Kilometres of pipes used to be the only thing connecting multiple control valves, pumping stations and processing facilities. This poses a big challenge when operators need to harmonise system pressure to avoid leakage, and make sure each station is working as energy efficiently as possible. Rising energy prices and the increasing cost of maintenance work constantly force water and waste water companies to find new solutions that do not drain financial, personnel and material resources. An operator must be able to see an asset whether that is a pump system, a distribution network, or an entire processing facility to benchmark performance and then start to make measurable improvements.
Scalable water management systems
Achieving effective control over water supply and distribution networks can be achieved by making use of a data-based approach: Mitsubishi Electric will be illustrating this with its main exhibit Aquatoria®, a software solution that can optimize the energy usage of a complete water distribution network. The network can then be visualised, allowing every asset to be precisely monitored and controlled. By making use of software functions based on artificial intelligence, multiple assets can be optimised and managed simultaneously, which eliminates the instance of leakage due to pressure fluctuations. Maintenance callouts and costs are reduced by lowering the stress on assets and protects them from damage.
Many applications may require a process management system with comprehensive visualisation capabilities. The PMSX®pro Decentralised Control System (DCS) enables control via Mitsubishi Electric PLC platforms and combines this with equally advanced visualisation capabilities. This is ideal for upgrading control systems, for example at water management and treatment facilities. New options such as topological line colouring (TLC) allow users to create system plan diagrams with dynamic on-screen functions which are easy to understand and convey visual information quickly. Operators have precise control with a clear process overview. This provides live status for fast maintenance and management decisions, increased plant up-time and more efficient operations.
