Flow measurement as the basis for network optimisation
Six-figure cost savings thanks to flushing analyses in the drinking water network
How can a drinking water network be made more cost-effective and efficient? A long-term flow analysis enabled peak consumption, flushing behaviour and pipe dimensions to be assessed with precision. The measurement data obtained provided the basis for optimised network planning, reduced water losses and enabled significant cost savings – whilst at the same time improving the flushing of the pipework system.
Measurement tasks and requirements
The town of Wädenswil (Switzerland) was looking for a solution to carry out a long-term measurement exercise, with a view to determining the correct sizing of the pipework network. Of particular interest were the peak consumption periods, as it was hoped that reducing the pipe cross-section would result in more thorough flushing of the pipes. Furthermore, the modernisation was intended to eliminate water losses of around one litre per second. The findings were intended to assist in the planning of a new water network by enabling pipe dimensions to be optimally calculated. Companies in the water sector frequently supply large areas with drinking water via extensive pipe networks. However, suitable measurement points are often located in remote areas, are difficult to access and are rarely equipped with power supply lines.
Project specifications at a glance
- Industry: Water and wastewater
- Installation type: Portable
- Medium: Drinking water
- Pipe material: Cast iron
- Pipe diameter: 400 mm
- Special feature: Long-term measurement
Technical solution
In such cases, a portable flow meter is ideal, as it is both resistant to environmental influences and has its own power supply. In its search for a solution, the city eventually found what it was looking for at Katronic, via its Swiss distribution partner, Rolf Muri AG. With its robust housing meeting IP67 protection standards, the KATflow 210 portable ultrasonic flow meter was suitable for permanent outdoor installation on site, regardless of weather conditions. The long-life batteries built into the device ensured that measurements could be taken over several weeks even without an external power supply.
Methodology and results
Once a measuring point had been excavated, the Swiss partner commissioned the measuring device. To enable the measured values to be read out quickly and easily in the office via the device interfaces, the Tetraedre system, provided by Rolf Muri AG, was used for remote data transmission.
The recorded values confirmed that even in pipes with smaller nominal diameters than the previously standard pipe diameter of 400 mm, the maximum consumption peaks were not exceeded. Furthermore, the proportion of successful flushing operations in the pipework system was significantly increased from 26% to 86%, which in turn reduced water consumption.
The installation of smaller pipes into the existing network has resulted in massive savings for the customer, running into six figures. Furthermore, costly earthworks were avoided.
Photo credit: Rolf Muri AG