WIPP Supplemental Ventilation System

Carlsbad, NM

Project Objective

The Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) was designed to permanently dispose of transuranic radioactive waste left over from the research and production of nuclear weapons. The client requested design and procurement of a new, supplemental underground booster fan.

Unique Project Features

Due to the secure nature of the facility, the project was subject to NQA-1 quality assurance requirements.  The fan is installed 2300 feet below ground in a mine tunnel.

Encorus Group Solution

Completed in 2016, Encorus provided a fully automated fan solution.  The fan is a 150HP, VFD-driven, 6 foot diameter vane axial fan.  It is controlled with an Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC and PanelView HMI.  The operator can enter a setpoint in CFM and the system will control the fan speed and damper to provide the requested air flow.

Specific Project Tasks

  • Design a fan to meet the flow requirements
  • Procure all components for delivery to fan manufacturer
  • Full factory test for all functions
  • Deliver and commission fan at client site