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Automation has the potential of opening a trove of new capabilities for wastewater management facilities.
FREMONT, CA: The influence of automation has been apparent across sectors. The utility sector has also s
tarted claiming the benefits of being early adopters of automation-backed solution. Wastewater management has got a major boost by automating crucial tasks. With automation, several processes can be handled with a high degree of efficiency. Besides, automation reduces dependence on manual tasks and drives accuracy. These features of automation transform the conventional processes in wastewater management into advanced ones. The benefits that automation brings about in wastewater management are discussed below.
Reducing Energy Consumption with Customization
Automation allows processes to be handled with respect to existing conditions. The need to run wastewater treatment facilities according to predetermined algorithms, can now be eliminated. Conventionally, every process is run periodically according to previously made schedules. This results in inefficiency as facilities have to be kept active even when they are not required. With automation, systems are able to respond to various factors and then run requisite processes, resulting in energy savings.
Making Sampling Better
Manual sampling processes have intrinsic limitations that can be eliminated by automating the process. When automation is introduced, samples can be obtained conveniently during any step of the treatment process with minimum hassles. This also results in accuracy in sampling data. Subsequently, remote monitoring systems can be developed, enabling online analysis of samples. Thus, all processes associated with sampling becomes time and cost-efficient.
Better Maintenance of Assets
Wastewater treatment and management facilities contain assets that come in contact with corrosive fluids. Automating treatment plant functions can help enhance maintenance capabilities and minimize corrosion of tanks and pipes. The dependence on chemicals and manual interventions reduce, and operational data is gathered through strategically placed devices. These factors contribute to longer lifecycles for critical and costly equipment.
The initial costs of setting up automated facilities should not be a deterrent for wastewater treatment plants. In the long run, the returns more than compensate for the initial investments.
