lift station

civil engineering

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

A lift station, also known as a pumping station, is a crucial component in civil engineering, specifically within wastewater collection systems. These stations are constructed when gravity alone cannot move sewage due to low points or unfavorable topography. Lift stations house specialized pumps designed to handle raw sewage.

There are two primary types of lift stations:
* Wet-well installation: Features a single chamber that receives and stores sewage before it's pumped out. Submersible pumps are located at the bottom of this chamber.
* Dry-well installation: Utilizes two separate chambers. One chamber holds the wastewater, while the other encloses and protects the pumps and controls, allowing for easier maintenance.

Regardless of the type, lift stations typically include at least two pumps to ensure continuous operation, with one pump available for repair while the other is in use.1

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wastewater treatment
Pumps
…are installed in structures called lift stations. There are two basic types of lift stations: dry well and wet well. A wet-well installation has only one chamber or tank to receive and hold the sewage until it is pumped out. Specially designed submersible pumps and motors can be located at…
Read More
…are installed in structures called lift stations. There are two basic types of lift stations: dry well and wet well. A wet-well installation has only one chamber or tank to receive and hold the sewage until it is pumped out. Specially designed submersible pumps and motors can be located at…
Read More