SLOT 2.0, which is underpinned by BHR’s sludge rheology database, can calculate sludge flow properties and behaviors, frictional pipe pressure losses and system curves. The software can also identify the most effective pumps to use on a given system – selecting the optimal size, type, quantity and configuration, right down to the manufacturer.
Legislative changes and restrictions around sludge disposal to land has changed the nature of the sludge being processed by wastewater treatment plants – with sludges becoming thicker and the volumes growing at most sites. Novel sludge types are also emerging from new processes, such as thermal hydrolysis, and their rheological profile cannot be predicted using existing data. To meet these multiple challenges, SLOT 2.0 – short for System LOsses Tool – has been developed to help utilities know their sludge better.
Users can predict sludge rheology based on type, temperature and the proportion of dry solids. They can quickly compare results for different rheological properties and possible combinations of pipework, pumps and components; plotting system curves against pump curves to determine optimum pump-operating points.
The tool can be used to make calculations for newly designed and for existing systems that require upgrading. Investment decisions can be made based on analysis of whole-life costs and combined capital and operational expenditure, including carbon impact measurement.
Mick Dawson, consultancy director, BHR Group said, "Water companies are being challenged to optimize their existing facilities in the next asset management period, AMP7, which starts on April 1, 2020. Whether users are moving sludge within a treatment facility or between sites, SLOT 2.0 can help calculate how much energy is required, which pipes and pumps offer the greatest efficiency and whether a system has the capacity and resilience to manage changing sludge properties.”
Beta testing of the software has been undertaken by a combination of water utilities and contractors including NMCN, Sweco and DPS.
The official launch of SLOT 2.0 will take place at the WWT Wastewater Conference & Exhibition in Birmingham on January 28, 2020. Potential users of SLOT 2.0 can also join BHR Group at British Water’s headquarters in London on February 25, 2020 to try out the tool and learn more about its capability. Email slot2.0@bhrgroup.com to register interest.
Source/Further information: www.bhrgroup.com