Digital Pressure Monitor enables ‘smart’ diffuser operation 

As wastewater plants become increasingly high-tech, components of the treatment process are seeing “smart” upgrades.  Xylem recently introduced its Sanitaire Digital Pressure Monitor that effectively transforms wastewater diffusers into smart diffusers. The Sanitaire DPM maximizes diffuser operation and increases energy savings through strategic fine-bubble aeration system monitoring and intelligence, providing an enhanced digital interface with diffuser health data, engineering and economic calculations, and asset management recommendations.

Aeration is typically a large single line item in a wastewater plant’s operations budget. With utilities constantly seeking ways to reduce operating costs while maintaining treatment compliance, the DPM empowers utilities with a digital solution that intelligently monitors and manages their aeration systems.

“Energy cost savings and extended system life cycle continue to be paramount for water utilities to find both operational and financial efficiencies,” says Adam McNeill, director of sales – treatment for Xylem. “The launch of the DPM reflects our commitment to evolving our water and wastewater treatment portfolio. It goes beyond improved technology to include product intelligence that delivers more value to the user.”

The DPM monitors pressure in the aeration system and provides asset recommendations via a user-friendly human-machine interface. The continuous measurement of aeration pressure empowers the plant manager to make data-driven decisions to clean or replace the diffusers, enabling utilities to achieve the most cost-effective solution. The DPM also enables utilities to extend the useful life of system blowers by optimizing diffuser performance.

It has the versatility to track pressure readings from multiple grids with a single controller and HMI to enable real-time decisions. The system alerts users when their aeration system requires maintenance and then automatically calculates the operational savings for diffuser maintenance or the payback period for diffuser replacement. Operating as more than a monitoring system, the DPM provides valuable engineering and economic insight at the operator’s fingertips.

Based on recommendations, Xylem provides complete cleaning services for a holistic solution. Periodic and strategic diffuser cleaning increases oxygen transfer efficiency and reduces operating costs. When diffuser replacement is deemed economical, Xylem offers a full portfolio of Sanitaire diffuser options. The DPM controller and HMI are based on the existing Xylem IQ SensorNet platform installed in thousands of plants. Multiple installation options are available, and DPM can be installed into new or existing aeration tanks. 855-995-4261; www.xylem.com/treatment