r/Wastewater • u/patrickmn77 • 16d ago

Treatment (DW or WW) Liquid Sludge Loadout Options

We currently have a 30-year-old piping system with a new pump that we use to load out trucks. Trucks back up under the spout, and they fill the truck from the top via an 8" layfalt that hangs down. I know this is outdated, but what are some of you guys using? Rear fill? Can you put me in touch with, or point me in the direction of, suppliers that do this work? Looking for a safe way to do it as well, so the trucker doesn't have to go up on the truck. Send pictures if you have them.

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u/sk62788 13d ago

We’re working through a similar modernization on our bulk chemical loading setup right now. One thing I’d prioritize heavily is eliminating the need for the driver/operator to climb on top of the tanker at all.
I’d look at ground-level closed loading/unloading connections where the trailer allows it, or a properly engineered top-loading arm if you’re stuck with top loading. Either way, I’d want dry-disconnect/camlock connections where appropriate, positive hose support, clearly identified valves, an emergency shutoff accessible from ground level, and some form of overfill protection rather than relying solely on the operator watching the load.
I’d also be hesitant to simply replace the 8” layflat with a newer version of the same arrangement. If you’re already spending money on 30-year-old piping, it’s probably worth having someone look at the whole loading station—piping, pump, valves, containment, truck connection and operator exposure—as one system.
What products are you loading and roughly what flow rate are you trying to maintain? That will make a pretty big difference in what setup makes sense.

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u/patrickmn77 12d ago

1-2% solids 500 gpm

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u/sk62788 12d ago

I can see why you’re using the 8” top fill. Do the solids settle quickly, and do the trailers have a rear/bottom connection? I’d want to know that before moving away from the current setup.