Basics of How a Storm Drainage System Works

A storm drainage system is an integral network of pipes and apparatus that convey accumulated runoff water to a release point. Drainage system blueprints are developed by engineers and installed by pipeline contractors. Each storm drainage system incorporates catchment devices to seize large pieces of debris and lower the quantity of discharged waste. Drainage systems are necessary for swiftly getting rid of storm water so that it does not accumulate on roads and surface areas and cause flooding. Contractors setup different sizes of pipes and connectors so that the system can transport water to the designated point of discharge. Drainage pipes can range in diameter from 4to 114-inches. Storm drainage systems function by diverting water flow via underground pipes to the discharge location. Storm water is released into larger bodies of water. This can include oceans, rivers, lakes and detention or retention ponds. Storm water doesn't undergo any treatment or filtration process, so unfortunately any debris or contaminants are washed out into waterways. Storm water runoff often contains an assortment of harmful chemicals and waste including petroleum products, pesticides, animal waste, sediment, and eroded soil. Wildlife and aquatic life are adversely affected when these types of contaminants are released into the environment. Around 30 percent of pollutants present in the United States waters are a direct result of storm water runoff. One strategy for minimizing the amount of discharged pollutants is to redirect runoff water to detention ponds where it is stored and treated prior to release. Two types of detention ponds are utilized with storm drainage systems. The most common is wet detention ponds which are used to treat storm water runoff. The other is dry utility ponds which are used to hold water and slowly release it into the ground or bodies of water. Both wet and dry ponds filter contaminants before the water is discharged. Wet detention ponds provide an additional benefit to the environment. These ponds provide a healthy habitat for wild animals and birds and are an ideal solution for wildlife conservation. Engineers and pipeline contractors have to collect a substantial amount of data in order to develop blueprints and installation procedures. Engineers need to locate existing subsurface pipelines and utilities and main outfall, and calculate the rate and direction of water flow.
WATER * SEWER * FIRE LINE * STORM DRAIN * SUBSURFACE UTILITY ENGINEERING 1639 E. Miraloma Avenue * Placentia, CA 92870 * P (714) 986-1400 * F *714) 986-1416 www.KanaPipeline.com LIC 461487A

Pipeline construction companies employ subsurface utility engineering methods to pinpoint the exact location of existing pipes. SUE is a priceless tool that helps contractors reduce construction costs and minimize costly delays. In addition, the accurate data provided through SUE methods helps contractors provide a safer work environment. Many factors are considered during the design phase of drainage systems. Engineers need to asses the water flow rate and how long it takes for storm water runoff to reach inlets, along with pipe sizes, maximum trunk line capacity, and locations of detention ponds and inlets. It is absolutely necessary to employ pipeline companies that make use of subsurface utility engineering and are skilled in installing a complete storm drainage system. Look for companies that strive for excellent construction safety and environmental protection.

WATER * SEWER * FIRE LINE * STORM DRAIN * SUBSURFACE UTILITY ENGINEERING 1639 E. Miraloma Avenue * Placentia, CA 92870 * P (714) 986-1400 * F *714) 986-1416 www.KanaPipeline.com LIC 461487A