This paper discusses how, through the integration of the data available in
multiple information systems and technologies, EPCOR Water Services, Incorporated
(EWSI) optimized the flushing frequency of their Unidirectional Flushing (UDF)
Maintenance Program and effectively reduced their annual UDF costs by 25%.
Five systems are integrated to develop an optimal unidirectional flushing program: unidirectional flushing (UDF) application;
water maintenance management (WaMM) system;
hydraulic model; Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); and,
Geographical Information System (GIS).
The UDF Application and GIS are evident systems involved in the UDF Maintenance
Program. Together they generate the bridge between the field and the office through data
forms and maps. Each year the run designs are illustrated and the flushing results are
recorded through these documents. The UDF Application and GIS are also essential for
the design of the UDF runs. As well, the hydraulic model of the distribution system can
be applied to confirm water flows and velocities to ensure an overall effective and
efficient design. WaMM contains information significant for the actual practice of
flushing. It supports the UDF Maintenance Program through ensuring the operability of
the valves and hydrants or at least identifying any out-of-service assets that may require
runs to be redesigned. LIMS is a valuable tool to monitor the effectiveness of UDF. The
water quality records for both sampling specific to the flushing and sampling based on
customer complaints provide direction to problematic areas of the distribution system.
Each system has an independent part to play in the design of unidirectional flushing runs;
together the systems can be used to optimize the UDF Program.
In 2002, EPCOR Water Services Incorporated took a step back and questioned their
existing Unidirectional Flushing Maintenance Program. Through efficient flushing, large
cost savings can be realized through reduced manpower, energy consumption, and water
consumption. A four-month UDF Frequency Optimization Study was conducted that
compiled seven years of UDF data and combined the applicable information technology.
The optimization study was a success because the information organization enabled an
informed and confident decision. The decision to extend flushing frequencies up to four
years resulted from an invested $8,000 study; study recommendations resulted in savings
of approximately $150,000 Canadian dollars for the 2002 flushing season. Includes tables, figures.
| Edition : | Vol. - No. |
| File Size : | 1
file
, 1.4 MB |
| Note : | This product is unavailable in Ukraine, Russia, Belarus |
| Number of Pages : | 14 |
| Published : | 04/27/2003 |
