OPTIMIZING THE OPERATION OF LARGE INTERCEPTOR SYSTEMS

The operation of large interceptor systems is complex. In most systems, static regulators are used to limit inflows into interception system and ensure that treatment plant capacity is never exceeded. Full capacity is then hardly ever used and the system still overflows often. To capture more flow, especially in recurrent wet weather, interception may be regulated by dynamic regulators. Regulating these structures according to water levels in the interceptors may yield significant performance improvements but it doesn't help operators figure how much flow will reach the plant and when. Also, depending on the configuration and size of the interception system, performance improvements may vary and be very limited if only local control strategy are put in place. Hence, a more global and optimal approach to flow control can be very beneficial. We may provide operators with decision support tools that will predict and regulate flows according to current and available plant and pump station capacities, wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) configuration, control devices and equipment status, and size and extent of wet weather events. The City of Montreal is finishing the upgrade of its local reactive Real-Time Control system to a global optimal RTC (GO RTC) system with radar rainfall predictive capabilities. The system optimizes regulated flows in the interceptors and to the WWTP during wet weather. This paper covers the system architecture, the expert system main modules, the field equipment needs, the main steps of implementation, and initial operational results.