Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2026
06:04
Experimental Investigation of the Hierarchical Control in DC Microgrids Using a Real-time Simulator
Published on: February 14, 2025
RTC simulations on large branched sewer systems with SmaRTControl
Kees de Korte1, Dick van Beest, Marcel van der Plaat
1Waternet, PO Box 94370, 1090 GJ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. kees.de.korte@waternet.nl
Summary
Real-time control (RTC) using SmaRTControl algorithms can significantly enhance sewer system and wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) performance. Simulations show improved efficiency during rain and dry weather, demonstrating RTC
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Water Resource Management
- Wastewater Systems Optimization
Background:
- Large, branched sewer systems are prevalent in The Netherlands.
- Existing systems face performance challenges, particularly during varying flow conditions.
- Optimizing sewer network and wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) operations is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a universal algorithm, SmaRTControl, for improving sewer system and WWTP performance.
- To assess the impact of real-time control (RTC) on system efficiency under different flow conditions.
- To introduce and validate a new performance assessment parameter, the System Related Inefficiency Coefficient (SIC).
Main Methods:
- Simulation of RTC effects using a hydrological model encompassing 19 drainage districts.
- Introduction and application of the System Related Inefficiency Coefficient (SIC) for performance evaluation.
- Analysis of system performance under both rain weather flow and dry weather flow conditions.
Main Results:
- RTC, combined with increased pumping capacities, improves sewer system performance without increasing flow to the WWTP during rain.
- Wastewater flow to the WWTP can be equalized during dry weather through in-sewer storage.
- The System Related Inefficiency Coefficient (SIC) proved to be an effective metric for assessing sewer system performance.
Conclusions:
- SmaRTControl demonstrates significant potential for enhancing sewer system and WWTP performance.
- Hydrological modeling and simulation are essential for validating RTC strategies.
- The System Related Inefficiency Coefficient (SIC) is a valuable tool for performance assessment in wastewater management.
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