Threading Multiple Vendor Flow Meters through a Single Telemetry Site

All of MSDGC's Flow data customers care about a few simple objectives; timely delivery and easy access to understandable data interface that mesh with their project schedules. Their needs vary from data tables for modeling applications to clear graphical output for construction considerations. They seek to understand system responses to wet weather events, dry weather flows, or volumes for planning projects. But how to wind the threads from a large county system, with pipes ranging from 8 to 120 inch sewers, with their wild range of hydraulic conditions, into the single needle of the data presentation interface?The specification of multiple flow meter technologies and telemetry data transfer evolved by considering many good options of technologies available. From field services to data management, the system has allowed improvements in the way MSD of Greater Cincinnati manages their Long Term Telemetry Flow Meter Program. Continually striving to improve their data delivery has resulted in creative use of the web accessible data platform. Sometimes pushing, sometimes pulling equipment technologies and manufacturers; sometimes leading and sometimes following service providers. Hopefully listening to partners in work processes to enable simplification; MSDGC has incorporated District objectives into the demands of timely flow data delivery.Having a system-wide network of flow meter sites in place allowed MSDGC to be ahead of the game with a sound start, by having sites identified according to maintenance and hydraulic type, and with sound field services in place. This also allowed flexibility in meeting hydraulic and data collection challenges by applying experience and knowledge of meter technologies best suited to hydraulic conditions.Several program factors still begged for improvement, including the need to understand How to tackle the primary objective of presenting a consistent and understandable interface for the data users. Also, determining how to maximize quality control of data and service partnerships is key to providing sound data. How to reduce the burden of archiving tasks is a priority as MSDGC expands or strengthens its data collection methods and services. Lastly, determining if there can be a streamlined process to improve data delivery that allowed the users to access on their own project schedules presents a viable challenge to increase efficiency.MSD of Greater Cincinnati presents their common data delivery platform using telemetry review to enhance data quality and service. Meeting short and long term flow meter project challenges to support CIP design and construction issues, Wet Weather and other District Program objective, the needle of web data interface allows tailoring flow data reporting to specific customer needs.