Totex insight guide delivers information for water industry

One of the important drivers of this approach which the guide addresses, is the focus on technological innovation for better energy efficiency and through-life maintenance optimisation. Water utility companies can invest in innovative solutions using the latest technology and be confident that they will extend asset life, improve efficiency and cut down wastage in terms of leakage and energy consumption. 

By using smart technology such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and big data analytics, companies can have real-time data on all assets and processes to make sure that they are operating as efficiently as possible. It also enables staff to respond quickly to all unexpected events. Also, energy reduction can be accomplished through utilizing innovation like green technology and equipment.

Using IIoT to connect sensors and other devices to collect real-time data to provide transparency across installed devices also enables predictive maintenance, where IIoT and big data analytics are used to monitor the actual condition of the asset 24/7 to determine when servicing is needed.  In this way, the relevant staff are forewarned of impending failures and can then take action before the weakened parts lead to a breakdown.

After making it clear that technology is beneficial but not complicated, the guide moves on to complete the picture by demonstrating what enablesa successful implementation of the Totex model.  The guide argues that the most important enabler is having a reliable and established equipment manufacturer as partner at the design stage where their R&D capability and innovative solutions can help improve operational efficiency throughout the asset’s lifecycle.  Manufacturers of key equipment such as pumps and motors are required to act as partners, rather than just product suppliers.  Their roles have expanded to include recommendation during the design stage that can help utilities avoid system failures due to inadequate design. 

This seismic shift, the paper concludes, is a good progression as it allows all parties to consider wider issues than what they are traditionally used to and to take into account these issues when they are proposing designs and equipment solution.  As such, this is fostering a new era of collaboration across European water markets as utility providers, their main contractors and equipment makers establish closer integration through earlier engagement and consultation.