Contract 68-03-2053, Program element 1BB-392, ROAP 21AZU-/Task21. "EPA-660/2-75-023" "June 1975.". Includes bibliographical references.

The report gives a methodology for evaluating the engineering and cost implications of constructing or modifying once-through cooling water discharge systems of thermal-electric generating plants within the contiguous U.S. The procedures give (to persons not skilled in cost engineering) a means of preparing preliminary cost estimates from conceptual or design drawings. The user should, however, have a technical background and be familiar with once-through cooling water discharge systems. Principal construction elements of discharge system construction and modification are identified and grouped into categories. Materials and installation methods are discussed for each construction element. Data is given on labor, materials, equipment, and productivity assumed in unit cost development. A step-by-step procedure is given for: (1) estimating construction costs, and (2) resolving construction costs into project and annual costs. An example is shown using the methodology; the result is compared with actual construction costs for modifications to an existing discharge system.