isolated from personnel  on  the plant grounds.   Since access
is not controlled, if the doors are continually left open, then both
Codes are violated in our opinion.
    Equipment deterioration will  occur due to dust and moisture.
If the doors are left open, this  deterioration may be accelerated.
Question No. B-9
    "A total of 43 change orders  have been initiated by the contractor,
Caputo-COAC, in the modification  of the trickling filters.  These change
orders have been approved by the  resident engineer and the City, but
they have been only recently submitted to the SWRCB for approval.  We
would appreciate a technical determination of the acceptability of these
change orders and a determination as  to whether the work included on
the change orders has actually been performed.  In this regard, it should
be noted that the SWRCB has assigned  a civil engineer, Mr. Joe Rodriquez,
to review the validity of the change  orders."
Discussion
    As previously discussed under Question No. A-5, Mr.  Rodriquez of
the California State Water Resources  Control Board is  conducting an
extensive review of all change orders submitted by the City of Stockton
on this project.  Any parallel investigation of them by NFIC personnel
would be redundant.  NFIC review  of Mr. Rodriquez's report to the Western
Area Audit Group upon completion  of same is desirable.

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                                                                   43
Question No.  B-10
    "An early inspection  of  the  trickling filter walls  indicated  that
"the walls of subject filters  reveals  there, are joints  that are not  'full
joints.1  It was also found  that the  incidence of  voids in the walls is
high."  The contractor promised  to  correct  the deficiencies,  however,
plant personnel  indicated that these  corrections were not fully accomplished.
In view of the leakage which has occurred on filter  No.  4, we would  like
a verification as to whether the above deficiencies  were corrected."
Discussion
    NFIC personnel  conducted visual  inspections of the  exterior walls  of
trickling filters Nos. 4, 5, and 6.   These  inspections  revealed that the
walls of filters Nos. 5 and  6  were  essentially free  of  open mortar joints
between the masonry bricks.  The walls of filter No. 4  did have numerous
open mortar joints, the cause  of which could not be  accurately determined
due to the fact that the filter  had been  in operation for over a  year.
Possible explanations of the open joints  include:
    1)  The joints were not  completely mortared during  construction.
    2}  The mortar grout has washed out of  the joints due to  leaching
of the cement binder by leaking  wastewater.
    3)  On the portion of the  wall  of filter No. 4 where the  Xypex
waterproofing compound test  patch was applied, it  appears that the mortar
has been chiseled in several locations.   City personnel stated that  on
severe leak spots the Xypex  material  is applied  in crystalline form  and
physically driven into the area. This technique may account  for  the open
grout joints observed in this  particular wall area.

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                                                                    44
    NFIC personnel  also visually inspected  the  visible  portions  of the
interior wall  surfaces  for filters  Nos.  4,  5  and  6.   Since the trickling
filter plastic media was completely installed in  these  filters at the
time of site visit, the inspection  was  limited  to the upper 3.5 feet of
the wall surface.   No open joints were  noted  during  this  inspection on
filters Nos. 5 and  6; open joints were  found  in filter  No. 4.
    The open joints noted on the exterior wall  of filter  No.  4 were
discussed with Mr.  Paul Prout of the City of  Stockton,  Department of
Public Works.   He acknowledged the  existence  of the  open  joints  and
stated that any corrective action to them was being  delayed until a
decision could be reached on the entire filter  wall  leakage problem.

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                                                                    45
C.  Building Additions and Modifications
Question No. C-1
    "The contractor has continually  failed  to  follow  approved  plans
and specifications in the placement  of  his  concrete.   For  example,  the
contractor has cured his concrete with  a  curing  compound rather than
the water cure method required  by the specifications.   It  was  also
noted that some of the poured concrete  did  not meet the minimum com-
pressive strength of 3,000 pounds per square  inch at  the end of 28  days
as required by the specifications.   Additionally, the concrete used  in
the project has failed to meet  the 0.04 percent  maximum allowable shrinkage
                                                                           >
requirement included in the specifications.   Further,  the  contractor has
not obtained advance approval for his rebar layout prior to the pouring
of concrete as required by the  specifications.   We would like  an opinion
of the acceptability of the poured concrete in light  of the contractor's
failure to follow the approved  plans and  specifications."
Discussion
    A review of the concrete specimen data, those that failed  and those
that passed specified criteria,  leads the writer to express the opinion
that the poured concrete is acceptable  and  meets strength  requirements.
The use of a curing compound is  an acceptable  method  in curing the  concrete
and can be used in place of the  water cure  method after 72 hours, if
approved by the resident engineer.
    Pertaining to the item of advanced  approval  by the engineer of  reinforcing
steel (rebar) layout drawings submitted by  the contractor, all persons
interviewed agreed that it was  not uncommon on this project for the  con-
tractor to place rebars and pour concrete without having received prior
approval of submitted drawings.

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                                                                    46

    The following excerpts  from the  contract  specifications  state  the

conditions of pre-approval  of  rebar  placement drawings:

    Pages C 24-25,  Section  C-3 -  Concrete Work, Subsection C3.02 Material

    "(3)  Reinforcing  Steel

          Reinforcing  steel  shall  consist of  deformed  bars of  the  size
    called for on the  drawings.   Steel  shall  conform to ASTM 615-40.
    Deformations  shall  conform to ASTM  A305,  A408.  Mill  certificates
    showing conformity with  these requirements shall be furnished  to the
    engineer for  each  melt.  Wire reinforcements  shall conform to
    ASTM A!85.

          Placing drawings  and bending  schedules  shall be submitted  to
    the engineer  for review.   Reinforcement shall be carefully formed
    as indicated  on the drawings.  Stirrups and tie bars  shall  be  bent
    around a pin  having a diameter of not less than three times the
    diameter of the bar.  Except  where  specifically indicated  otherwise on
    the drawings, bends for  other bars  shall  be made around  a  pin  having
    a diameter of not  less  than 8 bar diameters.  All  bars shall be  bent
    cold."

    Pages B 10-11,  Section  B3  -  Specifications and Drawings

    "B3.04  Information to  be  Furnished by Contractor

          The contractor shall  furnish  all drawings, specifications,
    descriptive data,  certificates,  samples,  tests, methods, schedules
    and manufacturer's  instructions  as  specifically required in the
    specifications, and all  other information as  reasonably  may be
    required to demonstrate  fully that  the materials and  equipment to
    be furnished  and the manner  of performing the work comply  with the
    provisions  and  intent of the  specifications and drawings.   If  the
    information shows  any deviation  from the  contract  requirements,  the
  .  contractor shall,  by a  statement in writing accompanying the informa-
    tion, advise  the engineer  of  the deviation and state  the reason  therefor.

    B3.05   Review  of  Contractor's Information

          When  review  and checking for  acceptability is required of
    any drawings, method of  work,  or of any information regarding  materials
    and equipment,  the  contractor shall  prepare or secure, and submit
    for review at least 5 copies  thereof.  If the information  thus
    submitted indicates the  material and equipment is  acceptable,
    the engineer  will  return 2 copies marked  acceptable,  otherwise 2
    copies will be  returned  with  an  explanation of why the material

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                                                                    '47
    or equipment is  unacceptable and  the  contractor  shall  resubmit the
    information until  it is  acceptable.   If  the  contractor wishes more
    than 2 copies returned,  he may submit additional  copies of the
    information for  review,  but in no event  shall  the contractor submit
    more than 7 copies of each item."
    Page B 2, Section  Bl - Definitions
    "B1.15  Submi tted
          'Submitted'Jwherever and in whatever manner used, means sub-
    mitted to the engineer for his acceptance."
    It may be argued that nowhere in  the  quoted  specifications is it
stated that approval of rebar placement drawings is  required prior to
or in advance of a concrete pour.  This is an error  in the preparation
of the specifications.  However, prior approval  of rebar placement drawings
is a common construction requirement. Advanced  approval  permits the
design engineer to insure that the steel  to  be placed truly conforms
with the intent of the design drawings and calculations.   It is not uncommon
to find that the steel supplier and/or contractor misinterpreted said
intent.
    The approved steel placement drawings also provide a valuable aide
to the field inspector.  More detail  is usually  provided on these drawings
than on the original contract drawings * especially where irregular forming
and/or steel placement are required.
    Finally, these drawings  are a requirement of the specifications.
Their submittal with ample lead time  for  approval  by the engineer is
the responsibility of the contractor. Contract  specifications often
specify the advanced lead time required for  submittal of approval
drawings by the contractor and the allowable turn around time for
approval/disapproval by the engineer. These specificaitons do not state
this and as a consequence may be negligent.

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                                                                    48
Question No.  C-2
    "In constructing an auxiliary maintenance  building,  a  large manhole
was discovered.   The soils  engineer for the project recommended that
the manhole be filled with  concrete or pea  gravel  to insure that it
would not affect the loading of the building foundation.   Since the
recommendation has not been followed,  we would like an  independent
opinion as to whether the building foundation  has  been  adversely affected."
Discussion
    The manhole referred to is poured  concrete.   Inspection shows no
cracks or movement of any sort.  The maintenance building  foundation is
about 8 ft. away at the closest point.   It  is  of slab foundation
construction and is not likely to be affected  if manhole is retained in
present condition.
    Mr. Vieira,  STP Superintendent, stated  that since the  manhole has
an existing pipe connection that leads back to the head of the plant,
they propose a future use for recirculation.
    It is the writer's opinion that the maintenance building will not
be structurally affected by retention  of the manhole.
Question No.  C-3
    "Although the degree of soils compaction included in the specifica-
tions was not always being  met by the  contractor,  the resident engineer
has accepted the lesser degree of compaction.   For example, the resident
engineer approved an 80 percent compaction  on  the bedding  material
underneath a vitrified clay pipe although the  specification called for
a 95 percent compaction.  We would like a technical opinion as to whether

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                                                                      49
this can result in any structural  deficiencies  and  also  the  Region's
position in instances  such  as  this where  the  contractor  has  not met the
approved plans and specifications."
Discussion
    To answer the general question,  failure  to  meet compaction  specs
could result in structural  failures  depending on  the situation.   However,
in the case cited under the sewer  bedding an  80 percent  compaction vs.
a 95 percent compaction on  the sandy material,  we would  not  expect
structural difficulties as  a result  of the reduced  compaction of the
soil.  If movement of  the pipe occurs, it could be  detected  by  examining
the pipe run in question between manholes.
Question No. O4
    "The resident engineer  authorized the contractor to  grout behind
the brick veneer around the operations building to  a height  of  8 feet,
instead of the full height  of the  brick veneer  of 20 feet as required .
in the specifications.  We  would like an  evaluation as to whether the
reduced grouting will  create any safety problems."
Discussion
    The brick veneer on the existing operations building is  for aesthetic
purposes.  The veneer  is tied to the existing walls by drilling and
placement of ties.  Since  the cavity is grouted to  a height  of  8 ft.,
it should prevent any  movement should a truck accidently back into it.
The reduced grouting above  8 ft. height should  present no safety
hazard.
    Sheet No. A205 - Typical wall  section on the maintenance building
next to the operations building shows the design to be hollow backed.

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APPENDIX

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                                 .  October
TO:  .  _ •  Hr. Paul Da Falco, Jr.
          Regional Administrator
        .  EPA, Region IX
•        ,
FROM:. .   Manager   \
          Western Area Audit Group .
      *          * •
SUBJECT:  : Reqtrest for Technical Assistance -   . '
          Interim- Audit of Stockton i>!ain Watar Quality
       •'   Control Plant - EPA Project No. CG5DS95
* '    '     *        "            "               •
              •   ,          ,     f                    "
             *              •    *                      *
   • '• k'e are  in tha final stages of completing our- interim audit of the  .-
City. of Stockton's financial and rr.anages)ent controls over tha subject   ...
EPA  grant.   In tMs regard, we are currently 1n tha process of re^ie^lng :
the  consulting engineering flm's (Brown and Ca1d\7ell) financial records"
supporting its billings for engineering services.  In addition, W3 ara
s un^arizirrg  the results of our review at the City of Stockton.  Upon cca-
pletion of this efforts, we will provide you with an overall briefing of
pur  audit results prior to the issuance of our written report.

      As discussed with you previously., it was Indicated that scsa engineering
assistance *.fould b^ required at a later date.  Ha have noi-J reached the point
where this 'assistance is required,.  The areas where the technical support is
required  are listed on th^ attached
  '.*  He vfould appreciate 1t if tha assistance can b& provided and a
 report  of tha results furnished to us by Hovsr^bar 15., 1974.  I believe that
 the wori: can be expedited if the engineer or engineers assigned will initially
 coordinate with rir. Gear^ Per,a of tny staff.                                "

    ' If the above tins frtuT>e3 are not acceptable or if you have qny questions
 concerning this request, pi eass do not hesitate to contact me.  .
                                   TRUH4N ROHAU) BEELER

 Enclosures

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               LIST OF AREAS WHERE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
        IS REQUIRED UNDER CITY OF STOCKTON  PROJECT  MO. COG0595


A.  Construction of Sludqs Lagoons_

    The contractor,'C. Norman Peterson Col', has  completed  construction  of
   "the sludga lagoons and the Brown-and Caldv;ell resident engineer accepted
    the contractor's work'as "essentially coniplete" In April  1974.      .

    1.- During the course of our audit, several  operational problems con- -
    ; .'•• cernlng.the sludge lagoons have been brought to our attention.   V'a
     .. therefore would appreciate an  independent technical determination
    •   ,. as to whether the construction work completed on the  sludga .lagoons
    ••-•'  is acceptable and has been accomplished  in  accordance with-the
    . •  approved plans and specifications.   •       . • .           ...       ";..•'

    2.  -. Visual observations and discussions have Indicated that  ths tels-
   -. " .scopic weir in one of the sludga lagoons v;as not operating  properly,
        We would like to have the extent of this problem reviev^ed.   If
        possible, we would also like technical comments as to the.cause
        of the problem and a determination  as  to who hau,the  responsibility
        to correct 1t.       .   '         '        -  . - .   •  •.. '.-,
        It was- observed that the cleanout .valves for the- sludge lagoons v?ere
        .located in the pump station which- were considerably belcv? the lagoon
        v;aten level.  It was explained that the pumping  station v.xmld-ba  .-'•
        flooded if the cleanout valves were uncapped.  In addition,  .it was
        suggested that the cleanouts served no useful  purpose since the    .
        lagoon would have to be drained before any cleanout work 'could ba  . .
        performed.  VJe would 11 ka a technical  determination as to whether-
        cleano'Jt valves are usable without  creating a safety hazard to
        personnel in the pumping, station.  If  this is a  problem, v/a would.
        appreciate a detenui nation as to whether it v/as  attributable to
        a design error or to the quality of construction and' how it can ba
        corrected.     •             .   -                 '...'[ --""'.•-•;
    4.,  Plant operating personnel  ccjnmanfed that they were unhappy .with
   .   .  operations of tha sludga lagoon from several  standpoints.  Cna of
        these was that the sump 'pump was not abla to  effectively rernova - "••  .
      '• sludge.  Another was that the pumping station vras  causing  problems ..-
        since 1t had a greater capacity than could actually ba used.   VJa
        would appreciate a technical evaluation of tho  validity of" the above
        probletDS and how they can  be corrected.    .          '         .
                                                                "  •
    5.  A total of seven change orders have been initiated under the    ".
        C. Morgan Peterson contract and approved by the resident engineer

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        end the city.  These change orders  were not  submitted  to  the
      -  California State Hatsr Resources  Control'Board  (SU2CB)  for approval
        until September 4, 1974, altiib/jgh soi?4jpf^th2 char.ge orders per-
        tained to worh performed in later 1973.   We  ivOtild  appreciate a
      *"  technical determination of the acceptability of these  change orders
        and a determination as to whether the work Included on tha change
        orders has actually been performed.  In this regard, it should be
      .  noted that the 5URCB has assigned a civil engineer, Mr.-Joe Rodriguez,
   .   •  to-review the validity of the change orders.       .             .•
      •  •                                              *'.*-.
B- Trickl i ng Fi1 ter Hodifica.t1 ens     .        •  • •

   •The contractor, Caputo-- COAC, has completed^ all modification work on
   .three trickling filters with, the exception of work  applicable to five
    change orders.  The Brown and Caldwell  resident  engineer 1n a letter
   .dated April 5, 1974, indicated "all  Items of work required in the.   .
'    basic contract,..v^ere essentially complete on February. 20, 7974."      '

    IV. During our review, several operating problems concerning  the trickling
   ' ••••  .filters were quite evident.  In order to ascertain the full extent
        of.these problems, we would like a  technical evaluation as .to whether
        the construction.work co/nnleted on  the trickling filters  is acceptable
 •' .'•'•   end has been accomplished in accordance vrtth the approved plans aria
    ;  '  specifications.        • > '     .          .,   -    .,..-.  .    ".    .  j-'-
                     "                      ••!.''.     "   ' * ,..""'        : •"" *'"•
    2.  There.is substantial effluent leakage and green algae .growth'on the -  .
   "_•. .  outside walk of trickling filter Mo. 4.  Although this  situation has
.  .'".'• existed for alirost one year* the leakage has not been  eliminated..
   .   '  In'view of tha substantial problem, v:e would appreciate 2 tachninal
     ;   datarmination as i,Q whether the problsa was  tha result of poor .  •
        construction or basic design errors.                .-.•"'..        . •  -

    3.-  It has bean suggested that the modified trickling  filters («05. 4,
      / 5, ?,nd 6) mil not operate at their designed capacity. He would
     . . like a determination as to whether  the filters  can operate at their
        full capacity.  If filters Mos.  5 and 6 can  operate at full capacity
        for any Tength cf tirre, could the effect on  tke outsida walls of
        thass filters be.the sarae as on filter No, 4?  ;. •;••:•  ;\.;v ; >    .•' '
           V          .,                                       V

    4^  He would alsq liks a deterniination  a$ to vvhat effect tha  effluent
        leakage \-ri11 hava on the structural strength of the outside concrete
        block walls of fUtGr Ho. 4. -                   ;       .;.,.'.
                                                     *          ""         '  * "
  .  5.,- In connection v;ith B.4. above, we v~culd apprsciate a determination
        of the ability of tha existing concrete v;aT1 end foundation of filter
     -  Mo. 4 to withstand the additional weight resulting frcra the effluent
        leakage. • This is Important since the concrete  block walls were built
        on the old filter foundation.

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6,   In  view of the leakage of the concrete block walls, we would
     appreciate knowing whether cement blocks are generally noted for
   •  their ability to withstand absorption.  In addition, v?e would
     appreciate any comments which you may have as to whether there
     1s  a  less costly and inore effective way to construct high trickling
     filter.tovvers.            .
         .    '                                     -         *  •

7.   We  observed that the recirculation pumps for ths trickling filters
     nake  a tremendous thudding noiss when they are turned off.  In
   .  addition, it &as stated that the punrps were continually going out
 •    of  operation.  One of the reasons given was that tha rotors on the
   •  trickling filter rs circulation pumps were operating at a higher    .
     amperage than they were designed,  k'a would appreciate an evaluation
.  . -of  the significance of the pursp problems and a dstsralaatloa'of the
"  .  effect tha high amperage v/1 11 have on tha punp rrotors,        .   ,
                                          •                     •

3,  -The doors to the main electrical substation which carryover 72,000.
 •.'..  volts are continually, left open.  We ivould like to kno« whether this
.  ^   situation violates any State or Federal safety requirements and' what
     effect, if any, this would have on the equiprr^nt located in tha.
  .   substaittdoq . •  . •  .  •          • .   • .       .          ....••••   '.'."
9.
        A total' of 43 changa orders have been Initiated by th? contractor, •
        Caputo - COAC, in the iTiOdification of the trickling-filters.   These -.'~
   •"'. •"  change. ordei?s have been approved by .tha resident engineer and the
 ,  .-    -City, but they have been only recently submitted to tha  SHRCB for '
        approval..  Vie would appreciate a technical determination of tha -•   -
        acceptability "of these change.orders  and a determination as.to .whether
   " "    the v/ork included on tha change orders has actually been perforTned.-.-
   -   :  In this regard* it should be noted that the SSfRCB has assigned a
      .'civil engineer, Mr, Joe Rodriguez, to review the validity of  tha  .  -
        change.orders.    .                . .       ;    •   -.         ,   . .•..."•

   10...  An early inspection of the trickling  filter walls indicated that  •  -
        "ths walls of subject filters reveals these are joints that are not
        "full joints,'  It v;as also found that the incidences of  voids in the
    }   walls is hight"** Tne contractor promised to correct the  dgficlsncies,,.
        hov>;ever, plant personnel indicated that these corrections wars not
        fully acccsiplished.  In vie1.-; of the leakage which has occurred on   :
        filter »io. 4, we would like a verification as to whether the  above
        deficiencies wara corrected,                          ....       ;

C,   Building Additions and Modifications                   .   :./' '       ; -

    The construction contract concerning the  building'additions  and modifi-
    cations v-ork is still in process.  The construction contractor is
    C. S. Plumb Co.                                              -       *

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                                      •    h
7."  ihe contractor has continually ^failed 4?  fallow approver! plons and
    specifications in the placement of his  c.o'n'cr&te.  For example, the
    contractor has cured his concrete with  a  curing compound rather  them
    the water cure method required by the spscifications.   It was! also
    noted that s.cire of the poured concrete  did not rceet the minimum
    cctnprrasive strength of 3,000 pounds per  square inch at the end  of
    28 days as required by tha specifications.  Additionally, the con-
    crete used 1n the project has failed to m-eet the 0.04 percent maximum
    allowable shrinkage requirement included  In.the specifications*
 .   Furthers the contractor has not obtained  advance approval for his
**'. ".-rebar layout prior to the pouring of concrete as required by tha
 .-; specifications.  He vxiuld like an opinion of tha acceptability'of  -
" -.  the poured concrete 1n.Tight of the contractor's failure to follow
 '"  the approved plans and spadfications*  ;                        .  •
  ***         ' -           *       "                   "**"*•.»
2; ."In constructing an auxiliary maintenance  building, a large rcanhole ".'.
,  '. was discovered.  The soils engineer for tha project-recorrrrrended  that
    the inanhole be filled with concrete or  psa gravel to insure that 1t  •
-.. '. v;ould not affect the loading.of the building foundation.  Since  the ".
". •-.  recofrm-sndatior. has not been followed, v/e  would like an  Independent  .
; '   opinion-as to whether the building foundation has been,  adversely
." •'• affected.	

3*;. Although the degree of soils compaction included 1h th-3 .specification
 . .was not-always baing met: by the contractor, the resident engineer has
 . .  accepted the lesser degree of compaction. For example,.the resident
    engineer approved an 80 percent compaction on the bedding notarial .
'., ' .underneath e vitrified clay pipe although the specification called  ".
    fora 95 percent conpactfon. .He would  like a technical opinion  es .-•
': ' to-.whether this can-result in any structural deficiencies and also  .
•*• .  tha region's position 1n Instances such as this where the contractor.
    has. not met the approved plans and specifications.    '.".... -  -•   .. ,'

4;'The resident engineer authorized the contractor to grout behind  the
    brick veneer around the operations building to a height of 8 feet,
.,: ..Instead of the full height of the brick veneer of 20 feet as required
    in the specifications.  Ha ivould like an  evaluation as  to whether
   . the-reduced grouting will create any safety problems. .

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