RvS Group, in collaboration with Kuijpers Industrie, carried out a complete modernization of a wastewater treatment plant. The assignment involved replacing an outdated belt screen press and optimizing the overall installation. The result: more sustainable, safer and more efficient operation with significantly lower maintenance costs.
Project overview
This mechanical engineering project focused on the modernization of an installation for dewatering sewage sludge. As Kuijpers’ engineering partner, RvS Group handled the entire process: from 3D laser scanning and structural design to detailed 2D and 3D engineering documentation, fully aligned with the existing infrastructure.
The assignment combines detail engineering, mechanical design and practical installation optimization within an active environment in the water treatment sector. This project demonstrates how RvS Group translates technical complexity into workable, sustainable solutions.
Challenge
The existing belt screen press, used for dewatering sewage sludge, was constructed from a combination of steel and concrete. After years of exposure to aggressive process conditions, serious corrosion issues and leaks developed, both in liquids and gases.
This had a direct impact on the performance of the installation, the quality of the working environment and maintenance requirements. Ad hoc adjustments were no longer a sustainable solution. A structural approach called for an entirely new mechanical design, with a focus on sealing, material selection and user-friendliness.
Our approach
RvS Group remapped the entire existing situation using a precise 3D laser scan of the site. Based on this scan, the existing belt screen press was worked out in detail in a three-dimensional model, developed in AutoCAD Plant3D and Inventor.
The new structural design was then seamlessly integrated into the existing environment and aligned with the present piping and building structure. Every design choice was aimed at better performance, less maintenance and a safer working environment. This integrated approach is characteristic of RvS Group‘s mechanical engineering approach: technically grounded, practically executable and aligned with the specific requirements of the process industry.
Realization
During the design and engineering process, the following improvements were implemented:
- Improved seals to prevent liquid and gas leaks
- Structural modifications to structurally minimize corrosion
- Optimization for maintenance and accessibility of the entire installation
- Measures to reduce odor emissions and improve working conditions
- Fully stainless steel construction for maximum service life and installation reliability
The installation was designed as a mirrored version of the existing belt screen press and fully integrated into the belt screen press building, including piping, fittings and building structure.
Delivery
RvS Group delivered a complete engineering package, consisting of:
- 3D design of the mirrored belt screen press
- 3D building model including existing and new belt screen press, piping, fittings and building
- 3D laser scan of the belt screen press building as an accurate dimensioning reference
- 2D design of the complete belt screen press
All documents were delivered in accordance with the applicable industry standards and are directly usable for further realization, procurement and purchasing, and management.
Result
The project has resulted in a future-proof and reliable installation that fully aligns with the fully with the existing infrastructure. Leaks and corrosion problems have been effectively eliminated through the use of stainless steel and the implemented mechanicalical improvements.
The renovated installation contributes concretely to:
- A cleaner and safer working environment for operators and maintenance staff
- Reduced odor emissions through improved sealing at gas and liquid level
- Lower maintenance costs through durable material selection and accessible design.
- Better inspection and service options through a well-thought-out installation layout
This project illustrates how RvS Group, in collaboration with partners such as Kuijpers, successfully transforms existing industrial installations into sustainable, efficient and durable, future-proof solutions in the wastewater treatment sector.
Curious what RvS Group can do for your production environment? Get in touch to explore the possibilities.