How to do water level monitoring better

Date: 08/02/21 | In: Blog, Level monitoring

Water level monitoring for Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) and Event Duration Monitoring (EDM) has been around in the UK for decades. But the technology hasn’t changed much, and there are many limitations. At Detectronic, we’ve been working to make water level monitoring better for water companies, their customers, and the environment. Here’s how.

The Challenges of Sewer Monitoring

External flooding in large sewers is a common problem. The sewer system faces challenges from weather events and issues like wet wipes and fatbergs. Predicting problems before they happen is crucial, and that requires reliable, accurate data.

Issues with Old Technology

Traditional ultrasonic monitors often produce ‘noisy’ data, which makes it hard to get accurate readings. Imagine trying to talk to a friend across a busy road with lots of traffic noise. You can’t hear each other well. This is similar to the problems faced with old water level monitors.

Why Ultrasonic Monitors Have Problems

  1. Limited Range: These sensors are placed high above the water, far from the target.
  2. Blanking Distance: They stop working when wastewater gets too close.
  3. Beam Spread: The wide spread of the sensor’s sound waves can bounce off the sides, causing errors.
  4. Wind Speed: Changes in wind can affect the sound waves.
  5. Surface Foaming and FOGs: Foam and grease can absorb sound, distorting the data.
  6. Temperature Changes: Temperature variations can affect accuracy.

Getting Closer for Better Data

We’ve learned that placing the sensor closer to the water target reduces errors and improves accuracy. We tested different sensors, including hydrostatic pressure sensors, to see how well they worked.

Hydrostatic vs. Ultrasonic Sensors

Hydrostatic sensors are very accurate but only react when the water reaches them. Ultrasonic sensors are proactive, always monitoring without needing direct contact. Despite some issues, ultrasonic sensors work well when used correctly.

The LIDoTT® Solution: Combining Technologies

We combined the best features of ultrasonic and hydrostatic sensors to create the LIDoTT® sensor. Here’s why it’s better:

  • Dual Technology: Uses both ultrasonic and pressure sensors for better monitoring.
  • Close Proximity: Placing sensors closer to the target improves accuracy.
  • Noise Reduction: Provides clearer data with less noise.
  • No Dead-Band: Delivers continuous, reliable data even at close range.

Benefits of the LIDoTT® Sensor

The LIDoTT® sensor provides accurate results over a wide range, ensuring reliable water level monitoring in any sewer. By using both ultrasonic and pressure data, it offers a more precise monitoring system.

Why Our Monitoring is Better

Our innovative LIDoTT® sensor ensures more accurate and reliable data, helping water companies predict and manage sewer issues effectively.

For more information about the LIDoTT® range, contact us at sales@detectronic.org or call +44 01282 449 124. Learn how our advanced water level monitoring solutions can benefit your operations and ensure compliance with the latest standards.