As the UK water industry embarks on the PR24/AMP8 journey, Andy Hammond, Managing Director, Flexim UK & Ireland, examines the advantages clamp-on ultrasonic flow meters can provide in supporting sustainability goals by minimising the need for invasive installations.
Innovation Takes On PR24 / AMP8 Challenges
Ofwat has approved a landmark £104bn investment plan to accelerate the delivery of cleaner rivers and seas, while securing long-term drinking water supplies for customers during the 2024 price review / asset management plan period 2025–2030. As UK water companies gear up for this transformative phase, the focus is clear – improve efficiency, enhance sustainability, and meet stringent environmental goals. These ambitious expectations demand cutting-edge solutions to manage water resources effectively, and clamp-on ultrasonic flow measurement is emerging as a vital tool in achieving these targets. Its versatility, accuracy, and non-intrusive nature align seamlessly with the objectives of this critical investment phase.
Enhancing Network Efficiency
Accurate flow measurement is central to reducing leakage and optimising water distribution systems. Clamp-on ultrasonic flow meters provide precise, real-time flow data without requiring costly pipe modifications or shutdowns. This capability enables water companies to monitor flow rates at critical points, quickly detect anomalies, and address inefficiencies. With leakage reduction a key PR24 priority, this technology directly supports network performance improvement and water conservation.
Supporting Sustainability Goals
The environmental focus of PR24 includes reducing carbon emissions and improving wastewater treatment efficiency. Clamp-on ultrasonic flow meters contribute by minimising the need for invasive installations, reducing the carbon footprint of operations. In wastewater applications, these meters enable accurate monitoring of inflows and outflows, optimising treatment processes and ensuring compliance with environmental standards. Their long-term reliability also reduces maintenance requirements, further cutting emissions associated with frequent servicing.
Cost-effective Asset Management
Because clamp-on technology is non-intrusive, and can be retrofitted to existing infrastructure without disruption, this makes it an attractive and flexible solution for asset management, aligning with PR24’s emphasis on cost-effectiveness and resilience. Water companies can deploy these meters across diverse applications, from monitoring abstraction volumes to ensuring compliance with abstraction licenses.
A Smart Investment for the Future
As the UK water industry embarks on the PR24/AMP8 journey, clamp-on ultrasonic flow measurement offers a pathway to greater efficiency, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. By leveraging this innovative technology, water companies can not only meet Ofwat’s ambitious goals but also build a more resilient and environmentally responsible future.
