Flow and Rainfall Monitoring – Available Technology and How to Effectively Operate and Maintain (Part 2)

 

The management of wastewater and sewage systems is crucial to ensure the public health and environmental protection. Sewer flow monitoring is a critical aspect of managing these systems as it enables operators to understand the hydraulic conditions and performance of the system. In recent years, technological advancements have made sewer flow monitoring more efficient and effective. In this blog post, we will discuss the available technology for sewer flow monitoring, including area-velocity meter technology, and best operations and maintenance practices, which include the calibration of equipment.

Technology for Sewer Flow Monitoring:

Ultrasonic Sensors:

Ultrasonic sensors are widely used in sewer flow monitoring due to their accuracy and reliability. These sensors work by emitting sound waves that bounce off the surface of the liquid and return to the sensor. The time taken for the sound waves to travel back to the sensor is used to determine the level of the liquid. Ultrasonic sensors can be used for both open channel and closed pipe systems.

Area-Velocity Meters:

Area-velocity meters are also used in sewer flow monitoring. These meters work by measuring the velocity of the fluid and the cross-sectional area of the pipe or channel. The product of the two is the flow rate of the fluid. Area-velocity meters are commonly used in open-channel systems, such as stormwater or combined sewer systems.

Radar:

A radar sensor measures the velocity of the water surface. Radar impulses are transmitted at an angle towards the water surface where ripples and waves induce a Doppler frequency shift that is detected by the sensor. A radar sensor also measures the distance between the sensor and the water surface by registering the travel time of an impulse sent towards the water surface. Flow is then calculated based on velocity and level data as well as the known characteristics of the pipe/channel.

Best Operations and Maintenance Practices:

Regular Maintenance:

Regular maintenance is essential for the proper functioning of the sewer system. Operators should perform regular checks and maintenance of all monitoring equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability. This includes cleaning sensors, checking wiring, and ensuring proper calibration.

Calibration of Equipment:

Calibration of equipment is another best practice for sewer flow monitoring. Operators should ensure that monitoring equipment is correctly calibrated to ensure accurate data collection. Calibration involves comparing the output of the monitoring equipment to a known standard and adjusting the equipment if necessary.

Accurate Data Collection:

Accurate data collection is crucial for effective sewer flow monitoring. Operators should ensure that monitoring equipment is correctly installed and calibrated to ensure accurate data collection. They should also check data for inconsistencies and errors and take corrective action where necessary.

Real-Time Monitoring:

Real-time monitoring of sewer flow enables operators to respond quickly to changes in the system. This includes identifying blockages and leaks, adjusting pump settings, and optimizing system performance. Real-time monitoring also enables operators to identify trends and patterns in the system, which can inform future maintenance and upgrades.

Data Analysis:

Data analysis is a critical aspect of sewer flow monitoring. Operators should analyze data regularly to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies in the system. This information can inform maintenance and upgrade decisions, resulting in more efficient and effective operation of the system.

Continuous Improvement:

Continuous improvement is essential for the long-term sustainability of the sewer system. Operators should regularly evaluate the performance of the system and identify areas for improvement. This includes upgrading equipment, improving data collection and analysis, and implementing best practices.

In conclusion, sewer flow monitoring is a critical aspect of managing wastewater and sewage systems. Technological advancements have made sewer flow monitoring more efficient and effective, enabling operators to optimize the performance of the system. Best operations and maintenance practices include regular maintenance, accurate data collection, real-time monitoring, data analysis, calibration of equipment, and continuous improvement. By implementing these best practices, operators can ensure the long-term sustainability of the sewer system, protect public health and the environment, and optimize system performance.

Learn more at: 

Flow and Rainfall Monitoring – Available Technology and How to Effectively Operate and Maintain It (Part 1)

Introduction to Collection System Flow and Rainfall Monitoring

Learn about the City of Toronto’s Sewer Infrastructure and Sewer Assessment Guidelines

5 Key Insights into the Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA) Regulations

Challenges of the New Subdivision Flow Monitoring to Assess Performance of Inflow and Infiltration (I/I) Prevention

An Overview of the New Subdivision Flow Monitoring to Assess Performance of Inflow and Infiltration (I/I) Prevention