KC-46A Bureau of Reclamation Waterline Relocation

This project at Tinker Air Force Base demonstrates complex horizontal design capabilities at an active military base requiring extensive coordination between two federal agencies (USACE and Bureau of Reclamation). The 100% design relocates approximately 9,500 LF of the existing 24-inch waterline to support the KC-46A MILCON program and supporting facilities.

Project Scope

The existing raw waterline provides the primary water supply for the city of Del City, OK. The existing waterline alignment interferes with construction of new KC-46A three-bay hangar on Tinker AFB. The new raw waterline was designed and constructed to maintain the current flow rate and head loss to match that of the existing portion of the waterline to be replaced. Design was closely coordinated with Central Oklahoma Master Conservancy District (COMCD).

The existing waterline will remain in service until replacement pipeline is placed in service, with a disruption not to exceed 7 calendar days. The existing waterline will be grout filled or abandoned in place once the new relocated portion has been installed and approved.

Our team provided topographic surveying and subsurface utility engineering for the entire waterline alignment.

Design charrettes
The early design charrette process involved bringing together key stakeholders, including representatives from USACE, Bureau of Reclamation, COMCD, Tinker AFB, and other relevant agencies or departments, to collaboratively discuss and brainstorm design solutions for the waterline relocation. This process focused on identifying challenges, exploring various design options, and reaching a consensus on the most suitable approach considering technical requirements, environmental concerns, and project constraints.

Concept designs
These initial designs outlined proposed alignments for the waterline relocation, considering factors such as alignment, elevation, material selection, and construction methodology. Concept designs served as a basis for further refinement and development during the DB process.

Planning and scheduling management
The planning and scheduling management process involved developing a comprehensive project plan that outlined key milestones, deliverables, and resource allocations. This would include scheduling regular meetings and progress reviews to ensure coordination among the project team members and adherence to project timelines. Project management software may have been utilized to track progress and manage project schedules efficiently.

Preparing drawings and specifications
Drawings and specifications were prepared in accordance with project requirements. This would include detailed engineering drawings illustrating the waterline alignment, profiles, connections, and other relevant information. Specifications outlined technical specifications, materials, construction methods, and quality standards to be followed during implementation.

Experience in providing quality designs consistent with the firm’s design quality management plan
Our team’s experience providing quality designs consistent with our design quality management plan involves adhering to established design processes, quality control procedures, and industry best practices. The team developed a hydraulic model of the water system to properly size and locate air relief valves and demonstrate that the pressure loss would not impact the overall system. This ensures that designs meet or exceed client expectations, regulatory requirements, and project objectives.

Project Challenges
Project challenges included navigating the complexities of working within an active military base, coordinating with multiple federal agencies, coordinating with the construction of the new Tinker AFB Commercial Gate that conflicted with a portion of the waterline alignment, ensuring minimal disruption to the existing water supply, managing subsurface utilities, and addressing environmental considerations. Overcoming these challenges required effective communication, collaboration, and innovative problem-solving strategies.

Innovation
We proposed the use of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Dimension Ratio (DR) 21 in lieu of the Ductile Iron Pipe (DIP) Pressure Class 200psi for the new pipeline materials. This material provided several economic benefits to all stakeholders by reducing product delivery time, reducing construction time, and reducing material costs. The hydraulic model the design team produced during design demonstrated that this alternate material did not impact the overall performance of the waterline.

Local Conditions
Consideration of where Tinker Air Force Base is located was important throughout the project, including factors such as soil conditions, terrain characteristics, climate considerations, and regulatory requirements specific to the project location. Adapting designs and construction methods to suit local conditions ensures project success and resilience against environmental factors.