How do modern data logging systems improve the safety of water utilities?

Water utilities, like many industrial sectors, need to upgrade their data logging and monitoring systems to meet ever-increasing technological demands. One major challenge is the need to replace outdated GSM modems, which do not meet modern communications standards, with modern LTE modems. Deficiencies in network infrastructure and limited remote access to data have hampered effective management of water supply systems. Additionally, integration of older equipment with modern cloud-based platforms was problematic, inhibiting data centralization and real-time analysis.

Upgrading data logging systems is crucial, as it enables continuous monitoring of parameters such as water quality or infrastructure condition, allowing for quick response in case of problems. Remote access to data provides the ability to manage the system from anywhere, which is crucial for distributed water utilities. Cloud-based data archiving provides secure storage and quick access to historical information, which greatly enhances reporting and long-term analysis. This allows water utilities to more accurately plan maintenance work, forecast failures and meet regulatory requirements. Implementing cloud technologies not only means operational optimization, but also a higher level of security and stability of water supply systems.

How did a lack of cloud integration delay emergency response at water utilities? The customer's problem

Water utilities faced a number of problems prior to the modernization of their data recording system, which hampered the efficient management of processes. One of the biggest challenges was outdated GSM modems, which limited communication capabilities and remote access to data. The lack of a stable connection and low bandwidth caused delays in the transmission of information, making it difficult to respond immediately to any failures or changes in water quality.

In addition, the existing on-screen recorders at the plants, while still functional, were not designed to work with modern cloud solutions. This caused difficulties in integrating these devices with more advanced monitoring systems, such as JUMO Cloud software . The inability to centrally manage and monitor data meant that operators had to manually retrieve and analyze data, which was time-consuming and increased the risk of errors.

The client needed not only to upgrade the hardware, but also to upgrade the entire IT infrastructure. The goal was to provide stable, real-time remote access to data, and to integrate existing equipment with a cloud platform, which would allow more efficient management and archiving of data at water utilities.

How has the implementation of a modern cloud-based SCADA system improved data management at a water utility? Our solution

The implementation of JUMO Cloud brought a comprehensive solution to the problems faced by water utilities. A key element was the integration of existing screen recorders with the state-of-the-art control system JUMO variTRON, which enabled data transfer to the JUMO Cloud. This made remote access to data and its central management and visualization much simpler and more efficient.

Outdated GSM modems, which caused data delays and reliability problems, were replaced with modern LTE modems. This allowed for a stable Internet connection, even in locations where there was no permanent network access. The LTE modems provided fast and reliable data transfer, which enabled continuous access to up-to-date information on the status of the water system via web browsers.

In addition, the JUMO variTRON PLC, equipped with additional inputs, made it possible to connect new sensors and record more signals from different stages of the water supply process. The ability to expand the system and integrate sensors via protocols such as Modbus TCP/IP, as well as JUMO digiLine digital sensors to measure pH, conductivity and redox, among others, increased control over processes, enabling more accurate monitoring of parameters such as water quality or infrastructure performance.

With this solution, water utilities not only retained the full functionality of their existing equipment, but also significantly increased the capabilities of their monitoring system, ensuring they are flexible and ready for future upgrades.

How has upgrading the metering data recording system translated into long-term savings for water utilities? Customer benefits

The modernization of the data recording system has brought a number of concrete benefits to water utilities. First of all, access to key information has been significantly improved - thanks to integration with the JUMO Cloud, data is now available in real time from any location. This allows operators to make quick decisions and respond immediately in the event of failures or changes in water quality, increasing system safety and reliability.

Management efficiency has increased significantly due to process automation and central monitoring of all operational parameters. With the deployment of modern LTE modems to replace outdated GSM modems, data transmission has become more stable and reliable, reducing downtime and streamlining daily operations. The infrastructure upgrade also reduced operating costs, as it reduced the need for manual interventions and simplified reporting and data analysis.

The new system is characterized by a high degree of flexibility - JUMO variTRON allows the connection of additional sensors, giving the system the ability to expand and adapt to future needs. Full integration with JUMO Cloud allows more data to be monitored and archived without the need for local networks, further enhancing the system's independence and scalability.

As a result, water utilities have gained a modern data management tool that not only streamlines daily operations at facilities, but also ensures long-term savings and readiness for future technological challenges.

About the author

My name is Ewelina Szmit and I have been working in content marketing for several years, combining my professional skills with my passion for writing. I am convinced that even the most technical topics can be presented in an interesting and accessible way for everyone. Outside of work, I unleash my creativity by creating newspaper collages. I like to spend my free time being active, walking my dog or running.

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