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This paper discusses how, through the integration of the data available inmultiple information systems and technologies, EPCOR Water Services, Incorporated(EWSI) optimized the flushing frequency of their Unidirectional Flushing (UDF)Maintenance Program and effectively reduced their annual UDF costs by 25%.Five systems are integrated to develop an optimal unidirectional flushing program: unidirectional flushing (UDF) application;water maintenance management (WaMM) system;hydraulic model; Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); and,Geographical Information System (GIS).The UDF Application and GIS are evident systems involved in the UDF MaintenanceProgram. Together they generate the bridge between the field and the office through dataforms and maps. Each year the run designs are illustrated and the flushing results arerecorded through these documents. The UDF Application and GIS are also essential forthe design of the UDF runs. As well, the hydraulic model of the distribution system canbe applied to confirm water flows and velocities to ensure an overall effective andefficient design. WaMM contains information significant for the actual practice offlushing. It supports the UDF Maintenance Program through ensuring the operability ofthe valves and hydrants or at least identifying any out-of-service assets that may requireruns to be redesigned. LIMS is a valuable tool to monitor the effectiveness of UDF. Thewater quality records for both sampling specific to the flushing and sampling based oncustomer complaints provide direction to problematic areas of the distribution system.Each system has an independent part to play in the design of unidirectional flushing runs;together the systems can be used to optimize the UDF Program.In 2002, EPCOR Water Services Incorporated took a step back and questioned theirexisting Unidirectional Flushing Maintenance Program. Through efficient flushing, largecost savings can be realized through reduced manpower, energy consumption, and waterconsumption. A four-month UDF Frequency Optimization Study was conducted thatcompiled seven years of UDF data and combined the applicable information technology.The optimization study was a success because the information organization enabled aninformed and confident decision. The decision to extend flushing frequencies up to fouryears resulted from an invested $8,000 study; study recommendations resulted in savingsof approximately $150,000 Canadian dollars for the 2002 flushing season. Includes tables, figures.

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Edition: Vol. - No. Published: 04/27/2003 Number of Pages: 14 File Size: 1 file , 1.4 MB