After testing and analysis by multiple consultants, one of the boilers, 2R, is now back online at the Longwood University Heating Plant. Ben Myers, facilities operations manager for the plant, said the boiler has been online since last weekend and is physically "in good shape."
Myers said there are still a few problems with the other boiler, which is mainly showing signs of too much air when it is placed back online. He said because of this, it remains offline and engineers will be returning around midday Thursday of this week to take another look at the controls.
"Hopefully after Thursday and Friday, we'll be in good shape," said Myers.
As for 2R, Myers said the biggest problem was with the cyclone separators, which had some debris buildup. This was originally highlighted in an article two weeks ago from The Rotunda. "That was totally unusual," Myers commented. While he did not say that was the only problem, he did say it was likely that was a main cause of the issues with that particular boiler.
Myers said there are two main issues left to investigate that include clogged air passages and control work on the other boiler. The two boilers at the plant were tested and evaluated the first week of April. Consultants on hand to test the equipment included AFS, the boiler system manufacturer; Martin Controls; Ross Infrastructure LLC., a mechanical and electrical consulting engineering firm; and Affiliated Engineers, Inc.
Longwood officials first began looking into problems at the plant earlier this semester. In a March 14 statement, Vice President for Facilities Management and Real Property Dick Bratcher said, "We apologize for the recent unintentional episodes of smoke that have caused uncomfortable conditions throughout parts of town. It is our goal to be a good neighbor as we strive also to be good stewards of the state's resources."
For those who noticed heavier than usual smoke Saturday around midnight, Myers said that is when workers rake the ashes out of the firebox. He said at that time, the fans are off and the boiler is left smoldering.
Stay with The Rotunda for more updates.