“In the past, the control component would typically be based on trend data instead of actual, real-time measurements. That requires a fair amount of educated guesses as to what was actually happening in the basins and throughout the plant. The IQSN changes all that.” The Results Tucker and his team can now set the required parameter levels at the various locations throughout the facility. Tying that data back into SCADA, the system can turn mixing equipment on or off, open and close control valves, and increase or decrease return rates on the fly, responding in real time to what is happening in the process. Most of the sensors are self-cleaning, so very little maintenance is necessary. Being able to fine-tune the entire process, from influent through the final discharge into Spring Creek, means significant cost savings, mostly in energy reduction. Blowers and motors run only when needed, at specific levels and speeds. Mixing equipment can mostly shut down overnight, when nutrient levels are down and flows are lowest. As the sensors monitor DO at the cascade post-aeration basin, the SCADA system can increase or decrease blower power. Optimized use of the blowers further enhances efficiency. Being able to monitor the parameters necessary to meet the new EPA regulations was one thing, but being able to tie the data back in to the SCADA for ultimate plant control was something entirely different - and something that would bring the renovated plant into an entirely new high-tech era of efficiency, effectiveness, and automation.
Aerial view of the Spring Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant
PHOTO: Courtesy of Terry Farmer Photography
Biological Nutrient Removal Facility Process Layout
Recycle
Anoxic Zone
Anoxic Zone
Anaerobic Zone
Aerobic Zone
Secondary Clarifier
Return Activated Sludge
Recycle
WAS
8
IQ SensorNet
YSI.com/ww
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