Ambler M.
Weston Solutions, Inc., US
Keywords: automation, efficiency, photovoltaics, remediation
The goal of the project is reduction of contaminants associated with gasoline at a retail fuel station. Groundwater gasoline range organic concentrations at the site were 500 mg/L prior to system startup. Advanced technologies and automation were implemented to minimize the energy requirements, allow for flexibility in flow rates, minimize the operations and maintenance requirements, and maximize system run time. An electric catalytic oxidizer with exhaust heat recovery was used and energy consumption was tracked to analyze efficiency. Variable frequency drives on the blower and discharge water pump were utilized for more efficient variable speed operation. Solar powered groundwater sampling events were conducted using battery operated equipment charged in a photovoltaic equipped site trailer. Automated data acquisition with remote upload capability was utilized to minimize fuel consumption and labor associated with site visits. The results include a total system that consumes 5.2 kW. Site visits are required once per month on average due to remote data collection and automation. The system has been up and running for 88.6% of the time for the first 19 months of operation inclusive of all downtime associated with maintenance and configuration modifications. Project cost savings of 22.7% are associated with the Green Remediation efforts.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2011: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy
Published: June 13, 2011
Pages: 791 - 794
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Sustainable Materials
ISBN: 978-1-4398-7138-6