Intake Systems - 316(b) Compliance with Cook Legacy Intake Systems

Cook Legacy has the knowledge and technology to help plants comply with the EPA 316(b) rule.  Cook Legacy works on site design, wedge wire intake screens, and custom designed intake systems.

On March 28, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed regulations under section 316(b) of the Clean Water Act. The regulations set standards for cooling water intake structures regarding the protection of fish and other aquatic organisms. Under the proposed regulations, power plants would have to prevent entrainment and impingement of fish as water is withdrawn from nearby rivers and lakes. The EPA has found that passive screens are an ideal technology for freshwater rivers. Passive screens are also specified as the technology of choice for several ocean, lake, and estuarine sites.

The EPA findings have not determined a Best Technology Available; however, velocity reduction is clearly a effective path to adherence to the rule.  Cylindrical wedge wire screens are the best way to attain velocity reduction. However, wedge wire screens do not always fit in an available space. When wedge wire screens don't work, a modified vertical traveling screen can be used. If the problem is seasonal, a barrier net can be deployed.

Cook Legacy's passive intake screens are a technology-based solution for 316(b) compliance. When a more nuanced solution is required, Cook Legacy brings knowledge of screening technology, flow modification, airburst, and how to use these tools to address difficult site concerns such as sedimentation, clogging, biofouling, and corrosion.