PBJ Engineering Services

How do you know if your site's boiler equipment needs a refresh? For many businesses, a well-maintained boiler is key to operational efficiency. Here are five signs that it might be time for a service clean or an upgrade: 1️⃣ Frequent Breakdowns Regular malfunctions are a clear sign of wear and tear. Don't let downtime disrupt your operations! 2️⃣ Inconsistent Performance If you're noticing fluctuations in heat or steam production, your boiler might be telling you it's struggling. 3️⃣ Visible Damage Keep an eye out for leaks, cracks, or signs of corrosion. These issues can escalate if not addressed promptly. 4️⃣ Increased Energy Bills An inefficient boiler burns through more than just fuel — it can significantly impact your energy costs. 5️⃣ Ageing Equipment Boilers over a decade old may not meet current operational demands or efficiency standards. Don't wait for a breakdown to think about your boiler's health. A thorough clean and consistent maintenance can prevent the build-up of debris and keep your system running smoothly. Let PBJ Engineering Services help you maintain peak efficiency in your boiler — contact us today! #BoilerMaintenance #EnergyEfficiency #IndustrialEngineering #PBJEngineering #FacilityManagement

Another week, another example of how our wastewater contains hidden riches! This time, it's the wastewater from whiskey distillation that's proving its worth. Scientists in Aberdeen have discovered that byproducts from whiskey-making, such as pot ale and spent lees, can replace harmful petrochemicals used in various manufacturing processes, from pharmaceuticals to cosmetics. These byproducts contain valuable chemicals like lactic acid. Using a process called liquid chromatography, these chemicals are isolated and extracted for use in industries that traditionally rely on less sustainable resources. This innovation has the potential to transform manufacturing and significantly reduce carbon emissions. It's a step closer to a circular economy where waste becomes a valuable resource. Let's raise a glass to innovative solutions that turn waste into worth! 🥃 #WastewaterTreatment #WastewaterIndustry #WastewaterEngineer #CircularEconomy #PBJEngineering

Our wastewater treatment centres are getting smarter and smarter. The wastewater centre in Westbury, Wiltshire, is a case in point. It's embracing the power of artificial intelligence. The 'water recycling centre' is being upgraded with a digital twin — a virtual model created using AI that provides early warnings and boosts performance by predicting system behaviours. The trial incorporates the latest monitors, sensors, and controls to transform data into actionable insights, moving from a reactive to a proactive management style. This allows for better data-driven decisions, improving both customer service and environmental performance. The project aims to increase automation, reduce operating costs, and test various technologies to determine their effectiveness and applicability. In short, it's a glimpse into the future of how we will manage wastewater treatment! #WastewaterTreatment #WastewaterIndustry #WasetwaterEngineer #EngineeringExcellence #AI #PBJEngineering

Ever noticed how scale builds up inside your kettle? In an industrial steam boiler that same scale can significantly impact efficiency and safety. Scale is caused by minerals like calcium and magnesium in water. It insulates heat transfer surfaces and can lead to overheating or even catastrophic boiler failure. There are various ways to tackle it: 1️⃣ Water Softening: By treating the feed water with commercial softeners, you can remove hardness salts before they enter the boiler, preventing scale from ever forming. 2️⃣ Chemical Treatment: You can use specialised scale inhibitors to keep those stubborn mineral deposits in check. 3️⃣ Reverse Osmosis (RO): For the ultimate in water purity, RO systems can reduce the mineral content before it reaches critical areas. 4️⃣ Regular Testing: Regular water quality tests ensure everything is functioning as it should, maintaining optimal conditions within the boiler. If you suspect your boiler equipment isn't working properly, scale build-up could be the culprit. But to know for sure, it's best to call in the professionals (that's us!) #SteamBoilers #WaterTreatment #IndustrialMaintenance #PBJEngineering #EngineeringExcellence

Ever wonder how the ancient Egyptians built those colossal pyramids? It turns out they might have been early pioneers in something we're passionate about: water engineering! Recent findings near the Step Pyramid suggest that the Egyptians may have cleverly used water power, using dams and channels to lift massive stones into place. It’s a cool reminder of how integral water management has been throughout history, not just for agriculture or survival but also for monumental achievements. And while we might not be building pyramids, we're proud to keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible with water in our own industry! #EngineeringExcellence #WastewaterIndustry #WastewaterEngineers #PBJEngineering

Treating wastewater consumes between 2-3% of the UK's National Grid energy, but our sewage plants may soon actually create more energy than they consume. At PBJ Engineering Services, we're known for our expertise in thermal hydrolysis, part of the process of generating renewable biogas from sewage sludge. But there are other innovative methods being developed too. A Warwickshire-based company called Wastewater Fuels has pioneered a new technology known as a Microbial Electrolysis Cell (MEC). This helps turn wastewater into hydrogen gas, a clean energy source. Here's how it works: 1️⃣ Stainless steel mesh rods are submerged in wastewater. 2️⃣ Microbes on the rods break down organic matter in wastewater, converting it into hydrogen ions. 3️⃣ These ions are then converted into hydrogen gas within the rods, which is collected for use. This process not only cleans wastewater but also converts it into hydrogen, which is an incredible leap in making wastewater treatment plants energy-positive. It's technologies like these that underline the potential for the wastewater sector to set an example for sustainable innovation across industries. #WastewaterTreatment #RenewableEnergy #WastewaterEngineering #ThermalHydrolysis #SustainableInnovation #PBJEngineering

Let's talk pumps. These vital components in steam boilers and wastewater treatment systems ensure a consistent flow of water and maintain precise pressure levels. If your equipment starts acting up, it could be a sign that the pump is beginning to wear out or malfunction. At PBJ Engineering Services, we're experts in getting to the root of the problem and bringing these critical components back to top condition. 1. Inspection and diagnosis: We meticulously inspect each pump, identifying issues from wear and tear to significant damage. 2. Cleaning: Our team cleans all components to remove buildup that could impair functionality. 3. Part replacement: We replace any faulty parts like seals, bearings, and impellers, ensuring every component is in perfect working order. 4. Reassembly and testing: After reassembly, we rigorously test the pumps under real-world conditions to guarantee they meet all operational standards. Refurbishing pumps minimises downtime and boosts the efficiency and reliability of your entire system. Don't wait for breakdowns to occur — regular checks and maintenance are key to long-term operational success! #EngineeringExcellence #WastewaterEngineering #WastewaterTreatment #SteamBoilers #PBJEngineering

It's a startling fact: only 11% of domestic and industrial wastewater is currently being reused. But some innovative companies are on a mission to change this narrative. Take Membrion, a US-based startup. They're using what sounds like science fiction: electro-ceramic desalination technology. This filters out heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and nutrients from industrial wastewater, making 98% of it reusable. In Bolivia, Aquakit SRL has engineered a system to treat grey water – that's the water from your showers and sinks. Their system can reclaim up to 300,000 litres per month from a 12-story building, repurposing it for toilet flushing and irrigation. Meanwhile, Chile's Kran Nanobubble is making waves with its nanobubble technology, which treats wastewater more efficiently. This is crucial, considering water treatment consumes 4% of global energy. It's great to see these companies pushing the boundaries of technology. Here's to hoping their breakthroughs become widespread! #WastewaterIndustry #WastewaterEngineering #WaterSustainability #PBJEngineering

Nitrates can harm the environment when they enter our waterways. But American researchers have found a new way to remove them, turning a problem into a solution. The Stanford team has developed an innovative method called 'Electrocatalyst-in-a-box'. This efficiently removes nitrates and converts them into ammonia using an electrochemical process. It's more sustainable than traditional methods, as it uses less energy and avoids harmful byproducts. The process is exciting because it's... Sustainable: It recycles nitrates, preventing algal blooms and other ecological problems. Efficient: The system operates with minimal energy, making it cost-effective. Circular: It supports a circular economy by returning valuable nutrients, like nitrogen, back into agricultural use. Smart science in action! #WastewaterTreatment #WastewaterIndustry #WastewaterEngineering #PBJEngineering

Want to save your business thousands of pounds in fuel and chemical costs, not to mention expensive repairs? Make sure your staff are BOAS trained! At PBJ Engineering Services, we provide comprehensive onsite training, including preparation for the Boiler Operation Accreditation Scheme (BOAS). This training isn't just a box-ticking exercise — it's essential for: Legal Compliance: Under PUWER regulations, it’s a legal requirement to train staff to operate equipment safely. With BOAS training, you’re not only compliant but also prepared for any HSE inspections. Cost Efficiency: Properly trained staff can help significantly reduce fuel consumption, chemical use, and repair costs. These savings can be substantial, directly impacting your bottom line. Optimal Performance: Trained operators know how to keep boiler plants at peak efficiency, ensuring your operations are as productive as possible. Whether it's thermal hydrolysis, shell boilers, or sludge treatment, our training covers a wide range of services tailored to your facility's needs. Don't wait for costly downtime or non-compliance issues to remind you of the importance of expert training! #BOASTraining #ThermalHydrolysis #WastewaterTreatment #EnergyEfficiency #PBJEngineering