Case Study: Stainless Steel Process Piping & Field Support for UAJA Wastewater Biosolids Facility

About the Project

The University Area Joint Authority (UAJA) in State College, Pennsylvania, set out to modernize its biosolids processing facility. The goal wasn’t just a simple replacement. It was transformation. Aging composting infrastructure would give way to a next-generation system designed to produce renewable energy, reduce waste, and support long-term regional growth.

To bring that vision to life, Quandel Construction Group led construction efforts, working alongside RETTEW, the engineering firm responsible for design and technical oversight.

As the project moved forward, Quandel needed a fabrication partner capable of delivering complex stainless process piping who could also step in when the realities of construction demanded more boots on the ground.

To complete the transformation, they turned to SWF Industrial.

The Problem

UAJA’s new biosolids facility wasn’t a simple upgrade. It was a complete modernization of how wastewater solids would be processed and reused.

The new system would:

• Break down organic waste using anaerobic digestion
• Produce biogas for renewable natural gas (RNG)
• Dry the remaining material into Class A biosolids suitable for agricultural use

The finished system was projected to produce approximately 100 million cubic feet of renewable natural gas annually — enough energy to supply roughly 1,400 homes each year.

But turning that plan into reality meant navigating complex infrastructure, tight schedules, and technical fabrication requirements.

Quandel issued RFQs in June of 2023 as part of a public bid process. SWF submitted a bid for stainless steel process piping fabrication across multiple systems within the facility. After months of evaluation, Quandel was awarded the project.

In May of 2024, SWF was selected as a key fabrication partner.

At first, the scope centered on fabrication and delivery, but the scope quickly expanded.

Supply chain volatility and workforce availability quickly emerged as risks. Skilled labor was limited. Installation timelines tightened. And the complexity of stainless process piping across multiple systems meant delays in one area could disrupt the entire project.

Quandel needed more than a fabricator. They needed a partner who could adapt.

The Solution

SWF Industrial stepped in with fabrication expertise and field support, a combination that helped stabilize the project as it progressed.

The scope included fabrication of multiple stainless piping systems across the facility:

• Biogas piping (316L stainless steel)
• Gas mix system piping
• Liquid food waste piping
• Food waste mixing piping
• Sludge piping
• Food waste sludge piping
• Internal hydrolysis tank piping
• Hydrogen sulfide removal system piping

Each system required specific material grades, wall thicknesses, and fabrication requirements. In many cases, SWF also provided flange upgrades, supports, discharge stands, and field weld options.

And then came the unexpected need for field support.

As the project progressed, the team found themselves short on skilled labor during installation. SWF stepped up to help, deploying field welders and installation support, helping assemble boiler piping and assist with pipe installation throughout the facility.

Behind the scenes, coordination became just as important as fabrication.

The detailing department worked through submittals without delays. The shop fabricated in installation order. Logistics scheduled consistent deliveries.

Every Thursday, trucks left SWF’s facility headed to State College, a steady rhythm that kept the project moving forward.

No drama. No surprises. Just progress.

The Result

With SWF handling fabrication, logistics, and field support, Quandel’s team was able to shift focus toward other challenges that naturally arise on large infrastructure projects.

The piping scope moved forward with minimal disruption, effectively running on autopilot.

Fabrication stayed on schedule. Deliveries remained consistent. Field installation stayed moving.

And the result was exactly what the project demanded: a coordinated effort across teams that delivered a quality outcome.

The UAJA biosolids facility now stands as a next-generation wastewater processing system. Creating beneficial reuse materials for the region while reducing landfill waste and producing renewable energy.

Behind the scenes, SWF helped make the system come to life with stainless steel piping fabrication, delivery, and field support throughout the project.

This project reinforced the importance of:

• Fabricating in installation order
•  Maintaining consistent delivery schedules
• Communicating across departments
• Staying flexible as needs evolve

Or, as the team put it simply: Ask questions. Stay involved. Don’t assume you know everything.

SWF INDUSTRIAL: A COMPLEX INFRASTRUCTURE FABRICATION PARTNER

Projects like the UAJA Biosolids Facility demand coordination, adaptability, and a partner who can step in when challenges arise.

From stainless process piping fabrication to field support and coordinated deliveries, SWF Industrial helped this next-generation wastewater facility progress every step of the way. By working closely with Quandel and supporting the broader project team, SWF delivered a reliable solution that helped bring the UAJA Biosolids Facility to life.

If you’re looking for a fabrication partner who can support your next complex infrastructure project, start a conversation with SWF Industrial today.

(717)252-3948
www.swfindustrial.com
sales@swfindustrial.com