What Are The Challenges Of Wastewater Rehabilitation?

May 30, 2019 | Educational

What Are The Challenges Of Wastewater Rehabilitation?

Aging sewer infrastructure is a problem facing the entire country. Systems put in place decades ago are beginning to deteriorate and become inefficient. For a long time, this was a major problem for cash strapped municipalities that did not have the budget for a total reconstruction of their damaged systems.

Today, there are effective alternatives to total reconstruction that will rehabilitate damaged wastewater systems and extend the life of the structure by 50 years or longer. Advanced polyurea coatings are cost-effective and “designed to create highly elastic waterproof coating and lining systems that are resistant to chemicals and abrasions,” according to an article written by WaterWorld. The article goes on to say that “they are ideal linings for immersed surfaces and will resist hydrogen sulfide.”

With the advancement in polyurea coating options to rehabilitate wastewater systems, it is easier than ever to maintain and prolong the life of an aging sewer infrastructure. This is increasingly important, because if left unaddressed, infiltration, corrosion and deterioration can lead to major challenges.

Infiltration leads to rising costs

A frequent issue facing wastewater structures is cracks in the concrete walls and damaged or missing gasket material in fittings and joints. These issues can be particularly troublesome on rainy days, as they allow groundwater to penetrate the system. The wastewater treatment plant can’t tell the difference between clean groundwater and wastewater, so all the water brought in through the sewer system must be processed.

This doesn’t sound so bad until you consider the cost of unnecessarily treating groundwater that has infiltrated the aging wastewater structure. First, pumping the water involves electrical costs. Then you have to factor in costs for the additional chemicals needed to treat the influx of water. Finally, all treatment facilities are permitted by regulators for maximum capacity. As more and more water leaks through the cracks and joints, water treatment plants begin to face capacity excess. This often results in monetary fines from regulatory agencies.

Corrosion damages structural integrity

Hydrogen sulfide in the wastewater system creates a highly corrosive environment. There is no way to avoid these gases in the wastewater system, which is why maintaining and protecting manholes and pump stations is vital. Over time, the hydrogen sulfide will begin to deteriorate the structure, leaving unprotected concrete surfaces exposed to the harmful gas.

If these damaged manholes or pump stations are not rehabilitated or replaced, the integrity of the structure will become affected. The worst-case scenario would result in a cave-in or sinkhole that jeopardizes the safety of anyone or anything in the vicinity of the structure.

Certified OBIC installers offer no-dig solutions

OBIC offers polyurea coatings that are spray applied and cure in minutes. With an experienced, OBIC certified installer on the job, your systems will be up and running at peak efficiency with minimal downtime. To learn more about OBIC products, or to find an installer near you, contact our team online or by calling 866-636-4854.

Chief Financial Officer

KRISTI KIMPEL

With more than 16 years of experience in the trenchless technology industry, Kristi has been with OBIC since the company’s conception. In that time, Kristi has worn many hats while managing the front office: accounting, safety, marketing, event planning, insurance, and shipping and receiving, just to name a few.

Prior to joining the OBIC team, Kristi worked for a transportation broker as an onsite representative for the customers while also serving as an internal transportation specialist. She stays involved in the local manufacturing industry by maintaining active membership in the Black Swamp Safety Council. In addition, she participates in leadership positions for Williams County, learning how the community works and using it as an avenue to be more involved.

In her free time, Kristi stays busy with her two kids who are involved in a variety of extracurricular clubs and sports. She also serves as a school board member and as an archery coach where she is committed to teaching archery basics as well as important life skills. She is passionate about growing and leading women in discipleship programs and wants to positively influence others around her.

 

Physical Properties:

  • Z

    Tensile Strength: 3351 psi
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    Elongation: 395%
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    Hardness: 48D
  • Z

    Tear Resistance: 417 pli
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    SWAT ASTM G210: Pass

CEO/Chief Visionary Officer

DUSTIN SCHLACHTER

Dustin Schlachter is dedicated to providing water and wastewater system repair and maintenance solutions that are both affordable and long-lasting. With a visionary mindset, he is responsible for setting the strategic course for OBIC and ensuring high growth initiatives and strong partnerships as he leads the company toward the future.

Dustin’s entrepreneurial aspiration has held him captive to the trenchless technology field since 1999 when he and his father founded S&S Directional Boring. No stranger to change management, he has successfully led multiple companies as they embraced new infrastructure rehabilitation technologies. In 2007, Dustin founded Advanced Rehabilitation Technology where he continued to grow and expand his work to include infrastructure rehabilitation through lining and coating system applications. This expansion allowed him to strengthen the executive and visionary skills he would need one day to lead a global company.

Dustin continues to expand upon and share his knowledge of the industry by serving as a member and past president of the Great Lakes Trenchless Association. He is also an active member of the National Association of Sewer Service Companies and the Water Environment Federation.

A devoted husband and father of three, Dustin finds enjoyment and relaxation in outdoor activities like landscaping and gardening. Dustin is dedicated to learning and growing in faith, and his life goal is to help others grow as well.​

 

Marketing Manager

Lee Drugan

Lee Drugan is a seasoned Marketing Manager with over 12 years of experience, specializing in bridging the gap between complex industries and their audiences. Lee’s core passion lies in helping companies and individuals understand their ‘Why’ – which is usually a great connection between customer and the company they choose to work with.

Lee’s approach to marketing is defined by adaptability, integrity, and confidence. Understanding that change is constant and trust is essential, Lee develops marketing strategies that genuinely connect with audiences. With a Degree in Management/Marketing from Ashland University, he has expertise in adaptive strategies, digital marketing, and video/content creation, allowing him to create engaging and educational content that leaves a lasting impact.

In current roles, particularly as Marketing Manager for OBIC, Lee is responsible for all facets of marketing and advertising. Lee thrives on the challenge of highlighting the critical role of infrastructure maintenance. His marketing philosophy highlights the power of engaging and educational content, with a strong focus on brand perception and lasting results.

Outside of work, Lee finds joy in traveling with his family and creating opportunities for his kids to excel in what they love.

 

 

Member & Business Development

TROY REED

Troy is responsible for member and business development at OBIC and brings over 35 years of experience in water and wastewater infrastructure construction to the position. From fieldwork to project management, Troy’s industry experience includes a proven track record of expertly communicating a client’s objectives to the crews who are performing the work on-site. No stranger to coordinating high-priority projects, Troy ensures client satisfaction while successfully managing multiple crews of up to 130 employees who are working simultaneously on water and wastewater infrastructure projects on both residential and commercial sites.

Troy’s favorite pastimes include boating, fishing and camping, but his true passion is spending time with his three grandchildren. Although his work schedule keeps him busy, Troy and his wife enjoying finding time to rehabilitate houses.

 

Director of Corporate Training

TREY RUSSELL HESSELSCHWARDT

Before holding the Director of Corporate Training role for OBIC, Trey held various positions including Crew Leader, Project Manager, and Safety Manager at Advanced Rehabilitation Technology (ART), an OBIC certified installer.

As OBIC’s Director of Corporate Training, Trey leads the development and delivery of training programs that ensure applicators are well-versed in OBIC products, equipment, and best practices. He provides hands-on instruction in product use and maintenance, while also contributing to ongoing research and development efforts. His technical knowledge and field experience makes him a trusted resource for both internal teams and external partners, guiding customers in selecting and applying the right solutions for their needs.

Trey holds an Associate Degree in Project Management Technology and maintains several professional certifications, including BCSP Certified Health and Safety Technician, OSHA 40-Hour Certification, and Confined Space Certification. He currently serves as Treasurer for the Polyurea Development Association (PDA), where he supports the advancement of industry standards and practices.

Prior to joining ART, Trey served honorably in the U.S. Army as a Combat Medic for seven years, a background that reflects his strong sense of discipline, leadership, and service.

Outside of work, Trey enjoys spending time outdoors camping, hiking, and hunting with his wife Jamie and their two sons, Jones and Charlie. He’s also an avid sports fan and a proud supporter of the University of Michigan.

 

 

Director of Technology

BOB KLOPFENSTEIN

Bob Klopfenstein has been with OBIC since July of 2018. With over 35 years in the chemical and sewer lining coating, Bob has experience working with clients in every industry that OBIC serves. Over the past 15 years, his focus has been on offering repair and maintenance solutions for the water and wastewater structure rehabilitation industry.

Bob holds a bachelor’s degree from Bradley University and stays current on industry challenges and trends by participating in professional organizations that include the Water Environment Federation, National Association of Sewer Service Companies and North American Society for Trenchless Technology.

In his free time, Bob enjoys golfing, gardening and wine collecting.

 

Vice President of Business Development

MIKE HOFFMASTER

Mike Hoffmaster has over 38 years of experience working in the construction industry, with the last 14 spent in trenchless technology. His experience, which includes working with local construction firms and national manufacturers, makes him uniquely qualified to support and develop OBIC’s network of certified installers and to introduce OBIC products to new markets.

Mike earned his bachelor of science from Shepard University while working full-time in a precast concrete plant. He has helped to open new markets across North America and in Europe. Mike is active with numerous industry organizations, committees and serves on several Board of Directors.

Committed to giving back to his community, Mike has served as the track and field organizer for the Special Olympics for over 32 years and has volunteered with local high school athletics for 37 years. In his free time, Mike enjoys cooking, traveling and photography.