Optimização da eficiência operacional da estação de tratamento de água 3 de Umbeluzi: melhoria do sistema automático

Abstract

This report presents a proposal for the modernization of the Umbeluzi Water Treatment Plant 3, aiming to optimize its operational efficiency through the automation of critical processes. The analysis revealed that the plant, although recently built, operates with significant manual dependence and lacks real-time monitoring and control systems, resulting in operational losses and risks to the quality of the distributed water. Technological solutions were proposed, including the installation of digital sensors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for centralized supervision. These solutions enable more accurate chemical dosing, automated pump operation, and preventive alarm generation. Despite the high initial investment, the medium- and long-term benefits outweigh the costs, including reduced consumption of chemicals and electricity, greater reliability of the water supply, and faster response to critical events. The system also includes training for operators and adapting the infrastructure, ensuring the system's sustainability and ongoing efficiency.