Though the field of water loss management is ever-growing and refining, a validated water audit to disaggregate volumes and values of all loss components remains the essential first step to reduce water loss in a way that is economically sustainable, both for your utility and your ratepayers. With extreme weather events, conservation rate structures, and regional population shifts changing the face of business as usual, it’s time to get with the program.
For the second straight year, the Water Environment Federation Exhibition and Conference (WEFTEC) came to McCormick Place in Chicago, returning also to the city which launched WEFTEC 90 years ago. As always, it was a showcase of the latest technologies and ideas available in the water/wastewater industry, but each show also has its own "feel" that reflects the times.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) can be a critical tool for water utilities as they look to improve efficiency. But AMI projects often run into obstacles set by the public at large. A new study looks at ways that utilities can get their ratepayers on board with AMI.
Maintaining the water distribution system is critical to ensure customers receive the best water quality. An important maintenance task is to ensure water movement through the system. Dead-end mains, typically in cul-de-sacs, at the end of rural streets, or even in a looped line, are known problem areas for water stagnation, resulting in quality complaints. Residential neighborhoods under construction and large underpopulated developments often have slow-moving or stagnant drinking water.
High up in the Tehachapi Mountains of California’s Central Valley lies the largest consumer of the state’s electricity, driving 14 centrifugal pumps, each rated at 80,000 hp.
The bigger water utilities have the resources, but small utilities face many of the same problems — namely failing pipeline infrastructure and water loss. So what are the solutions and best practices within small utilities’ grasp? One small utility shared its successful approach to controlling water loss as guidance for those with similar struggles.
With lead contamination still a paramount concern for consumers around the country, many water utilities need to improve their buried infrastructure sooner rather than later. For those that cannot embark on ambitious replacement projects, a new report on coating and lining technologies for lead service lines might be the guide forward.
Advancements in submetering and cloud-based data analytics help reduce consumption, lower costs, and improve operational efficiency.
New research into the chemical byproducts that result from cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) repair indicates that the practice may not be safe for installers or nearby residents. Is your operation at risk?
The utility of the future will become an integral part of “smart cities.” These forward-thinking cities and utilities will have a complete sense of operations and millions of points of data streaming in at all times, allowing them to operate more efficiently and effectively. One component of the advanced water utility is already in the hands of many: smart meters.
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