The Context
Water treatment plants operate continuously on pumps, blowers, filters and chemical dosing, with little tolerance for failures. The data already recorded by the plant is usually sufficient to show where energy and chemicals are wasted and which equipment is deteriorating.
Typical Challenges
- Unplanned failures of pumps, blowers and motors
- Gradual increase in energy and chemical consumption
- Filters and membranes replaced on fixed schedules rather than on condition
- Older assets of uncertain condition
What Can Be Done
Performance Evaluation
Pumps and treatment trains are compared with expected performance, and the difference is quantified.
Predictive Maintenance
Early signs of deterioration on pumps and motors are detected, so that cleaning and replacement follow the actual condition.
Production Optimization
Dosing, pumping and energy use are reviewed to identify losses and equipment that is no longer required.
Experience
Previous projects include lower chemical consumption through improved dosing control, longer filter life through optimized backwash scheduling, and a study on the use of water systems as energy storage.