Operartion

The Aqua-Guardian™ is suspended inside a catch basin by a stainless steel support collar that serves to funnel runoff into the sediment collection and storage area. This support forms a baffle around the inside of the insert which acts to trap floatable debris, even during overflow conditions.

Operation begins when stormwater enters the Aqua-Guardian™ from the surface and accumulates in the sediment chamber. As runoff continues, water flows through the locked filter screen standpipe and is evenly distributed over the filter media. Water permeates downward by gravity flow through the filter media before exiting the insert through the base plate. As the runoff flow rate continues to increase, water rises in the sediment chamber to the level of the filter screen outlets that are built into the perimeter of the structure. The internal high-flow bypass openings at the top of the structure minimize the potential of water backing onto the surface grade. The baffle formed by the stainless steel support collar prevents captured debris from exiting through the overflow holes.

Installation

Installation is a simple process of removing the surface grate cover and lowering the Aqua-Guardian™ into the catch basin. Since the device is constructed of lightweight and durable High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), it is possible that a unit can be installed without the need for special lifting equipment. First, the storm grate cover needs to be removed, which could necessitate the use of lifting equipment depending on the weight and size of the cover. The support collar on the Aqua-Guardian™ is custom fitted to the inside frame of the surface grate. The flange on the support collar rests on the same rim that receives the surface grate cover. Once the insert is properly seated on the metal rim, replace the grate cover.

The Aqua-Guardian™ can be used in most standard catch basins or storm drains, regardless of age or location. Custom fabrication of the support collar allows the device to fit nearly every size or shape of an existing catch basin. Dimensions of surface drain openings need to be accurately recorded on the Aqua-Guardian™ site worksheet to ensure proper installation.

Maintenance

Consistently implemented maintenance programs are essential to ensure the long term functionality and performance of the Aqua-Guardian™ Catch Basin Insert. A routine inspection and maintenance program should address (1) the volume or load of the contaminants of concern, (2) the frequency of releases of contaminants at the site, and (3) the characteristics of the drainage area. An Inspection and Maintenance Manual is provided for each project installation to track ongoing maintenance needs. We recommend that Aqua-Guardian™ inserts be inspected after significant storm events following installation to determine an appropriate maintenance frequency. At a minimum, these insert devices should be inspected on a monthly to quarterly basis.

Aqua-Guardian™ inspections can usually be accomplished from the surface without the need to remove the catch basin grate. Use a tape measure to gauge the amount of sediment in the collection area. When the sediment level reaches the bottom of the perimeter filter screen outlets, the unit should be serviced. The first step in maintaining a unit requires the removal of the surface grate cover. A wet/dry shop-vac is often used to remove debris and sediment collected inside the chamber; and of course, other larger vacuum systems can be used as warranted. The locking centerpiece is removed by rotating the assembly with the “T” handle on top of the filter screen standpipe. Once the centerpiece assembly is removed, the filter container will be visible and ready for removal. Next, remove any residual sediment in the filter area and place a new filter container in the unit. Press down on all sides of the newly installed filter container to ensure good contact with the outside walls. The centerpiece assembly is then replaced and rotated (or locked) under the fitted guides. Maintenance is completed by returning the surface grate cover to its normal position.