A wastewater utility company in rural PA is responsible for processing roughly 1 million gallons of wastewater per day through their extensive pipeline system. Pennsylvania residents need their wastewater cleaned and processed to live their normal lives, and the only way to meet this end is if the wastewater plant has reliable and accurate measurements at all stages of the process. But what happens when difficult software, hard to obtain parts, and poor sensor quality all hit at the same time?
During the wastewater treatment process, effluent water needs to be measured accurately to make sure parts of the treatment stages (filters, aeration basins, chemical treatments) have the right amount of water at all times. Inaccurate measurements could underload or overload the system, reducing energy efficiency, increasing operational costs, and decreasing overall plant safety.
Plant operators began to experience multiple problems with a competitor’s differential pressure device at this location. The previous pressure transmitter had software that was difficult to use, meaning only those trained in the software could interpret and troubleshoot the device. Since the wastewater treatment process is abrasive, parts on the previous sensor would wear out, and finding new parts to fix the old device was no walk in the park. With repeated issues, long lead times, complex software, and low quality sensors behind their operations, something had to change at this plant to turn things around.
When VEGA representatives heard this wastewater facilities’ concerns, it was something they’d heard before. Plant operators needed a sensor to work for them, not the other way around. We offered them an alternative approach with the VEGADIF 85, a sensor with easy setup, commissioning and troubleshooting capabilities, all accessible via Bluetooth connectivity.
With fast lead times and high quality parts, a new device was quickly installed using the VEGA Tools app. Technicians no longer had to be trained on sensor software, and they appreciated just how visible the yellow housing made the device stand out on the pipeline.
Going with the flow has never been easier at this wastewater treatment plant since the VEGADIF 85 was installed. Reliable and precise measurements allow operators to serve their communities effectively and safely, freeing up mental space for new initiatives and process improvements. With easy-to-use software, Bluetooth connectivity, simple troubleshooting, and VEGA’s support team available 24/7, plant operators have everything they need to continue normal operations without hiccups.
Wastewater plants need accurate measurements, quality sensors, and simple software solutions for smooth sailing. The VEGADIF 85 has made all the difference and continues to make a difference in the lives of the citizens who rely on this plant’s services, even if they don’t know about it.