In Hollister, CA, Veolia North America (VNA) has operated and maintained the city’s wastewater treatment plant for more than a decade. Concerned that pandemic restrictions would keep the company’s experts from evaluating the plant’s equipment in person, the company used “augmented reality” digital tools to examine critical components with precision.
The tools were developed under VNA’s Hubgrade digital platforms for water, waste and energy operations. This platform uses ultrasound, vibration and thermal imaging along with inspections to get an accurate remote picture of which plant components were functioning properly, and which required upgrades or repairs.
The pilot, which also reduced expenses that would otherwise be incurred by sending experts to inspect the plant in person, has proven to be such a success that VNA plans to conduct remote assessments at many other water and wastewater plants. Besides equipment assessments, the technology can also evaluate safety conditions, identifying potential hazards. It will also allow the company to connect site staff quickly with in-house technical experts.
VNA has provided a case study of how the Hollister project was conceived and implemented.
SOURCE: Veolia North America
