Case Study: Stormwater Trench Remote Level Monitoring

Stormwater Level Monitoring with Wireless Remote Ultrasonic

Overview

An engineering firm was tasked with developing an efficient solution for monitoring water levels within an infiltration trench as part of a stormwater management system. The trench, integrated with R-Tanks, collects and stores stormwater, reducing runoff and flood risks by facilitating groundwater infiltration. The firm required a reliable sensor capable of monitoring water levels and transmitting data wirelessly for remote monitoring.

Challenge

Accurate water level data is essential for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the stormwater infiltration system. The engineering firm required a solution that could meet the following specifications:

  • Harsh Environment Durability: The sensor had to function reliably in harsh conditions, including high moisture, temperature fluctuations, and potential flooding within the R-Tank monitoring port.
  • Compact Size: The sensor needed to fit within a 12″ diameter PVC monitoring port while measuring water levels up to 6.5 feet deep.
  • Wireless Data Transmission: Battery operation was required, along with wireless data transmission for remote monitoring. Signal interference from the metal lid that capped the monitoring port was a concern.

Solution

ABM’s Wireless Remote Ultrasonic Level Sensor was selected as the optimal solution. The compact sensor, designed with a built-in cellular modem and battery pack, provides a reliable wireless water level monitoring solution for the infiltration trench.

Key aspects of the solution included:

  • Installation and Setup Support: ABM engineers provided mounting guidance, remotely set up and calibrated the sensor, and ensured optimal placement of the cellular antenna, enhancing signal strength.
  • Remote Data Access: Sensor data was transmitted to ABM’s servers and made available on the Sensor Access website for real-time monitoring of water levels.
  • Environmental Protection: The IP68-rated sensor withstands outdoor conditions, ensuring durability and reliability in the field.
  • Self-Cleaning Feature: The sensor’s ultrasonic transducer is designed with a self-cleaning function, automatically removing condensation or build-up from its surface, thus ensuring long-term, maintenance-free performance.

Key Benefits

  • Real-Time Data Monitoring: The sensor provides continuous, up-to-the-minute water level data, enabling engineers to assess system performance and capacity in real time.
  • Proactive Maintenance Alerts: Configurable email alerts notify users when water levels approach critical thresholds, enabling early intervention to prevent system overload or failure.
  • 24/7 Remote Support: ABM’s remote sensors are fully supported by ABM engineers for setup, sensor optimization, and calibration. Ongoing support is available to enhance the sensor’s performance with custom filters and address any issues promptly, ensuring reliable operation.

Conclusion

By adopting ABM’s Wireless Remote Ultrasonic Level Sensor, the engineering firm gained access to accurate, real-time water level data for the infiltration trench. Monitoring and receiving alerts for system anomalies enhances stormwater management, improves operational efficiency, and ensures the long-term success of the infiltration system. ABM’s sensor offers a dependable, low-maintenance solution for managing stormwater and minimizing flood risks in challenging environments.

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