Step-by-Step Septic Design Using TPC

Richard L. Wilkerson & Associates, Inc. shared a quick outline of their septic design process using TPC: 

Start with a blank template.

1. Using Traverse PC, open a custom template and draw in parcel information from county-provided surveys and/or plats. This includes manually entering line bearings and lengths.

2. Perform field work with a Sokkia IX series robotic total station, Sokkia RC-PR5A and Topcon FC-5000 data collector.

3. Import RAW data points into Traverse PC, align field-located property corners with previously drawn property lines.

4. Generate topographic contours using RAW data points and Traverse PC Surfaces.

5. Manually draw in septic system design components and features using the Draw toolbar.

6. Create a specifications page by opening pre-designed templates based on the type of septic system. Enter in or replace design-specific information.

Once a design is complete and approved through the local health jurisdiction, a separate firm installs the septic system.

7. Return to the site to inspect the septic system installation. Field locate components using a Sokkia IX series robotic total station, Sokkia RC-PR5A and Topcon FC-5000 data collector.

8. Open an asbuilt drawing in Traverse PC by creating a duplicate of the design drawing. Remove unnecessary features. Import RAW data points into Traverse PC, align with previously located components.

9. Manually draw in septic system components as installed on site using the Draw toolbar.

I recently demonstrated the process of creating a basic, scaled site plan for an installer. Installation firms are allowed to complete septic tank replacements without an engineer or designer as long as they submit scaled, legible drawings. Here is a quick, simplified version of the above:

1. Using Traverse PC, open a custom template and draw in parcel from county-provided information. This includes manually entering line lengths to draw approximate property lines.

2. Perform field work to hand measure house dimensions and approximate house and septic system locations. If available, county asbuilt record drawings may provide this information.

3. Manually draw in existing septic system components and site features using the Draw toolbar.

Tank replacement proposal is then approved through the local health jurisdiction.

4. Return to the site to install the septic tank. Field locate new tank.

5. Open an asbuilt drawing in Traverse PC by creating a duplicate of the tank replacement drawing. Manually draw in new septic tank using the Draw toolbar.