More frequent capture of water supply and distribution data is becoming a must-have for utilities as they strive to build network resilience, improve customer experience and meet regulatory expectations. Adam Wright, associate product line manager for remote terminal units (RTUs) and loggers, Ovarro, shares insights into the latest developments.
What can today’s data tell utilities about their water network?
Adam Wright: Datalogging allows water companies to accurately and reliably record parameters for pressure, flow and level across the water network by interfacing with common industry flow meters and sensors to enable efficient network management.
Visibility of district metered areas (DMAs) combined with network models, pressure surveys, consumer flow monitoring and reservoir depth calculations all mean water companies are able to make informed decisions that will result in a reduction in cost of network ownership. With more data comes increased insights and ultimately increased value.
What are some of the data capture challenges faced by utilities?
Wright: Key challenges include the increasing pressure on data security, a growing need for more battery power to send more data for longer periods and communications reliability. These are always front of mind for Ovarro when developing and updating its dataloggers.
The good news is technology around sensors, communications and battery life is advancing rapidly. Ovarro’s dataloggers can now communicate with multiple different sensors from one device using the Internet of Things (IoT). They are programmed wirelessly using a Bluetooth app and data is sent securely to the cloud or the customer’s system.
The rollout of 4G and IoT networks has significantly improved communications. Ovarro has very recently updates the XiLog advanced datalogger following an intensive period of research and development. The latest version comes with 4G or NBIoT/CATM1 and Bluetooth as standard, with fifth generation 5G broadband connectivity in the future.
IoT has been a real gamechanger in reducing power consumption and allowing loggers to send more data frequently. Battery technology has also progressed, allowing Ovarro’s loggers to deliver as much as a 10-year battery life. This means fewer battery changes and site visits, which reduces environmental impact, while freeing up time and saving costs.
The full article is published on the latest edition of Water & Wastewater Asia Jul/Aug 2021 issue. To continue reading the article, click here.
