Access data remotely

Real-time access to critical system information throughout the facility is vital to improving productivity. As more devices are connected using EtherNet^TM, and managed via SCADA, it’s possible to save significant time and minimize cost. As an example, condition monitoring can send data from devices like drives, motors and flowmeters to quickly alert operators of potential trouble spots avoid unnecessary travel to remote pumping stations.

In water and wastewater utilities, monitoring equipment, such as instrumentation or pumps, is crucial as it provides reliable operation, reduces costs, and protects the environment. Today, this monitoring is done with a combination of manual and automated methods. The rapid acceptance of smart devices and cloud-based Internet sharing is presenting further optimization opportunities for water networks.

The ability to easily collect and transmit large amounts of data means drives, motors, and flow meters are playing a greater role in condition monitoring. They are now valuable components for analyzing, maintaining, and optimizing water assets and operations to save money, increase productivity, and avoid costly unplanned shutdowns.

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Remote monitoring puts eyes on the process

Today, VFDs are used to control the processes in a facility. Smart VFDs, like the ACQ580, which includes integrated application-specific features, leverage ABB’s remote monitoring to provide insight into the processes and operating equipment.

Using SCADA, or through the advanced ABB Ability™ cloud, data can be accessed remotely. This allows users to configure the drive, monitor log data, and follow load levels, run time, energy use, bearing temperatures, and I/O.

From remote locations, it’s as if you’re sitting right next to the equipment. Remote monitoring, which includes timestamps, alerts the operator that a particular condition has occurred, which enables him to make an informed decision as to whether maintenance needs to be dispatched immediately or it can wait for normal business hours.

Motors are becoming smart devices, too

With ABB's new Ability™ Smart Sensor solution for motors, which is simply attached to the frame of low-voltage induction motors, critical condition monitoring data can be sent over EtherNet™. The smart sensor picks up data on vibrations, temperatures, and other parameters. In some cases we’ve seen motor downtime reduced by up to 70%, lifetimes extended by 30%, and energy use cut by 10%. Using built-in algorithms based on decades of motor experience the sensor relays information about the motor’s health. Motors, quite simply, are becoming smarter.

Who you choose matters.

It's all about flow

Flow is what you’re trying to achieve in almost any water or wastewater treatment operation. The AquaMaster electromagnetic flowmeter is designed to accurately and precisely measure your flow at peak load levels as well as in low flow conditions. This can help your facility manage compliance for highly accurate flow measurements.

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ABB zenon - combining data in one common access point

The new ABB zenon IoT software software is an open-design, object-oriented automation application to extend communications, connectivity and control possibilities on water systems. It easily and efficiently integrates automation devices like drives, motors, PLCs and Human-Machine-Interface panels. This means large amounts of data and information can be combined using a common interface giving utility operators and suppliers new insight to raise productivity, save energy, increase availability, and optimize water systems.

Access via PLC

PLCs are important information gateways for data coming from the system. The ACQ580 can connect easily to any PLC via EtherNet and other networks.

Cyber security, too, is an issue which must be considered. All our products comply with ABB’s high security standards providing facilities the security and peace of mind they seek.

Interconnectivity. Big data. Internet of Things.

As these concepts become reality in water and wastewater processes, facilities can now improve productivity using remote data access methods. Companies that take the lead in analyzing this data to reduce costs and increase productivity, will be able to leverage this competitive advantage to become the innovators of the future.