Servicing Steam Systems at Hanscom Air Force Base

How APM Steam has supported the 66th Air Base Group's steam distribution system since 2012, meeting Department of Defense security, safety, and scheduling standards

The Client

Established in 1942, Hanscom Air Force Base houses the 66th Air Base Group Garrison. Owned by the Department of Defense and controlled by the United States Air Force, this base is responsible for the cycle management of the Air Force's weapons systems. This base also supports various groups related to the Department of Defense, like the MIT Lincoln Laboratory and the Massachusetts National Guard. Hanscom Air Force Base is located 20 miles northwest of Boston.

It is comprised of several different airfields, buildings, and hangars that provide all types of support for their personnel. It also houses personnel and their families, and includes basic healthcare facilities, entertainment centers, and various civil and military administrative services. APM Steam has been servicing Hanscom Air Force Base since 2012, providing a comprehensive facility survey of their steam and heating systems. APM Steam prides itself on servicing different clients closely related to the Department of Defense, honoring their special accommodations and requirements.

The Steam System

During the process of inspecting the steam system at Hanscom Air Force Base, the APM team needs to enter over 65 manholes and vaults in order to test and document over 500 steam traps. In order to do this safely, APM trains every member of its field staff on confined space safety and works with a local standby rescue team.

Service at DoD's Standards

Hanscom Air Force Base has strict criteria for its vendors when it comes to having vetted staff enter the facility, and completing projects within specified hours of operation to avoid interfering with the work that takes place at the base. APM Steam's staff list is checked and provided with security clearance at the beginning of every phase of the project.

APM Steam has been servicing the steam system in vaults and manholes annually since 2012, and on every inspection the team verifies the operation of every steam trap and pressure-operated pump, and notes any piping failures. Every insulation valve in use is greased and exercised. Repairs are scheduled around the annual distribution shutdown of the steam system, so the APM team, along with the standby rescue team, must execute efficiently and without delays, as the project has to be completed within the allotted time.