bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Significance of Radioactivity in Water Supply and Treatment
Authors: Bevis Herbert A.
Published: February 2018

This article begins by providing a brief overview of the biologic effects of radioactivity. Variables that affect the extent of health effects of radiation include: quantity of material absorbed; distribution of radioactive material in the body; the half‐life of the material; and, the rate at which the material is excreted from the body. Various forms of potential sources of radioactive contamination of water supplies are discussed, along with methods for removal of radioactive materials from the water supply that include: natural processes of riverbed sedimentation, ion exchange capabilities of silts, the biologic processes of both plants and animals including some forms of algae, the natural filtration of water percolating down through the earth to an aquifer, and the ion exhange properties of minerals and clays; conventional treatment plant processes of coagulation and sedimentation, filtration, lime soda ash softening, and ion exchange; and, beds of steel, clay pellets, activated carbon, and cation‐anion‐exchange resins in series. Distillation units are also mentioned as capable of removing nonvolatile materials, but are expensive and limited in capacity.
Recovery and Reuse of Alum Sludge at Tampa
Authors: Roberts J. Moran , Roddy Charles P.
Published: February 2018

In 1956, Tampa, Florida, started investigating the feasibility of the alum sludge recovery process. Facilities for acid storage and handling were available at the treatment plant, and concentrated sulfuric acid could be purchased locally, making the process particularly suitable. Laboratory tests indicated that the chemistry and control of the process would be rather simple. The major problem was to determine what method of liquid‐solid separation would be most practical for thickening the alum sludge, for it is a difficult material to concentrate. The preliminary work indicated the need for additional testing in a pilot plant. Although some difficulties may develop in the recovery process described and in the mechanical methods employed, laboratory and plant scale tests fully prove that the process is practical. Refinements and automatic control features may be added later if a need for them is demonstrated. It should be noted that when the plant is operating principally as a softening plant, aluminum hydroxide sludge is not available for the recovery process.
Use of Sodium Hexametaphosphate in Manganese Stabilization
Authors: Illig George L.
Published: February 2018

In the Pittsburgh metropolitan area alone there are several communities using manganese‐bearing waters as a primary source of supply. Several of the smaller communities feed glassy phosphate directly to their wells at feed rates varying from 3 to 5 ppm. At least two large water supplies have also occasionally used glassy phosphate to tie up dissolved manganese that has leaked through the filters when the manganese content in the raw water was unusually high. As manganese leakage through the filter amounts to less than 1 ppm, stabilization can be achieved safely at a metaphosphate feed rate of 2 ppm. A fairly reliable indication of the effectiveness of glassy phosphate for manganese stabilization can be obtained in a relatively few weeks. In extreme cases of “black water,” improvement should be noticed almost immediately. Fewer complaints should be received, particularly after loosely adhering manganese deposits have been cleaned out. Furthermore, water utilities that conduct systematic hydrant‐flushing programs on an annual, semiannual, or even a quarterly basis will find that hydrants clear up much more quickly than formerly and, in most cases, require less frequent flushing. Although attempts have been made to measure the extent of manganese deposition in systems when the average manganese content is as low as 0.1‐0.3 ppm, a more practical method is to check manganese concentrations of the water at various points throughout the distribution system. After a system using water properly treated with glassy phosphate has been cleaned of old, loose deposits, the level of manganese should be the same at the various sampling points throughout the system. It has been shown that glassy phosphates can be utilized successfully to stabilize dissolved manganese under different operating conditions and in waters of markedly different chemical characteristics.
Federal Research and Development Program for Saline‐Water Conversion
Authors: Cywin Allen , Finch Lewis S.
Published: February 2018

This paper discusses the first Saline Water Act passed by Congress in July 1952, and authorized a saline water conversion research and development program administered by the Office of Saline Water, U.S. Department of the Interior. The article discusses five categories of saline water conversion processes, including: distillation; membrane; freezing; chemical; and others. In 1958, Congress passed the Saline Water Demonstration Plant Act that provides for the construction, on the west, east, and gulf coasts, of at least three seawater conversion plants, two of 1,000,000 gpd capacity each. Two demonstration plants for the conversion of brackish water, one of which is to be at least 250,000 gpd in capacity, have been authorized. One is to be located in the northern Great Plains region, and the other in the arid areas of the southwest. Five of the most advanced and potentially promising processes have been selected for demonstration, including: multiple‐effect long‐tube, vertical distillation (1,000,000 gpd); multistage flash distillation (1,000,000 gpd); electrodialysis (not further defined) (250,000 gpd); forced‐circulation vapor compression distillation (250,000 gpd); and, freezing (not further defined) (100,000 to 350,000 gpd). The article discusses criteria for site selection, the construction program, and water costs.
Apparatus for Corrosion Tests With Hot Municipal Waters
Authors: Guest Rex M.
Published: February 2018

During the course of a long‐term corrosion investigation, it was necessary to design an apparatus capable of testing specimens under conditions as closely related as possible to those of actual service in a closed system. Speller demonstrated that the rate of corrosion in a closed system increases steadily with an increase in temperature, but in a system open to the atmosphere, a maximum rate is reached at approximately 80°C. The test presented in this paper is described as rigorous, and uses of the only apparatus of this type. Test apparatus, operating conditions, and results are discussed, with study conclusions indicating that the apparatus proved satisfactory in testing the corrosion of steel specimens in a closed system using municipal waters. The results of tests carried out over a period of several months demonstrated that the composition of the corrosion medium, and not the composition of the steel samples, is the important factor.
Innovations in Water Clarification
Authors: Conley Walter R. , Pitman Raymond W.
Published: February 2018

Water filtration research and development was conducted by General Electric Company, Richland, Washington, at a small experimental filter plant at Hanford, Washington. The experimental work described here was done with Columbia River water. Other kinds of water may give different results. The purpose of the study was to support the operation of large‐scale plants that are required to produce very clear water at high filtration rates and low operating costs. A 5‐gpm experimental filter plant was operated for approximately 4 years. The principal achievements from the use of the plant are improved water filters, improved chemical treatment methods, and a demonstration of practical filtration with a flocculation time as short as 10 minutes, a settling time as short as 60 minutes, and a filtration rate as high as 10 gpm/sq ft. An improved chemical treatment method was developed that uses 5‐50 ppb of organic polyelectrolytes to control filter breakthrough. This treatment, used in conjunction with filters made of both O.4‐mm sand and 0.9‐ 1.5‐mm anthracite, makes it possible to filter water at very high rates without excessive head loss. The resulting filtered water is exceptionally clear, with less than 0.01 ppm turbidity. Results obtained in the experimental filter plant have been confirmed in large‐scale filtration plants.
Determination of Impurities in Liquid Chlorine
Authors: De Vries Thomas , Savariar C. P.
Published: February 2018

The U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) is sponsoring a research program to investigate methods now used for liquid chlorine analysis and to develop new or improved methods where feasible. At the 1959 AWWA Conference in San Francisco, several analytic methods were discussed, and it became evident that some methods needed further study. For example, the pyridine method for chloroform determination is not specific; other chlorinated hydrocarbons are also measured by it. The chromic acid method to determine hydrochloric acid is troublesome, and it is planned to study the method more intensively. Also studied in 1959 was a method for assaying chlorine, whereby residual gas volumes were measured in a gas buret after the chlorine had reacted with mercury. This method seems to be satisfactory. The determination of iron chloride in residues obtained by evaporation of a sample of chlorine is readily done colorimetrically, the color being developed with orthophenanthroline in a buffered solution after the iron has been reduced with hydroxylamine. This method is very satisfactory for iron. In 1959, an evaluation was made of a method already used by some laboratories for determining nitrogen trichloride. With this method, the trichloride was allowed to react with concentrated hydrochloric acid to form ammonium chloride and chlorine. The ammonia was then determined by the kjeldahl method when present in small amounts, or colorimetrically by the nessler method when present in lesser concentrations. Reproducible results were readily obtained.
Demand Rates and Metering Equipment at Milwaukee
Authors: Rynders Arthur
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the establishment of, and experiences with, demand rates at Milwaukee's Water Department. Over a period of years, the utility had acquired a large amount of information about the peak rates of flow to several suburbs. These peak rates were discussed with the Wisconsin Public Service Commission when commensurate rates were requested. The suburbs were not pleased with the utility's request, and thus the existing dissension over rates was intensified. A new approach to the problem in the form of a demand rate was proposed. This rate took into account the peak rate of flow drawn from the utility system by the customer. Essentially, the rate has two parts, a commodity charge and an extra‐capacity charge. Equipment such as water meters, and rates on air‐conditioning are discussed.
Concrete Pressure Pipe in Today's Water Industry
Authors: Whitlock Ernest W.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the use of concrete pressure pipe in the water utilities' distribution systems. The article begins by providing a brief overview of the historical development of concrete pipe. The types of pipe that are discussed include: nonprestressed‐concrete cylinder pipe; prestressed‐concrete cylinder pipe; pretensioned‐concrete cylinder pipe; noncylinder nonprestressed‐concrete pipe; and, noncylinder prestressed‐concrete pipe. Pipe joints, subaqueous concrete pipe, special sections and fittings, and standards for concrete pipe are all discussed.
Developments in Plastics and Plastic Pipe
Authors: Sweitzer Robert J.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses research developments in plastics and plastic pipe. It begins by providing a brief overview of two general classes of plastic: thermoplastics, or celluloid; and, thermosetting plastics or phenol formaldehyde. The article discusses commercially important materials used for thermoplastic pipe, including: polyethylene; acrylonitrile‐ butadiene‐styrene (ABS); polyvinyl chloride (PVC); and, cellulose acetate butyrate (butyrate). Reinforced thermosetting plastics and their performance are discussed, along with an improvement process known as orientation.
Effects of Phosphates on Coagulation and Sedimentation of Turbid Waters
Authors: Morgan James J. , Engelbrecht Richard S.
Published: February 2018

The increased consumption of synthetic detergents in recent years has prompted research into the effects of these substances on conventional water treatment processes. Operational difficulties have been attributed to the presence of synthetic detergent compounds in treatment plant influents, and considerable research has been undertaken to establish what effects synthetic detergent components have on treatment processes, principally coagulation, sedimentation, and filtration. The major components of present‐day commercial synthetic detergents are surface‐active agents and builder compounds. The most important compounds among the builders are the condensed phosphates, sodium tripolyphosphate (STP), and tetrasodium pyrophosphate (TSPP). The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effects of STP and TSPP on the clarification of hard, turbid water under conditions of continuous flow in a pilot‐scale treatment plant. Results show that STP and TSPP, in relatively high concentrations, are capable of interfering with the coagulation and sedimentation of hard, turbid waters. The effects of TSPP and STP appear to be equal. The magnitude of the interference is reduced by reasonable increases in the coagulant dosage, improvement of mixing and flocculation characteristics, and by an increase in settling time.
Water Disinfection Practices in the United States
Authors: Laubusch Edmund J.
Published: February 2018

Chlorine disinfection has been firmly established in the United States over the past 50 years, and there is a trend toward its adoption as a minimum safe‐guarding treatment for all public surface water supplies. Except for water used on interstate carriers, authority for control of public water supplies is vested in the various states and their political subdivisions. The degree to which authority is exercised varies considerably among the states, but U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) standards of quality almost invariably serve as minimum indexes of bacteriologic safety. At least 30 states publish minimum standards for water treatment plant design, operation, and maintenance. Ten of these, and six additional states that do not publish them, have adopted the Ten‐State Standards, in whole or in part, as the basis of their minimum recommendations or requirements. Among the remaining states, no uniform criteria are apparent. Not all states require disinfection of all public surface and groundwater supplies, but at least 30 states require or recommend chlorine disinfection of surface waters regardless of raw‐water quality. Additionally, at least twelve states specify chlorination as needed to comply with bacteriologic quality standards of USPHS. Only a few states have fixed policies with regard to points of chlorine application, minimum contact periods, and residuals obtained. Apparently, health authorities usually relate these to local conditions and treatment objectives. Almost invariably, the critical test of suitable water disinfection is the demonstration of freedom from coliform organisms according to prescribed test procedures. No state authorities define water quality in terms of residual chlorine content, and only a few apparently have rigid policies on the frequency of tests for residual chlorine. Only a few states define minimum capacity of chlorinating equipment, but 80 per cent of the states known to publish minimum standards or otherwise to have adopted the Ten‐State Standards provide for installation of adequate standby chlorinating equipment to insure continuity of operation during emergencies.
Automatic Rubber Diversion Dam in the Los Angeles River
Authors: Imbertson N. M.
Published: February 2018

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power has for 45 years maintained a 30‐acre spreading ground located adjacent to the south side of the Los Angeles River between the Walt Disney Studios and Forest Lawn Cemetery. Over the years the department has been diverting water from the river by means of a 5‐ft wooden dam, which raised the water sufficiently high to take it through gates and carry it over the spreading grounds. Whenever there was more than 40‐50 ppm silt in the water, the spreading grounds would silt off and would require cleaning after 6‐7 weeks of operation. If there was 400‐500 ppm turbidity, the basins would choke off even sooner. The normal method of operation during such periods was to bypass the muddy waters, because maintenance costs averaged around $6,500 per cleaning of the 30‐acre basin. Also, because the Los Angeles River is a flood control channel, the wooden dam diversion structure was designed to wash out under any major runoff down the Los Angeles River. The net result was that the percentage of water reclaimed in the spreading basin was rather small as compared to what could be saved if the dam could be operated whenever there was water available in the river. One solution was to construct a diversion dam of some material which would withstand the abrasion of waterborne rocks and sand, would collapse so flat on the concrete channel floor that roots, floating trees, and general trash would not become entangled, and yet could be easily raised into a dam after the flood. Neoprene, a synthetic rubber which weathers well, was selected. The article discusses a prototype dam that was built first, and then the construction of a full‐size dam, operation of the dam, and other applications of the dam.
Federal‐Aid Highway Policies Affecting Utilities
Authors: Kirk James E.
Published: February 2018

After the passage of the 1956 Federal‐Aid Highway Act, the Bureau of Public Roads of the U.S. Department of Commerce and the state highway departments recognized that the control of access could be materially affected by the extent and manner in which publicly and privately owned utilities cross or otherwise occupy the rights of way of interstate highways. The Bureau of Public Roads considers the accommodation, adjustment, relocation, or installation of utilities as being associated with a development program that will bring great benefits to the general public and all its varied interests. Therefore, in recognition of the need for establishing a uniform policy on the accommodation of utilities, the American Association of State Highway Officials (AASHO) Committee on Planning and Design Policies began the task of developing such a policy in the fall of 1957. After long debate and discussion, and many meetings with national segments of the utility industry, including representatives of AWWA, “A Policy on the Accommodation of Utilities on the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways” was approved by letter ballot of the states and adopted by AASHO on July 30, 1959. On September 30, 1959, the policy was accepted by the federal highway administrator for use on federal‐aid interstate projects. The policy permits no utilities along interstate highways on new location and requires the removal of utilities that might exist along such highways where they cannot be serviced without direct access from the through‐traffic roadways or ramps. It permits utilities along frontage roads and across interstate highways, all in such manner that they can be serviced without direct access from the through‐traffic roadways or ramps.
Operators' Identification Guide to Animals Associated With Potable Water Supplies
Authors: Ingram William M. , Bartsch Alfred F.
Published: February 2018

The article presents an animal identification guide designed for water utility personnel to identify aquatic animals they may find in connection with their work. This guide identifies an organism as a moss animal or a sponge, or a segmented worm or a roundworm. These animals are not associated with human diseases. They do, however, cause nuisances because of their great abundance in raw‐water sources, water treatment installations, finished‐water reservoirs or distribution systems. More commonly, they are seen during casual microscopic examination and have stimulated questions about their names and origins. The article provides a list of other published resources for animal identification. The article provides a classification of the 25 animals most common in potable water supplies; 23 additional animals associated with such supplies are listed by name only under their appropriate general classification categories. Drawings are provided of each animal.
Methods for Determining Radon‐222 and Radium‐226
Authors: Higgins Frederick B. , Grune Werner N. , Smith Benjamin M. , Terrill James G.
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this study was to develop a simple, reliable, and reproducible field method for the analysis of certain of the naturally occurring radioisotopes in water. The procedures were applied to the analysis of water supplies, particularly groundwaters, during a relatively extensive field sampling program. The requirements, therefore, differed from those of many existing analytic methods in that equipment had to be compact and portable. In order to achieve significant results during a limited and expensive field survey, it was desirable that the analytic procedures be as rapid as possible without loss of accuracy. The analytic procedure studied involved the de‐emanation of Rn222 from solution and the collection of the gases in an erlenmeyer flask coated with a powdered, silver‐activated zinc sulfide screen, followed by alpha scintillation counting. Water samples were collected in specially designed glass bubblers. De‐emanation was achieved by means of an evacuated erlenmeyer flask connected to a bubbler. The vacuum was used to produce an upward flow of air through the bubbler, resulting in radon removal from the water and collection in the flask. The analysis was completed by alpha scintillation counting of the flask, with the use of a specially designed detection unit. Ra226 was also analyzed with the use of a simple modification of the de‐emanation procedure. After de‐emanation for radon analysis, the water sample was thoroughly purged of any remaining radon. The bubbler was then sealed for 8‐12 days to allow the buildup of radon from the radium in the sample. A second radon analysis was performed on the sample, and the radium content was calculated with the use of the known state of partial equilibrium between the two radioelements.
Film‐Speaker Public Relations Program at Los Angeles
Authors: Baleria John W.
Published: February 2018

During the last decade, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, which services every home, business, and industry in a 458‐sq mi area, has brought the important issues of its administration to the attention of audiences totaling more than 6,000,000 people. This was accomplished by the department's film‐and‐speaker program. Because of the rapid population growth of Los Angeles and the increasing use of electricity by consumers, it has been necessary for the department to rush to completion additional steam‐generating facilities. To convey this story of expansion and the need for it to the citizens of Los Angeles, a motion picture, “Power for Progress,” was recently produced. The film tells the story of electric power in Los Angeles. The showing of the film is followed by a qualified speaker's discussion of future plans for the power system.
Effect of Fish Poisons on Water Supplies Part 2. Odor Problems
Authors: Cohen Jesse M. , Rourke George A. , Woodward Richard L.
Published: February 2018

In a previous article, published in the December 1960 issue of the Journal, the problems of treating water containing a fish poison were discussed, and data was presented on the ability of various water treatment processes to remove the toxic agents deliberately added to a water during fish management operations. This article reports the results of experiments on assessing the odor potential of various fish poison formulations and the ability of water treatment processes to remove these odors. It was shown that odor in a raw water supply occurring after contamination with the fish poisons tested may be removed effectively by activated carbon. No other common water treatment process will successfully reduce the odor of 2.0 mg/l of fish poison formulation to acceptable levels. The doses of carbon required for the formulations tested in this study were 36‐85 mg/l. Such carbon doses are unusually large and would be a serious economic burden in the routine treatment of water. But because fish poison formulations would be applied infrequently and because the odor of most of the formulations persists for only a short time, during which interval decreasing dosages of carbon are required, the increased cost of water treatment may not be very large. Use of formulations containing toxaphene would require sustained treatment with carbon because of the high stability of toxaphene. Because of the unusual odor problem and unknown composition of the solvents presently used in fish poison formulations, it is recommended that a more suitable solvent be developed for use in formulations intended for water supply application.
Impact of Desalinization on the Water Economy
Authors: Wolman Abel
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the impact of desalinization on the water economy, beginning with a discussion of the availability and use of water in the U.S. A comparison of desalinization production costs with freshwater production costs is provided, along with economic comparisons, future prospects, and examples of reuse as an alternative to desalinization.
Effect of Fish Poisons on Water Supplies Part 3. Field Study at Dickinson
Authors: Cohen Jesse M. , Pickering Quentin H. , Woodward Richard L. , Van Heuvelen Willis
Published: February 2018

This is the last of three articles on the effect of fish poisons on water supplies. Part 1, on the removal of toxic materials, was published in the December 1960 Journal; Part 2, on odor problems, in the January 1961 Journal.
Cleaning Methods for Deep Wells and Pumps
Authors: Erickson Claud R.
Published: February 2018

As the demand for additional water supplies steadily increases, it has become very important for communities utilizing wells to make the most efficient use of their existing facilities. This is just as important as the development of new wells in the effort to maintain adequate water supplies. Two factors which are extremely important to the efficient operation of a well are stimulation – or, as it is sometimes called, “redevelopment” – of the well when it has declined in productivity, and the cleaning and, if necessary, reconditioning of the pump. There are four basic causes of declines in well production: lowering of the static water level; inefficient pump operation caused by worn, corroded, or plugged parts; deposits of scale, corrosion products, and microorganism growths in the well screen area and on the face of the formation; and, fouling of the well screen area by mud, sand and silt. Reconditioning of the well and pump can help in recovering lost production if the decline is due to any of the last three causes.
Multiple Jacking of Concrete Pipe at National City
Authors: Price H. Arthur
Published: February 2018

An unusual jacking operation was accomplished at National City, California, near San Diego, when 1,300 ft of 120‐in. ID concrete storm drain pipe was jacked 1,300 ft during a multiple‐jacking operation. The unusual features of the job consisted of a boring machine up front, four intermediate jacking stations, a rotary mud lubrication system, and a steering lead section of pipe. National City took bids for open‐cut construction, with either precast pipe or monolithic construction. But an alternate bid made by a San Pedro (California) contractor to do the job by jacking was accepted. The 75‐ft cut, with only 100 ft of right of way, was suited for jacked casing because of the amount of shoring required and because the characteristics of the soil indicated that jacking would not be too difficult. The soil consisted mostly of clay, cobbles, cemented sand, and conglomerate. The jacking pit, boring and excavation, equipment and installation, and lubrication are all discussed.
Rapid Disinfection of Water With High Concentrations of Hypochlorite
Authors: Christian Earl D. , Barada Mary F. , Renn Charles E.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses five steps that have been mechanized so that it is possible to measure bacterial kills by high chlorine concentrations over intervals as short as 0.1 sec. The equipment and process are also readily adapted for the study of other disinfecting systems, enzyme reaction rates, and a variety of biochemical and physiologic processes involving two or more reacting materials. The process consists of the following steps: a stock suspension of test bacteria is run, at a controlled rate, through a tube of fixed and known volume; the hypochlorite solution mixes with the bacterial suspension as it enters the calibrated flow tube; disinfection reactions occur during flow residence within the tube; the disinfected suspension discharges into a collection vessel containing dilution water and a large excess of sodium thiosulfate; and, samples taken at the beginning and end of the flow‐contact system reflect chemical and bacteriologic changes.
Solubility of Radioactive Bomb Debris
Authors: Lindsten Don C. , Pruett Paul B. , Schmitt Richard P. , Lacy William J.
Published: February 2018

To investigate the water solubility question more thoroughly, the US Army Engineer Research and Development Laboratories (ERDL), in cooperation with the Office of Civil and Defense Mobilization, conducted studies in the summer of 1957 at the Atomic Energy Commission's Nevada test site. The studies were part of “Operation Plumbbob” and were reported by ERDL. Radioactive bomb debris was collected at the Nevada test site from the nuclear‐shot “Priscilla” on June 24, 1957. The article discusses nine solubility experiments that were conducted on the radioactive bomb debris, along with experimental results and evaluation of data.
Sizing of Water Meters
Authors: Aldrich Henry V.
Published: February 2018

Sizing a meter requires that the interests of both the customer and the supplier be equally considered. Determination of demand is predictable to a degree commensurate with the completeness of information about the service required. Selection of the correct type and size of meter for a demand of known type and magnitude can be made a matter of routine. Many of the problems of sizing meters can be eliminated by the adoption of general rules or policies governing the use of different types of meters. At Houston, the use of displacement meters in only the small sizes and the use of compound meters in all the larger sizes have, by routine policy, reduced the number of instances when meters have been either overworked, with consequent excessive wear, or oversized with resulting under‐registration.
Viruses, Amebas, and Nematodes and Public Water Supplies
Authors: Chang Shih Lu
Published: February 2018

As waterborne bacterial diseases continue to decline and the bacteriologic quality of water supplies continues to improve, waterborne infectious hepatitis attracts more and more attention of public health and sanitary workers. Municipal water supplies are found to carry, not infrequently, live free‐living nematodes and amebic cysts. This study examines the literature and current research on these microbes to evaluate the public safeguards against municipally waterborne virus diseases and the provision of high quality public water supplies. The basic biologic characteristics of viruses, amebas, and nematodes are discussed, along with data on the number and extent of waterborne epidemics of infectious hepatitis reported in the U.S. and abroad.
Meeting the Challenge of System Growth at El Paso
Authors: Umbenhauer Elwood J.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses four factors responsible for the success of the El Paso, Texas, municipal water and sewer system in the continual struggle to meet growing demands due to population growth, including the following: the creation of the public service board; the aggressive search for new sources of water supply; the extension policies of the city of El Paso; and, the construction policies of the city. The creation of the public service board placed the overall direction of the municipal water system free from political influence and made it possible for the same directors to continue in office long enough to allow consistent long‐term programs to mature and give a measure of continuity to operations. The aggressive search for new sources of water has developed supplies adequate to meet demand. The extension policies of the city have opened new sources of income and made it possible, by and large, to meet the growing demands without intolerable increases in rates to existing customers. The construction policies have enabled the city to receive the utmost value for each dollar expended.
Utility Depreciation Problems and Procedures
Authors: Welmon William C.
Published: February 2018

This article suggests that present depreciation procedures be modernized to give consideration to the inflationary forces that are causing the continuing increase in prices. The article refers to a report entitled “Economic Depreciation, or Capital Recovery Under Changing Price Levels”, prepared by a joint subcommittee of the American Gas Association and the Edison Electric Institute, members of which were later augmented by representatives of the Economics Committee of the American Gas Association. The article states that the recognition of replacement depreciation for tax purposes and in the determination of rates would do no more than permit utilities to recover cost in the same manner that unregulated business recovers all its cost. The articles suggests that the equity owners of regulated public utilities should follow the same practices as the equity owners of all industries who have, to varying degrees, made up for inflation and will continue to do so as long as inflation continues.
Status of Operator Certification and Training, 1960
Authors: Bingley W. McLean
Published: February 2018

In 1958, AWWA and the Conference of State Sanitary Engineers (CSSE) appointed a joint committee to study and report on all phases of certification and training of water utility personnel. In 1960, representatives of WPCF were selected to join the two groups in reviewing the problems. This article summarizes activity during 1952‐1960 concerning operator certification, stating that in the eight‐year span, ten additional voluntary plans were developed and three of the older voluntary plans became, or were replaced by, mandatory ones. This article also discusses the development of mandatory programs, state programs sponsored by the state health departments and state universities, and the inadequacy of some methods of selecting and presenting course material.
Electrophoretic Studies of Coagulation for Removal of Organic Color
Authors: Black A. P. , Willems Donald G.
Published: February 2018

This study discusses how microelectrophoresis is proving to be a valuable tool in measuring the mobility of, and to calculate, where necessary, the zeta potential of a floc particle at any stage of the coagulation process. Thus, a better understanding has been gained of the complex mechanisms that are involved in coagulation. These studies have confirmed numerous observations of other workers which were not supported by this type of experimental data; at the same time, the studies have shown certain other assumptions to be untenable. For example, Miller's belief, widely accepted for many years, that the trivalence of the aluminum and ferric ions is the predominant factor in coagulation has not been confirmed by the authors' studies. On the contrary, Mattson's assumption that the hydrolysis products of the two ions are most effective in reducing or reversing the zeta potential of floc particles has been confirmed. The behavior of the four clays that have been studied to date confirms Langelier's assumption that base exchange is an important factor in the coagulation of clays, and his concept of the importance of “binder alum” in bringing about orthokinetic coagulation is consistent with all of the authors' data. Further work with other clays and other colored waters is needed and will be forthcoming. In addition the role played by natural and synthetic polyelectrolytes as aids to coagulation needs further elucidation. But none of the authors' studies to date has served to minimize the importance of the jar test as the most valuable tool for the practical control of the coagulation process.
Regulation of Privately Owned Water Utilities
Authors: Barr J. J.
Published: February 2018

Regulation applies to as many water companies as it applies to privately owned utilities of other types. On occasion, some people associated with the water supply field get the impression that water companies are poor relations among utilities, overshadowed by the electric, telephone, and gas companies. Water companies are required to comply with essentially the same rules, principles, and requirements of regulation that apply to, and have apparently been promulgated for, operations that are much larger in number of customers, invested or available capital, revenue per customer, or extent of justifiable administrative personnel. This article discusses the attitude of investors, accounting requirements, mergers, regulation of small utilities, and consequences of high application cost.
Planning for National Water Needs
Authors: Kerr Robert S.
Published: February 2018

In this article, U.S. Senator Robert S. Kerr from Oklahoma addresses the AWWA 1961 Annual Conference on the urgent need for comprehensive water resources development. He cites the conclusions of the Senate Select Committee on National Water Resources on five major areas of need, including: regulate streamflow through the construction of surface water reservoirs and through watershed management; improve the quality of streams through better water quality management; explore potential areas for underground water storage; eliminate wasteful practices in irrigation, sewage treatment methods, recirculation, and substitution of air for water cooling; and, support research programs for desalination, weather modification, and other means of increasing water availability and yield. He goes on to list select committee recommendations that include: comprehensive water development and management of all major U.S. river basins; matching federal grants to the states for aid in water resources planning; a federal coordinated, scientific research program on water, including new legislation on saline water conversion and weather modification; and, federal review of the supply‐demand situation in the various river basins.
Water Consumption by Institutions
Authors: Searcy Phillip E. , Furman Thomas deS.
Published: February 2018

In view of the expected continuation of present community expansion trends, and of the pressing need for factual design data for treatment facilities to serve institutions, a study of water consumption rates affecting small treatment plant design was initiated at the University of Florida in the spring of 1960. The purpose of the study was to obtain and evaluate basic water consumption data, to compare them with existing information, and to establish, if possible, reliable water consumption rates which could be used in the design of small water and sewage facilities. To establish these data, the following objectives were set: determine the average, maximum, and minimum consumption rates on a monthly, daily, and hourly basis; determine the relationship between average, maximum, and minimum consumption rates; present reasonable flow factors which may be used in the design of treatment plants to serve the institutions studied; and, present any other relationships that might affect the design of treatment plants for the institution studied. The study was limited to schools, motels, shopping centers, hospitals, and restaurants in the Gainesville, Florida area. The data were taken from monthly records accumulated by the city and from hourly and daily meter readings obtained specifically for the study. At frequent intervals during the survey, all data were reviewed to insure proper coverage of the various types of institutions. The season of the year was also a considered factor in the study. Field readings were made in February and March.
Use of Microwave Radio in Telemetering
Authors: Randolph Harrison T.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses some of the problems, procedures, and equipment that should be carefully considered in laying out a shortwave or microwave telemetering system. Topics covered include: properties of microwaves; Fresnel zone; propogation path survey; obstacles and difficulties; elevation survey; profile plots; repeaters; propogation of microwave energy; generation of microwave energy; Klystron Oscillator; resonant cavity; multiplexing; and, microwave cost.
Telemetering for Small Utilities
Authors: Jorgensen Alfred W.
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate telemetering, discuss cost‐savings, and examine both data available from telemetering and maintenance problems. Topics covered include: automation; justification for telemetering; alarm system; location of controls; guarantee and maintenance; alarm circuit; circular charts; costs; and, automatic meter reading.
Rupture Control in Gas Pipeline From Corning to Eureka, California
Authors: Stannard James H.
Published: February 2018

This article reports on the construction of Pacific Gas & Electric Company's most challenging pipeline that runs from Corning to Eureka, California. The 168‐mile, 12‐inch pipeline traverses some of the most difficult terrain yet to be encountered by the company. Topics covered include: problems of pipeline; importance of quick repair; rupture control equipment; problem of location; mobile radio system; operation of equipment; and, system limitations. The article includes an appendix that contains FCC Docket No. 12028, released June 4, 1959, “Frequencies available for operational fixed stations.”
Lagoon Disposal of Lime Sludge
Authors: Howson Louis R.
Published: February 2018

The disposal of sludge from lime water softening plants has been a major operating problem since municipal lime water softening was begun in the United States some 60 years ago. Although lime sludge disposal by lagooning has been practiced more extensively than all other methods of disposal for several decades, there are few data and little in the literature to assist in avoiding the annoyances commonly arising from this method of disposal. This discussion is an evaluation of some of the variables, in hopes of avoiding some of the difficulties that may arise. Sludge disposal practices in Illinois is discussed, along with sludge volume, and transportation.
Water Resource Problems in Michigan
Authors: Billings Norman F.
Published: February 2018

Despite the abundant water resources in the state of Michigan, a wide range of problems plague the Michigan water industry, many of which stem from lack of consideration and foresight or from public reluctance to come to grips with the issues. Michigan has problems of low streamflow and floods, pollution and water rights, drainage and erosion, and salt water problems. Possibly its greatest water resources problem, however, is the failure of the public to recognize signs of trouble and to take action in a timely manner. This article discusses the importance of convincing the public first that something should be done, and second, that the right thing should be done at the right time.
Demand Rates for Water Service
Authors: Patterson William L.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses how demand metering can offer the customer the opportunity to reduce water charges by controlling water use while reducing the utility's peak demands, and hence its service costs. A demand rate also assures the water utility adequate compensation for the costs incurred in meeting peak demands. With a growing need for conserving plant investment and for awareness of the costs of service, demand rates should receive increasing attention and application. It is of great interest to both the customer and the utility that all pertinent characteristics of water use be fairly taken into account in water rate charges.
Managerial Qualifications
Authors: McCullough Jack A.
Published: February 2018

This symposium paper begins by providing a brief overview of the issues encountered by a water utility manager, and then presents results of a 1958 survey on salaries of water utility managers in the U.S. and Canada. Four recommendations for qualifications for water utility managers are listed and include: all water utility managers should have at least a high school education; any water utility serving a population of 5,000 or more should have a full‐time manager; a utility serving 10,000 or more people should have a full‐time graduate engineer, preferably a registered professional engineer; and, a utility serving a population of 25,000 or more should have a college graduate (or equivalent) as its manager. The article points out that there is a real challenge in recruiting adequately‐qualified managers for small water systems, and provides statistics on population demographics and on utility manager's salaries for the state of Colorado.
Consumer Service
Authors: Lubratovich Mirto D. , Ruble Earl H.
Published: February 2018

This symposium paper discusses the need for a water quality standard as a reference against which water supplies can be measured and as a goal for individual water supply improvement. The paper suggests parameters that might be used as a starting point in developing a quality standard. Characteristics recommended by the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) for compliance in a quality standard as well as a safe water standard are provided.
Three Applications of Instrumentation and Automation
Authors: Aldrich Ellwood H.
Published: February 2018

This article illustrates the use of instrumentation and automation in three types of water supply operations. The first application is in booster station operation in the system of the Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County, Greensburg, Pa. The second is in wells and storage in the Haddon Heights division of the New Jersey Water Company. The third is in a new filtration and pumping plant recently placed in service in the South Pittsburgh Water Company system serving suburban Pittsburgh, Pa. The article includes a discussion by Kenneth F. Knowlton of the Salem and Beverly Water Supply Board, Salem, Ma. He discusses the necessity for carefully fitting instrumentation and control to the individual plant.
Methods of Characterizing Missouri River Organic Materials of Taste and Odor Interest
Authors: Ryckman DeVere W. , Burbank Nathan C. , Edgerley Edward
Published: February 2018

A study on the importance of the presence of taste‐ and odor‐causing materials in the Missouri River was recognized by representatives of industries and municipalities, resulting in the formation of the Missouri River Pollution Monitoring Committee. This committee furnished materials of taste and odor significance for study in the sanitary engineering laboratories of Washington University in St. Louis. The study of these organic materials of taste and odor significance is presented in this article, including study techniques presently used to characterize these organic substances. Results indicate the following: carbon filters are a good tool for the study of organics of taste and odor significance; infrared spectroscopy is useful in proving other methods of characterization; and, characterization through the use of biological degradation studies is important in determining the persistence of organic material having taste and odor significance.