This is a request for an emergency procurement of Variable-Frequency Drives (VFDs) from GoForth Williamson (GWI) in an amount of $97,485.

The influent pumps are critical to the operation of the treatment facility because they are responsible for conveying incoming wastewater into the plant for treatment. The VFDs control the speed of the influent pumps and are an integral component of the facility’s SCADA control system. Through SCADA, an operating set point is established based on the required influent flow, and the VFDs automatically adjust and maintain the pump speed necessary to achieve that set point. This coordinated operation is essential for maintaining reliable and controlled influent flow into the treatment process. 

The existing VFDs have been in service since the early 2000s and are reaching the end of their useful service life. The need for replacement has become critical, as one of the pumps is currently operating with a VFD that does not properly fit within the existing cabinet. As a result, the pump must be operated in manual bypass at 100 percent speed. This prevents the VFD and SCADA system from properly controlling the pump based on the established set point and eliminates the ability to automatically adjust pump speed in response to changing influent conditions. Operating the pump in this manner is not a safe, reliable, or sustainable long-term solution. 

Replacing the VFDs will restore the intended integration between the pumps, VFDs, and SCADA system, allowing the influent pumps to operate automatically and respond appropriately to established operating set points. This is necessary to maintain reliable influent conveyance and support the continued safe and effective operation of the treatment facility. The Department plans to replace the remaining two VFDs in the next fiscal year as part of a phased replacement strategy. However, the immediate replacement of the two identified VFDs is necessary to restore proper pump control and eliminate the current reliance on manual bypass operation. GoForth Williamson (GWI) is the authorized representative for Danfoss VFDs, which are the standard VFDs utilized by the department.

Delivery: As needed. Terms: Net 30 days. The vendor is:

S.S. GoForth Williamson (GWI) (Griffin, GA) (D) $97,485.00 

A pre-bid meeting was not conducted, as this was an emergency procurement. (D) Indicates a non-local, non-DBE business. 

Approval