Flow Measurement as the Basis for Network Optimization
Six-figure cost savings thanks to backflushing analysis in the drinking water network
How can a drinking water distribution system be made more economical and efficient? A long-term flow analysis made it possible to precisely assess peak consumption, flushing behavior, and pipe dimensions. The measurement data obtained provided the basis for optimized network planning, reduced water losses, and enabled significant cost savings—while also improving the flushing of the pipeline system.
Measurement Task and Requirements
The city of Wädenswil (Switzerland) was looking for a solution to conduct long-term measurements in order to determine the correct sizing of its pipeline network. Peak consumption periods were of particular interest, as it was hoped that reducing the pipe cross-section would result in more thorough flushing of the pipes. In addition, the modernization was intended to eliminate water losses of about one liter per second. The findings were intended to assist in the planning of a new water distribution network by helping to optimally determine pipe dimensions. Water utilities often supply large areas with drinking water through extensively branched pipeline networks. However, suitable measurement points are often located in remote areas, are difficult to access, and are rarely equipped with power 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 finally found what it was looking for at Katronic through its Swiss distribution partner, Rolf Muri AG. With its rugged 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 rechargeable batteries built into the device ensured that measurements could be taken for several weeks even without an external power supply.
Measurement Procedure and Results
After a measurement point had been excavated, the Swiss partner commissioned the measuring device. To enable quick and easy retrieval of the measured values at the office via the device interfaces, the Tetraedre system—provided by Rolf Muri AG—was used for remote data transmission.
The recorded data confirmed that even in pipes with smaller nominal diameters than the previously standard 400 mm, the maximum consumption peaks were not exceeded. In addition, the percentage of successful flushing operations in the pipeline system was significantly increased from 26% to 86%, which in turn reduced water consumption.
The installation of smaller pipes into the existing pipeline network resulted in massive savings for the customer in the six-figure range. Additionally, costly earthwork was avoided.
Photo credit: Rolf Muri AG