Fiberglass Protection for Headworks Building Upgrade Case Study
Shelter Works partnered with Pelton Environmental to provide a custom engineered fiberglass enclosure for a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) optimization and expansion project. The treatment plant required a durable, corrosion-resistant structure to house a bar screen as part of a headworks system upgrade. The Shelter Works solution, a 14' x 16' x 10' fiberglass building, offered superior protection for equipment and personnel, as well as protection from freezing temperatures, in a hazardous, high-moisture, C1D1 environment.
Fiberglass Headworks Building
The headworks at a wastewater treatment plant is the first stage of processing, where large debris is removed to protect downstream equipment. These systems are commonly placed outdoors however, they can be negatively impacted by freezing temperatures. This application required an enclosure that could withstand continuous exposure to moisture, hydrogen sulfide gas, and potentially hazardous conditions while maintaining structural integrity and safety compliance. The project also required explosion-proof electrical components due to the presence of flammable gases typical of wastewater treatment.
Custom Shelter Works Solution
Shelter Works custom manufactured an enclosure specifically engineered to meet the demands of the application. The shelter’s design included a roof truss system and 2-1/2” foam in the walls for increased structural stability to support the enclosure’s 10’ walls and 14’ width. Wood in all four walls and 3” fastener spacing improve the shelter’s strength and ability to withstand higher snow loads.
The shelter was also designed with safety and convenience in mind. The shelter has two doors. One is an insulated manual operation roll-up door for moving larger items in and out of the enclosure. The second is a single man door with a safety glass window that allows for easy access and visibility within the shelter prior to opening the door.
In wastewater treatment, organic matter decomposes and releases gases like methane and hydrogen sulfide. These gases are highly flammable, creating a hazardous atmosphere, particularly in confined spaces like an equipment enclosure. To mitigate ignition risks, all electrical components within the enclosure are C1D1 rated, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and protecting both equipment and operators. This shelter features a C1D1 explosion proof electrical system that includes a switch, incandescent light fixtures, and hazardous location HVAC comprised of an exhaust fan, thermostat, and heater.
Why Shelter Works
Fiberglass is the ideal building material for wastewater treatment environments for several reasons:
- Corrosion Resistance: Unlike metal structures, fiberglass does not rust or corrode when exposed to moisture and chemicals.
- Protection From the Elements: Insulating materials offer energy efficient protection from freezing temperatures.
- Longevity & Low Maintenance: Unlike concrete or metal, fiberglass requires minimal upkeep and has an extended lifespan making for a lower total lifetime cost of ownership.
- 25 Year Warranty: Shelter Works believes in the strength and durability of their fiberglass enclosures and backs them with a 25 Year warranty.
Shelter Works and Pelton Environmental worked together to provide the wastewater treatment plant with a custom-engineered fiberglass enclosure that enhances safety, longevity, and operational efficiency. The explosion-proof design, durable construction, and corrosion resistance make it an ideal solution for protecting critical field equipment in unforgiving environments.
By choosing fiberglass over traditional materials, this WWTP is ensuring long-term reliability, reduced maintenance, and compliance with hazardous location requirements—ultimately supporting a more efficient wastewater treatment process.