siris2021, Author at Siris

EDM: Event Duration Monitoring 101

siris2021 on December 7, 2022

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Event Duration Monitoring 101

+ FREE downloadable EDM infographic!

Event Duration Monitoring (EDM) continues to be a hot topic in the water industry. In this article we’re diving in to the nitty gritty of EDM and explaining what it means for the water industry.

Find out:

What is EDM?
Why is everyone talking about it?
What WINEP is
What EDM means for FFT and MCERTS
How we can help
Plus download our free EDM infographic.

What is Event Duration Monitoring (EDM)?

In order to explain EDM, we first need to understand how water treatment works operate. Combined sewers carry wastewater from homes and businesses, however they also collect rainwater which falls onto areas like streets and roofs.

In normal conditions this water travels to a wastewater treatment works to be treated before it is discharged back to rivers and streams.

However, during a weather event (i.e. a storm or extremely heavy rainfall), water companies are permitted to use storm overflows, which are designed to store wastewater until the treatment works has capacity to treat it, or discharge the diluted wastewater back to the water course, known as a “spill”. This is essential, as otherwise untreated water would back up through the sewage system and flood homes and businesses.

EDM measures the frequency and duration of spills from these storm overflows. This is important because the Environment Agency needs to closely monitor the amount of untreated wastewater that is entering rivers and streams and ensure water companies are keeping within their FFT limits.

Why is everyone talking about EDM?

In many areas the UK’s sewer system is no longer fit for purpose. In many cases sewage treatment works simply weren’t built to treat the volume of flow they now need to accept. This is a result of population increases as well as changes to weather patterns caused by climate change.

In practice, this has resulted in many sewage treatment works relying on storm overflows on a regular basis, instead of just during the storm events they were designed for. If a storm overflow is already full and a period of heavy rainfall occurs, it will not be able to cope with the additional flow and will discharge a higher volume of wastewater to the environment than it would have done if the overflow had been empty to start with.

If this goes unchecked, the UK’s rivers and streams will continue to be polluted with untreated sewage and could have serious consequences for our environment. In recent years the Environment Agency has taken steps to mitigate these risks and force water companies to monitor their use of storm overflows and invest in their infrastructure in order to meet their environmental obligations.

WINEP

The Water Industry National Environment Programme (WINEP) is a programme of actions water companies are required to take to meet their statutory environmental obligations, non-statutory environmental requirements, or delivery against their statutory functions. In short, it’s the steps they need to take to help improve our environment.

The Government has challenged the UK’s water companies to create an industry that:

“provides resilient, safe, and affordable water supply and wastewater service for today’s users and future generations
provides a thriving natural environment with increased environmental value, clean rivers and a sustainable eco-system
consumers trust and delivers an excellent day to day service, support for vulnerable consumers and acts in the long-term interests of society and the environment”

The Environment Agency, Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and Water Services Regulation Authority (OFWAT) have jointly developed an overarching process for delivering this programme in England.

WINEP aligns with OFWAT’s findings from PR19, its five-year price review and service package. Under PR19 water companies are required to begin monitoring FFT and storm events in order to achieve MCERTS compliance.

These are mentioned under two main drivers:

U_MON3
Install EDM on WwTW overflows to storm management systems at WwTW and at last in line overflows at sewage pumping stations.
U_MON4
Install MCERTS flow monitoring as close to the overflow as practicable to record FFT at WwTW where the existing DWF MCERTS flow monitoring, or other installed flow monitoring, cannot be readily used to confirm the permitted FFT setting is being complied with when the overflow to the storm management system operates.

What does EDM have to do with FFT?

Flow to full treatment (FFT) is the maximum flow a sewage treatment works can treat. It is calculated by multiplying the dry weather flow (DWF) by three. FFT is important when carrying out EDM because it allows us to cross reference the two numbers for more accurate results.

What does EDM mean for MCERTS?

Under U_MON4, it will be a requirement for MCERTS flow monitoring to be installed to record FFT. We need to incorporate EDM to record this accurately.

Data from EDM is used in conjunction with flow data to identify whether the works is meeting its permit conditions for FFT, so it is important that the EDM data is sufficiently robust to support this assessment.

Infographic

Learn how EDM works

Download our free infographic to understand how Event Duration Monitoring works.

Download

How can SIRIS help?

As with any flow measurement device, EDM needs to be set up and calibrated by a qualified MCERTS inspector to ensure it doesn’t trigger too early or not at all.

For support with installing an FFT or EDM system on your site, please contact our expert installations project team who will be able to offer you advice and support on choosing the right system.

Which wastewater analysing equipment is right for me?

siris2021 on November 9, 2022

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Which wastewater analysing equipment is right for me?

Our guide to wastewater analytics.

The majority of businesses producing wastewater are required to carry out wastewater sampling to comply with their consent to discharge permit requirements. In most cases, an automatic effluent sampler is the most suitable option for accurately and reliably meeting sampling requirements. However, for some businesses additional analytical equipment can be helpful.

In this guide we’ll explain:

The main types of wastewater analysing equipment
How to choose the right equipment for your business

Wastewater samplers

Wastewater samplers are designed to automatically collect samples of wastewater and trade effluent via a hose at regular pre-programmed intervals. A thermoplastic unit keeps the samples at the optimum temperature. This is important as effluent contains Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), which must be kept cold in order to be effectively measured. Automatic samplers are connected to a site’s wider flow measurement system and can function either independently or as part of an existing PLC/SCADA system.

There are two types of wastewater sampler – vacuum and in-line (guillotine). The version you need will depend on whether you have an open channel or closed pipe application.

Find out more about SIRIS wastewater samplers.

Photometers & spectrophotometers

Businesses with larger sites or that require more detailed information on their wastewater status may benefit from additional analytical equipment.

Hand-held photometers and spectrophotometers offer a convenient way of conducting instant wastewater sampling analysis. They offer a range of testing options and pre-programmed tests, giving an immediate picture of wastewater analyte levels and understand how well you are meeting parameters within your consent to discharge. Results are instant which means you can check vital information on compliance and potential trade effluent costs without waiting for lab results.

This can be beneficial because factors such as products changes, new on-site processes and seasonal temperature variations can all have an impact on the quality and analyte levels within trade effluent. Having a portable device on-site is a quick and simple way to check analyte levels without the need for specialist laboratory equipment.

Find out more about our photometers and spectrophotomers.

In-line monitors

In-line monitors are a good option for businesses that need to track specific analytes such as pH and turbidity in their wastewater, and provide a more affordable option than a photometer or spectrophotometer.

Depending on the nature of the business, you may be required to test the following physical properties by MCERTS:

Temperature
pH
Salinity
Turbidity
Colour/odour

At SIRIS, we supply the Partech 7300w² Monitor, which is a great option for monitoring a range of values, comfortably accommodating up to eight sensors, with additional sensors a possibility depending on site capacity.

The 7300w² Monitor can be paired with sensors monitoring pH, temperature and turbidity, so it’s possible to pick and choose as required.

Find out more about in-line monitors.

Partech partner

Our status as a Partech sales and service partner allows us to offer a range of analytical measurement devices, enhancing our service offering and giving our customers additional wastewater monitoring options. We can supply, install and maintain a range of Partech products and offer ongoing support to our customers.

Wastewater analysis data monitoring

In addition to on-site sampling and analytical equipment, many of our customers also opt to add on a Cloud-based data monitoring to their wastewater analysis package. Having the ability to track your site’s effluent discharge provides peace of mind and confidence that you are staying within your limits – as well as allowing you to see if you are paying too much.

Our data monitoring system uses a data visualisation suite paired with a specialist remote telemetry unit (RTU) to provide businesses with 24/7 access to their data, from anywhere with an internet connection.

Find out more about our data monitoring solutions.

How can you make sure you choose the right wastewater analysing equipment?

Wastewater analysis is a highly complex and confusing area, and it can be difficult to navigate the various options available. It’s essential you consult experts to ensure the system you choose is fit for purpose and cost-effective. Choosing the wrong products can be a costly mistake and there are a number of factors which can push the price up further, including poor installation practice and a lack of expertise from your supplier.

Ultimately, a correctly installed system supported by a team of experts is the only way to be sure you are getting a cost-effective and reliable system.

In addition to our range of MCERTS-approved wastewater samplers and analytical measurement tools, at SIRIS we offer comprehensive support and guidance to help you choose the best option for your site.

Trainee Service & Calibration Engineer

siris2021 on November 2, 2022

£20,374 - £24,000

We are looking for an enthusiastic Trainee Service & Calibration engineer to join the SIRIS family.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone looking to start their career in the water industry – with plenty of training and support on offer to help the right candidate develop long-term career progression with SIRIS.

About us:

Siris Environmental is a Washington-based company providing our industrial and water utility customers with the best possible effluent flow monitoring solutions.

We work with private organisations and water companies across the UK, ranging from small trade effluent customers to large-scale factories and water companies, and have built a reputation for providing high quality service, delivered by a passionate team.

Now has never been a more exciting time to join us. We are growing rapidly and have plenty of exciting opportunities for the right person to join our team. If you are energetic, hands-on, innovative, and professional, this is the environment for you.

What will you be doing?

As a trainee you will work closely with the service team and inspection teams both at our Sunderland HQ and also at customer sites across the UK.

The candidate will likely require to stay away a couple of nights every few weeks, with all hotel and travel expenses paid for by SIRIS. The role involves calibration of flow meters and service and testing of equipment in the field such as pH, temperature and water samplers. The candidate will work closely with an experienced service engineer for the first 6-12 months and will also be required to support the inspection teams on various sewage treatment works across the UK.

The role also involves support with equipment sales and projects, this can be as straightforward as packaging up equipment and delivering to site or helping order in parts and ensure enough stock is available.

Requirements

A background in wastewater isn’t essential as we will provide full training to the right person, however we are looking for the following:

Good organisational skills as the candidate will be expected to quickly begin organising inspection and service visits via calendar planning
A high level of customer service skills
A willingness to learn
Proactive attitude

Benefits

Competitive salary
Family-run business feel with big business opportunities
Flexible working
Ongoing training and development
Prospects for career advancements

Apply now

MCERTS flow measurement: Why it’s essential to consult the experts

siris2021 on September 7, 2022

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MCERTS flow measurement

Why it’s essential to consult the experts

We often get calls from customers requesting quotes for part of a flow system – and they’re often surprised when we explain that it isn’t as simple as just selling them a flow meter.

In this article we explain why installing any MCERTS flow measurement system requires a holistic approach, and the importance of consulting the experts to ensure your system is not only cost-effective but fit for purpose.

“Why do I need to look at the whole system? I just need a flow meter.”

It’s something we hear often. A customer already has a legacy system in place and just wants to replace a small part of it. The problem is, it’s not always that easy.

Over the years our servicing and installation engineers have seen hundreds (if not thousands!) of flow measurement systems, and a surprising number of them simply aren’t fit for purpose – and likely never have been.

While we could just sell you the component you ask for, there’s no guarantee that it will be suitable for your existing system – and more importantly, no guarantee it will pass an MCERTS inspection. Ultimately, making the wrong choices can end up being a very costly mistake for your business.

How MCERTS flow measurement experts can help

We ask the right questions

There are several key questions we need to consider when installing part, or all, of an MCERTS flow measurement system:

Is the component suitable for the existing system? Understanding the type of flow measurement system is essential to choosing the right components. For example, a state-of-the-art electromagnetic flowmeter might sound like the best choice, but it’s not going to be very useful fitted in to an open channel drain or close to an aeration treatment plant and thus effected by entrained air.
Can the system be calibrated and future-proofed? If the existing system has been incorrectly installed from the start, new part isn’t going to solve the problem and we can’t effectively validate the system.
What is the nature of the discharge? We often get asked for a specific type of flow measurement, for example a V notch weir. However that isn’t a very effective method if the discharge contains significant solid content and can blind the V.
How has the flow measurement system been maintained? Poorly maintained equipment is one of the most common issues we encounter when visiting sites and is a leading cause of incorrect readings.
Is the flow measurement system suitable for your site? There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to flow measurement. It’s essential to get a thorough understanding of the site the system is for to ensure it is fit for purpose. Factors such as available space, flow volumes and permit conditions are all important considerations.

We make sure your system is correctly calibrated

Regular flow meter calibration is essential for ensuring your device continues to provide accurate results. Not carrying out this vital process can result in your flow meter recording incorrect data and could result in a failed MCERTS inspection, or incorrect charging from your water utility provider.

When we install a new flow measurement system we always ensure it has been correctly calibrated. We also ensure that any flow measurement system we install has been designed to allow for future in-the-field calibration.

We guarantee MCERTS compliance

Choosing an MCERTS-accredited product doesn’t mean the flow system will automatically pass an MCERTS inspection.

We guarantee that any system we design, install, and maintain will be fully MCERTS-compliant – giving you the peace of mind that your system is providing accurate, cost-effective results and ensuring ongoing compliance with Environment Agency regulations.

We ensure the right data monitoring is in place

Data monitoring allows you to gather crucial flow meter data and ensure you are satisfying regulatory compliance for your water authority, as well as environment agencies in both England and Scotland.

Our cloud-based system offers a robust and reliable ‘plug-in and play’ option for wastewater flow monitoring using a specialist remote telemetry unit (RTU) and data visualisation suite, Palette.

Our bespoke Palette system allows you to monitor your effluent discharge from anywhere, at any time. Our cloud-based software gives you 24/7 access to your data, giving you the ability to get the information you need, whenever you need it.

Find out more about our data monitoring solutions.

WE CAN HELP

For any queries or assistance with your flow measurement system, please contact our expert installations project team who will be able to offer you advice and support on choosing the right system for your site.

Sitrans Mag 6000 Manual (FM MAG 5000/6000) Operating Instructions

siris2021 on June 28, 2022

Download the Sitrans MAG 6000 manual.

Meet our Experts: Alistair Renwick

siris2021 on June 28, 2022

In this month’s Meet the Experts, we’re hearing from trainee MCERTS inspector Alistair Renwick.

PROJECTS CO-ORDINATOR

siris2021 on May 5, 2022

£25,000 to £32,000 depending on experience

We are looking for an enthusiastic Projects Co-ordinator to join the SIRIS family.

Are you well organised, great at self-management and able to manage multiple projects with conflicting priorities?

Do you have an appetite to learn about new equipment and technologies?

If the answer to the questions above is YES, then we want to hear from you!

About us:

Siris Environmental is a Washington-based company providing our industrial and water utility customers with the best possible effluent flow monitoring solutions.