The PISTA WORKS headworks system from Smith & Loveless combines screening, grit removal and grit washing in one integrated unit. There are five models in capacities from 0.5 to 7.0 mgd, the largest measuring 12 feet wide by 49 feet long.

The pre-assembled system is made of stainless steel and includes the PISTA 360 grit chamber with V-FORCE baffle, Smith & Loveless turbo grit pump, and PISTA TURBO grit washer with Tri-Cleanse Technology.

Components include ANSI-flanged connections, 6-mm fine auger screen, and manual bypass bar screen for removal of items such as disposable wipes and hygiene products. Two platforms allow easy access to the system. The unit has an epoxy-coated carbon steel skid support with concrete fill. It includes PLC-based controls with touchscreen, a color HMI interface, and a NEMA 4X operating panel.

The V-FORCE baffle directs inlet flow into the chamber, ensuring proper vortex flow and maximum travel for the most effective grit removal. The outlet baffle directs flow out of the system and acts as a slice weir to control the water level in the main chamber and in the inlet channel. No other downstream flow control device is required. Velocity is sustained between 3.5 fps at peak flow and 1.6 fps at minimum flow with a 10:1 turn down.

The centrifugal grit pump is available in top-mounted vacuum-primed and remote-mounted flooded suction configurations. It has a heavy-duty, solid stainless steel shaft, heavy-duty bearings and mechanical seal.

The grit washer uses an inlet hopper to receive the mixture of water and grit from the second stage PISTA grit concentrator. Parallel plates in the settling zone of the hopper help retain fine grit, protecting downstream equipment from abrasive wear. Collected grit is washed to minimize odor, dewatered, and ready for disposal.

“The application we see with this unit is for plants that don’t have a grit removal system or have a very simplified system,” says Regina Rigsby Higgins, PISTA product manager. “We see this being a benefit for the smaller plant as more environmental regulations take effect.”

The system is delivered ready to pipe. “That’s the biggest benefit,” Higgins says. “It’s a plug-and-play system.” Once installed, the unit automatically performs all grit removal. Minimal maintenance is required. 913/888-5201; www.smithandloveless.com.