Optimizing Tank Flushing Using A Rapid Decision-Making Framework

In 2017, a municipal water treatment plant was commissioning a new elevated tank. The tank had been cleaned, flushed and disinfected, but initial test results indicated unacceptable water quality. After a second cleaning, the tank was refilled and water samples were sent to the lab for follow-up testing. Because results would only be returned the following week, the utility had to decide whether to leave the uncirculated water in-situ over the weekend potentially causing further growth and requiring an additional tank draining and cleaning.