Optimizing Network Infrastructure for a Regional Water Treatment Facility
A regional water treatment facility faced the challenge of modernizing its aging fiber optic network to ensure reliable operations and accommodate future growth. The project required a complete overhaul of the existing infrastructure, including the replacement of outdated multimode fiber optic cables and supporting systems, all while maintaining uninterrupted plant operations.
Key Challenges
- Outdated Infrastructure: The existing 62.5 multimode fiber optic backbone was no longer capable of meeting the facility’s needs.
- On-the-Fly Adaptations: During excavation, unforeseen obstacles, such as a tunnel bond beam, necessitated significant redesigns of proposed pathways.
- Safety and Compliance: The installation environment involved potential chemical exposure, requiring adherence to stringent OSHA safety standards.
Scope of Work
The project included a comprehensive range of activities:
1. Infrastructure Removal and Replacement:
- Removed all legacy fiber optic cables, copper cables, and associated hardware.
- Designed and implemented a modernized underground duct bank to provide robust connectivity.
2. Advanced Fiber Optic Installation:
- Installed over 19,000 feet of armored single-mode and 3,200 feet of armored OM3 multimode fiber optic cables.
- Utilized fusion splicing for all fiber terminations, ensuring high-performance connectivity.
- Deployed 42 fiber equipment enclosures, including stainless steel options in corrosive chemical environments.
3. Conduit Enhancements:
- Installed over 7,000 feet of rigid galvanized conduit and 1,200 feet of PVC conduit with explosion-proof connections.
- Incorporated Maxcell conduit sleeves for streamlined cable management and future scalability.
4. Safety Measures:
- Followed OSHA standards and utilized specialized detection equipment for work in hazardous environments.
- Mechanically sealed conduits to prevent chemical infiltration.
Innovative Solutions
The unexpected discovery of an underground tunnel bond beam required a complete redesign of the proposed pathways. The team engineered an alternate route, resulting in an extended scope and a total project investment exceeding $940,000. These changes ensured a seamless integration of the new network infrastructure with the facility’s operational needs.
Results
The upgraded fiber optic network has transformed the facility’s communication backbone by:
- Providing faster, more reliable connectivity.
- Ensuring scalability for future technology requirements.
- Enhancing safety and durability in chemically harsh environments.
Ongoing Collaboration
Following the success of this project, additional network enhancements have been completed to further optimize the facility’s operations.
Why Choose Us?
With extensive experience in designing secure, scalable networks for private corporations, government agencies, and public utilities, we deliver innovative solutions tailored to your unique needs. From overcoming unexpected challenges to adhering to the highest safety standards, we are your trusted partner in infrastructure modernization. Ready to modernize your network?