"Wisdom begins in wonder" – Socrates
Category: Engineering
Stormwater Retrofits
09/12/24
“How can we retrofit stormwater infrastructure?”
Stormwater infrastructure supports the function of our society. However, it may become outdated with time. This can be solved with Stormwater Retrofits, such as installing detention basins or permeable surfaces.
Individual Stormwater Permits
09/11/24
“What are stormwater permits given to individual facilities?”
Stormwater permits regulate what can and cannot be discharged into the stream. Individual Stormwater permits are required for an individual facility.
Stormwater Permits
09/09/24
“What governs what pollutants facilities can release into US waters?”
Facilities release all types and volumes of pollutants into water bodies. However, if these are not controlled then it can lead to major ecological damage. In the US, this is regulated with Stormwater Permits. Stormwater permits govern what types and volume of pollutants can be released into water bodies.
Why Municipal Combined Storm Sewer Systems May Overflow With Pollution During Floods
09/07/24
“Why may municipal combined storm sewer systems overflow with pollution during floods?”
Municipal combined storm sewer systems use the same drainage pipes for both stormwater and wastewater. The resulting water flow is usually treated after the end. When there is a flood, the normal wastewater combined with the extra stormwater may overflow the pipes, causing the pollution to be dumped into water bodies. This is Why Municipal Combined Storm Sewer Systems May Overflow With Pollution During Floods
Trolley Poles
09/06/24
“How can we transfer electricity from overhead wires to traction motors using cylindrical poles?”
Current collectors come in all shapes and sizes. Trolley poles are cylindrically shaped poles that bring electricity from overhead wires to power traction motors on trams and trains. Trolley poles were popular with earlier trams but have become less popular as more efficient current collectors have taken root.
Image credit https://upload.wikimedia.org/
Public Water Systems
09/05/24
“How does the US define utilities and organizations that provide drinking water?”
Organizations such as utilities provide drinking water to the public. These entities are categorized as Public Water Systems by the United States Federal Government. The US specifically defines water systems as organizations that provide “water for human consumption through pipes or other constructed conveyances to at least 15 service connections or serves an average of at least 25 people for at least 60 days a year.”.
Human Impact on Sedimentation
08/31/24
“How can humans have an impact on sedimentation?”
Sedimentation occurs with the presence of sediments. Human activity such as dam creation or infrastructure construction can disrupt the environment by increasing the amount of sediment in the water.
Multiple-Unit Trains
08/30/24
“What happens when there are multiple train units connected to one another?”
Trains come in all shapes and sizes. Some have multiple carriages connected one after another. These are known as Multiple-Unit Trains and comprise a large portion of trains in operation today.
Heritage Streetcars
08/29/24
“Why do cities have heritage streetcars?”
Streetcars were historically a very popular form of urban transportation. However, with the arrival of the automobile and the introduction of more advanced trams, their popularity fell. Some cities have taken to preserving specific lines through Heritage Streetcars. Heritage streetcars can be seen in cities all over the world, from Nagasaki to San Francisco to Amsterdam.
Isaac's Science Blog 