ATLANTA, GA, Nov. 28, 2007 -- GE Energy and the Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati (MSDGC) today announced the successful implementation of a new reliability-based asset management program for MSDGC's wastewater treatment network. The new system "went live" earlier this month and is the culmination of a year-long project that required GE to design and implement a comprehensive program to improve MSDGC's maintenance and operating practices.
Improving the mechanical reliability of pumps and other equipment, especially during periods of peak demand such as after a rainstorm, was a critical aspect of the project. The GE-designed reliability program is part of a multi-faceted effort by MSDGC to improve its environmental compliance through better equipment reliability, ensuring that critical pumps are able to run during peak demand times. The program is also expected to reduce maintenance costs and energy usage while simultaneously enhancing safety and employee satisfaction.
Brian Palmer, vice-president of GE Energy's Optimization and Control business unit, noted that, "the U.S. water and wastewater industry faces a multitude of challenges due to aging infrastructure and decreasing operating resources. However, Cincinnati has risen to these challenges and is establishing itself as a leader in proactive asset management. We appreciate the confidence that the city has placed in GE by allowing us to help design and implement their newly launched reliability program."
Tony Parrott, executive director of MSDGC, was equally enthusiastic. "With GE's partnership, we have improved reliability, enhanced our systems, and ultimately, saved the rate payers money by implementing proven private sector practices into the public sector," said Parrott. "GE's approach has been impressive in coupling the changes to our work processes with the upgrades to our technology."
The Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati manages the effective collection and treatment of more than 200 million gallons of wastewater each day and actively maintains 3,000 miles of sanitary and combined sewers that run through the 49 municipalities and townships of Hamilton County, Ohio.
GE Energy is one of the world's leading suppliers of power generation and energy delivery technologies, with 2006 revenues of $19 billion.
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