The manual operation of remote decentralised plants such as rainwater retention basins is costly in terms of both time and money. However, energy-autonomous automation with photovoltaic or wind power allows operation and monitoring from a central control room.
The energy-autonomous solution from Festo actuates the gate valves automatically by remote control. A photovoltaic or wind-power system supplies the necessary electricity for the operation of this valve terminal solution. A compressor generates compressed air. A compressed air reservoir and a rechargeable battery system act as an energy supply buffer to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the pneumatic drives. A charge controller provides protection against excessive charging or deep discharge. Remote access is via the local mobile phone network.
Using a GSM modem, the entire system can be controlled and monitored remotely from the control room of a wastewater treatment plant. A data logger continuously documents the charge status of the rechargeable batteries and records the charging behaviour. The compressed air generation times are also monitored and the data are transmitted to the control centre. Leaks, problems with the power supply and other faults can thus be detected and rectified at an early stage.
Festo supplies a complete automation solution and also supports operators, planners and plant constructors during the planning and construction phases.