Key Largo to install large scale telemetry monitoring technology in its sanitary collection system

Installation of FLOVAC Americas radio-telemetry monitoring technology to help prevent SSOs and warn collection system’s operations of potential issues to begin

Flovac, experts in solving difficult sewage engineering problems in unique geographic area using vacuum technology, has been contracted by the Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District, Florida, to install its wireless monitoring system (FMS). The project is partially funded through a grant from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The driver of the project to assist the Key Largo’s sanitation system cope when hurricanes and large storms hit the Florida Keys. The monitoring technology is to provide the district with real-time alerts of system issues as a means of mitigating SSOs. The installation is expected to take approximately two years to complete and will utilize a basin-by-basin approach to make such a large-scale project manageable. The monitoring technology will be deployed throughout the district’s vacuum collection system, grinder pump collection systems and force mains.

Once online, the system will monitor levels and pressures continuously and if changes outside normal operating conditions are detected, alerts will be sent to the district’s staff through Gateway transmission. Changes to the system can be made remotely and this will give operations crews time to conduct a field response to address issues such as low pressure, high flow, or other system failures.

Key Largo’s vacuum sewer pits resemble manholes seen in traditional gravity sewer systems and the monitoring devices will be installed inside of the existing pits/pedestals and so will be hidden and undetectable by residents and will not impact the appearance of neighborhoods.

“We are excited to be working with Key Largo and incorporating our technology into their existing infrastructure. Similar implementations have provided our clients with the ability to see what is happening in their systems in real-time and get ahead of issues before they occur and we look forward to delivering those same benefits and operational cost savings to Key Largo,” shares Michael Pringle, Director of Operations at FLOVAC Americas.