Vol 1 Chapter 13 SCADA and Control Assessment
Vol 1 Chapter 13 SCADA and Control Assessment
Vol 1 Chapter 13 SCADA and Control Assessment
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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The original system was the Motorola Intrac Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) series consisting of a
Power Supply, Basic Module, Status Input Module (SI-8), Analog Input Module (AI-8), Control
Output Module (CO-8) and a Maxtrac radio unit. Several units also were equipment with Line
Isolation Modules to isolate the higher input voltages from the RTU. These units were equipped
with a set of rechargeable batteries for operation during a power outage. The Intrac series is no
longer manufactured by Motorola, although parts are available by after market supplies.
The later installed RTU systems are of the Motorola MOSCAD-L series design. These units have
removable circuit boards and comprise a central processor, Status Input Modules, analog input
module, output module, a handheld transceiver radio, and battery back-up.
The older Maxtrac model radio output power is estimated to be 30 watts while the new models were
estimated at 2.5 watts. This is in comparison to cellular phone transmitters whose power output is
in the less than 0.5 watt range.
The radio frequencies used are within the Government of Guam (Gov Guam) trunked system (800
MHz Band) through four repeater sites providing coverage throughout the island. This is the same
system that is used by the Guam Police, Fire, and Emergency Services. The Guam Police (GPD)
manages the user database and assigns the talk group and identification of each unit on the system.
The repeater sites are secured and backed by uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), stand-by
generator, and radio redundancies. Several sites are shared with GTA (Guam Telephone). The
repeaters are linked by GTA’s fiber communications link. Future plans are to back this link with
Gov Guam owned microwave communications as well as to add repeater sites to provide better
coverage.
The SCADA system relies on input information from process instrumentation in the field. These
include basic items such as power fail, water pressure high, pump operate, generator operate, flow
pulsing, wet well level and alarms, etc. The output of the SCADA at the water pumping stations is
designed to provide pump starting and stopping capability in response to a tank or reservoir high
level condition. Locations without commercial power were equipped with photovoltaic panels to
charge the batteries.
13.3 Methodology
The methodology used to conduct this assessment consisted of site surveys and observations of the
existing SCADA and control equipment, review of digital photographs, field voltage checks and
communication testing (where possible). The survey covered the one year period of June 2004 to
May of 2005.
The results were tabulated using the rating scale as follows on the next page:
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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Each station was broken into separate subsystems where a weighted value was assigned. The total
was then added to arrive at a station assessment value. The maximum for any station would be a
value of 4.0. Only whole integers were used to compile the assessment while the weighted average
value is in tenths. The final value for the station is to the nearest tenths.
The detailed assessment sheets and tabulation were prepared as a template using Microsoft Excel
spreadsheet software and are located in the appendix section of this report. A summary and
explanation of each of the stations follows and can be used as a comparative reference for future
assessments.
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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Vol 1 Chapter 13
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“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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Level Control (5%) – The presence of float or other level control device
is essential for automatic operation. Stations where a sump pump was
manually operated were rated lower.
13.3.3.3 SCADA Remote Terminal Unit – 20% of Station Value
SCADA RTU (10%) – This rating is based on condition and
presence of the essential elements of the Motorola SCADA RTU
Unit. Items such as the power supply, control and input/output
modules and wiring affect this rating.
SCADA Antenna and Cabling (5%) – This value is based on the
presence and condition of the SCADA antenna and cabling.
Enclosure (5%) – This value is based on the condition and location
of the RTU equipment enclosure. Units installed within the building
or under the building eave scored higher than those located on the
windward side or completely exposed to the environment.
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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The RTU cabinets installed on the building exterior but under the roof
eave, appeared to be in fairly good condition.
At several stations, the wiring appeared to be incomplete. There were
cases of wiring installed within the cabinets but not terminated. A few
conductors were identified, however, many were not. The masking tape
that was used to identify wiring and equipment had deteriorated.
At the newer stations, the field and power wiring was installed but not
terminated.
No evidence of the central base station units was located. These would
have consisted of at least two personal computers (PC), field interface
units (FIU), and software. These devices are likely to be obsolete in
present times (likely a 386 or 486 type computer).
The directional (YAGI) antennas were basically intact at most stations
although a few were re-directed or damaged as a result of prior typhoons.
From information gathered, the initial SCADA system was installed
during a time period when either only the well head or the chlorination
shed existed. The generator building was constructed at a later date.
Most of the stations had 120 volt AC power present at the RTU cabinet.
In many cases, the RTU Power Supply Module had 120 volt present at
the input terminals but no 24 volt DC output voltage was observed at the
radio or RTU modules.
Most stations had their antennas and cabling intact.
The RTU cabinets that were installed within the building or under a
covered building eave exhibited less corrosion than those installed
directly exposed to the weather.
13.4.1.2 Water Pumping Stations
The following is a summary of existing SCADA system observations relating to the
Motorola System in place at the water pumping stations. These were primarily
located in the northern and central districts.
A minimum of nine stations (Station F-1, F-13, F-15, F-16, F-17, F-18, D-22,
M-20A, and F-21) had operational radio units. These units were able to
transmit or receive status information. The analog input signals (flow and
pressure) were noted to be wired to the analog input module. Discrete status
input points (pump run, generator run, power fail, chlorine detected, etc)
were not wired at most stations although wiring was present at the RTU.
At four stations (Y-16, Y-17, Y-21A, Y-23), the newer Motorola MOSCAD-
L units were installed, however, they were not powered or wired. These
units are capable of being programmed to work with the newer SCADA
technology.
A majority of the water well sites were originally installed without a means of
sheltering the RTU from the elements. This resulted in the RTU’s being
installed adjacent to the well or water line to being mounted on the
chlorine storage building. In both cases, the equipment was still exposed
to the environmental elements.
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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Figure 13-1 – Corroded SCADA Cabinet at A-21 (left) / SCADA unit in Good Condition at F-10 (right)
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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The pump motor used were either horizontal or vertical air cooled, type
construction pumps.
At most stations, generator backup power was provided.
13.4.2 Control System Observations
13.4.2.1 Water Pumping Stations
Most of the deep well water pumping stations are currently operating in manual
control mode and do not utilize inputs from the instrumentation.
Pump By-Pass Valve
Incorporated into the original piping and pump control system is a process for the
automatic divergence of the initial pump output to a by-pass line. There was
evidence that this automatic start procedure was operational or could be made
operational at the newer well stations. Without this automatic process in place,
injection of mud and debris or chlorine slugs in into the potable water system will
occur.
Figure 13-2 – Operational By-Pass Valve at Station Y-21A
The control system is designed such that the by-pass control valve would be in the
normally open position when the pump is not operational. When the pump
becomes operational, the valve actuator solenoid is energized by the pump control
system allowing pump flow to be directed to the closing diaphragm of the valve.
The initial pump output is diverted to the by pass line. The duration of this by pass
flow is set by the setting of the timing valve. When the by-pass valve is closed, the
pump output is forced into the line through the check valve.
The opposite is true when the pump is turned off whereby the flow is diverted to the
by-pass line allowing the check valve to gently close to reduce the effect of water
hammer on the system. When the by-pass valve is partially opened to actuate the
limit switch on the valve, the motor is turned off.
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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At Station Y-21A, the vent line for the by-pass valve solenoid was found to be
plugged. This was cleared and the timing valves adjusted such that the by-pass line
operated to divert the initial flow. The closing sequence did not operate as planned
as the limit switch adjustment was not correctly calibrated. During the duration that
the pump is not operational, the by-pass valve is in the open position. This leaves a
direct line to the well from the exterior for vermin to enter. It is highly
recommended that this line be screened.
Most of the by-pass valves at the older pumping stations, however, did not have the
diaphragm valve or the control solenoids or limit switches in place, such as shown in
the next photo.
Figure 13-3 – Non-Functioning By-Pass Valve and SCADA Cabinet at Station A-03
Pump Controls
The well pump control system is designed for external control through the SCADA
system while in the Automatic Mode of operation. This is to provide input from the
associated tank level controller programmed into the SCADA computer or through
remote operator intervention. Since the SCADA system is not operational, the wells
have been functioning in Manual Mode.
Chlorination Controls
The chlorination of the well water relies on manual monitoring and setting of the
chlorine injection control valve. A chlorination pump is used to inject a chlorine
mixture (gas and water liquid mixture) into the well discharge line which is based on
the well flow rate.
In automatic mode, the chlorine pump controls were found to be interlocked to be
dependent on the well pump operation controls, however, the operation of the well
pump is independent of the chlorination pump. At one of the stations, the
chlorination pump operated when in Hand control mode, without the well in
operation. This feature needs to be reconfigured with a spring return operator to
allow for temporary operation to check for motor rotation and testing as
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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chlorination liquid could be injected into the line or the pump will attempt to pump
“dry”.
Pump Instrumentation
Lack of monitoring water pressure also reduces the system effectiveness and
efficiency. Since there are no control communications in place between the
reservoirs and their respective pumping stations, it is impossible for the pumping
stations to cycle at the proper times in order to maintain a desired reservoir level.
The following are a list of instrumentation and related devices that should be
operational at every deep well water pumping station to provide a properly, safely,
and efficiently operated system.
Wellhead pressure monitoring: protects the pump from excessive
pressures due to valve failure or blockage. Also confirms that the pump
is operating within design pressure range.
Water flow meter: used to meter total water produced and form a part of
the calculation to determine system water losses.
Bypass valve solenoid: used to operate the bypass valve to purge the
system at the start pump cycle.
Water flow switch: used to confirm water flow and integrate into the
chlorination control logic.
Water pump starter: used to start and stop the deep well pump motor
and protect from overloads. Also monitor pumps status (overload trip,
on & off conditions).
Pump Motor Protector: used to provide added protection for voltage and
current unbalance, over and under current, phase loss or reversal, motor
over temperature with adjustable time delays.
Chlorination pump starter: used to start and stop the chlorination
injection pump motor and protect it from overloads.
Chlorine supply line solenoid: used to protect the system from accidental
injection of chlorine when pump is off.
Chlorine gas leak detector: used to provide local and SCADA alarm if
chlorine gas is detected.
Note: The system will work properly only if the associated mechanical equipment is
also operational. Most of the diaphragm actuated bypass valves require maintenance
or replacement. (The assessment of the condition of mechanical equipment is not
under the scope of this section).
Station Generator
The majority of the deep well water pumping stations has an emergency generator
installed. In the event of a power failure, the automatic transfer switch control panel
should automatically start the generator after a pre-determined delay period. The
transfer switch automatically transfers the station power to the generator source.
Upon power restoration, the control panel monitors for voltage stability, transfers
the station back to utility power, and allows the generator to go through a cool down
cycle.
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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The following are a list of recommended input points for monitoring the generator
to enhance the system operation:
Generator Run / Standby
Generator Fault
Voltage Unbalance
Power Fail
Battery Voltage
Fuel Tank Level
Day Tank Level
Transfer switch position
Note: While there are other generator and transfer switch input points that can be
monitored, the list above represents the minimum necessary for effective remote
monitoring by a SCADA system.
13.4.2.2 Booster Pumping Stations
Most of the water booster pumping stations are currently operating in manual mode
and do not utilize the benefits of the instrumentation and automatic control.
Figure 13-4 – Interior View of Brigade Booster Pump Station
Pump Instrumentation
To operate in an efficient manner, the monitoring of the system pressures and flow
are essential. Also, alternating pump operation even the mechanical wear on the
equipment. Two or more pumps could also be invoked in the event of high demand
or low pressure depending upon the design & capacity of the water distribution
system.
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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The following are a list of instrumentation and related devices that should be
operational at every potable water booster pump station in order for the station to
operate properly, safely and efficiently:
Inlet pressure transmitter: used to monitor pump suction pressure to
avoid cavitation and provide alarming.
Outlet pressure transmitter: used to monitor head pressure for control
logic and alarming.
Water flow meter: used to quantify volume of water pumped and to
calculate water losses.
Water flow switch: used to confirm water flow and for control system
interlocks and alarming.
Water pump starters: used to start and stop the booster pump motors
and protect it from overloads. Also monitors pump motor status
(overload trip, on & off conditions).
Pump Motor Protector: used to provide additional protection for
conditions of over and under voltage, and phase loss or reversal.
Control interlocks between the reservoir levels and the operation of the deep well
pumps and booster pumping stations were not evident. Lack of process controls
and instrumentation result in the following situations:
Low or High (Overflow) reservoir level
Low or No system pressure (line breakage)
High system pressure
Generator
The comments regarding the generator controls as found in the section on deep well
water pumping stations also apply to the water booster pump stations. Comments
regarding mechanical equipment condition also apply.
13.4.2.3 Water Treatment Plant
The Ugum water treatment plant is the only water treatment facility operated by
GWA. At the time of the onsite evaluation, most of the plant was being operated
manually with the exception of a bubbler system that controlled the pumping of
water from the finished water wet well to the reservoir. A chlorine leak detection
and a few minor systems and interlocks were also found to be operational. However,
the operators indicated that most of the plant was being operated manually.
Plant Instrumentation
The plant has a main control room that contains four control consoles as
manufactured by Leopold and six (6) programmable logic controllers (PLC). There
are also remote control stations throughout the facility used for local control
(example: operation of motorized valves). All of these systems were not in service.
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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It was not the intention of this assessment to review each individual I/O device in
the water treatment plant. The detailed equipment assessment resulted in an overall
process control rating of 1.86. This implies that most of the process control system
is out of service. Even though the plant is currently being operated manually, it is a
challenge to manually operate the plant at peak efficiency over a long period of time
while consistently producing high quality potable water.
The following are a list of major systems that should be automated in order to
achieve peak plant performance.
Finished water pump control system
Chemical mixing & feed system
Flocculation & coagulation control system
Sedimentation and filtration control system
Backwash control system
Blower control system
Booster pump station control system
Sludge removal system
Chlorination system
Finished water quality monitoring
Reservoir water level
Historical Collection System for:
- Plant optimization
- Troubleshooting
- Trending and Reporting
- Alarm annunciation and Reporting
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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In general, the local controls for the Ugum water treatment plant should be designed
to operate independently (without any external inputs). However, the operation of
the plant should be coordinated with the Ugum river raw water pump station and
other booster pump stations and reservoir levels, which would require external
communications.
Generator
The comments regarding the generator controls as found in the section on deep well
potable water pumping stations also apply to the Ugum water treatment plant.
Comments regarding mechanical equipment condition also apply.
13.4.2.4 Wastewater Pumping Stations
Most of the wastewater pumping stations had a Motorola SCADA RTU unit
installed, however, there were a few of the newer stations such as Chaot (New),
Chalan Pago 3 and 5, Machanao, etc. that were not equipped.
A few of the stations were observed to have operational radio and/or RTU modules
such as at Agana Main, Asan, and Piti.
Most of the RTU cabinets were installed indoors or under the roof eave. The
cabinets under the roof eave were observed to be in fair condition. Those located on
the building interior faired much better.
The field wiring was installed to the cabinets; however, many were not terminated
and need be traced. Masking tape was used for wire identification and many have
since become brittle and have fallen off the conductor.
Pump Operation
There are two types of pumping station designs used at the GWA Pump Stations:
Wet well with one or more submersible pumps
Wet well with multiple centrifugal pumps located in an adjacent dry well
In general, the stations with submersible pumps had their controls modified to
simple controls system consisting of wet well level detection and a pump alternator.
The larger wastewater pump stations have submersible pumps located in the dry
wells. In these stations it is important to have a fully functional sump pump and
high dry well level float switch to provide an alarm condition in the event of a flood
condition.
The minimum process control I/O, for wastewater pumping stations with multiple
pumps, are as follows:
High dry well level float switch
High wet well level float switch
Wet well level sensor
Power Failure
Pump starters
Generator run / standby status
Redundant pump start/stop controls
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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Voltage Unbalance
Battery Voltage
Fuel tank level
Day Tank level
Transfer switch position
Note: While there are many more generator and transfer switch input points that can
be monitored, the list above represents the minimum necessary for effective remote
monitoring by a SCADA system.
13.4.2.5 Wastewater Treatment Plants
The control systems were assessed at all of the wastewater treatment plants. In
general, all of the plants operational functions were being operated manually with the
exception of the wet well level control and associated motor alternation and control.
Even though the plants can currently being operated manually, it is a challenge to
operate the plants at peak efficiency. The automated systems enhance plants
operating at peak performance with minimal manpower.
Plant Controls
The following are a list of the major unit process areas that require properly
operating automation systems in order to achieve peak plant performance.
Headworks
Clarifiers
Pump gallery (sludge, recirculation, scum pumps, etc)
Centrifuges
Blowers
Digesters
Odor Control Systems
Chlorination
Effluent Pumps
Plant Generator
Not all of the systems listed above apply to all wastewater treatment plants.
In general, the control systems for the wastewater treatment plants should be
designed to operate independently (without any external inputs). However the
operation of the plants need be monitored from a central SCADA system since none
of the wastewater treatment plants have a 24-hour staff. A communication system to
a central SCADA system is necessary to accomplish this. In addition, it is
advantageous to have each treatment plant monitor the status of all pumping stations
associated with that plant.
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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Generator
The comments regarding the generator controls as found in the section on
wastewater pumping stations also apply to the wastewater treatment plants.
Comments regarding mechanical equipment condition also apply.
13.4.3 Assessment Summary
The following are summary tables of the findings and rating for the water and wastewater
pumping system. This evaluation is based solely on the condition of the equipment that was
installed at the GWA facilities at that time the assessment was made.
At the time of the assessment, most of the equipment were running in manual operation and
thereby bypassing the automatic process controls. The predominant automatic controls found
to be operational at most locations were the pump level control system at the wastewater
pumping stations. Most of the other systems were operating in manual mode. In general the
condition of most of the process controls were found to be between a rating of “1” and “2” on
the assessment scale.
Table 13-2 – Water Pumping Stations SCADA Assessment Totals
Station Name Pump Controls Chlorination System Pump By-Pass SCADA RTU Assessment Total
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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The following tables are a summary of an inventory of the existing SCADA equipment at the
water pumping stations visited. A “1” indicates the presence of that piece of equipment
while a “0” indicate the absence. A “U” indicates information that was not verified and the
equipment could be present. (This coding applies to the wastewater stations also).
Table 13-3 – Wastewater Pumping Stations SCADA Assessment Aggregated Totals
Station Name Pump Controls Sump Pump SCADA RTU Total
AGANA MAIN 2.10 0.20 0.60 2.9
ALUPANG COVE 1.50 0.00 0.00 1.5
ASAN 2.10 0.00 0.50 2.6
ASTUMBO 1 1.40 0.00 0.00 1.4
ASTUMBO 2 1.40 0.00 0.00 1.4
BARRIGADA 2.10 0.20 0.70 3.0
BAYSIDE EJECTOR 1.50 0.00 0.20 1.7
CABRAS 1.40 0.30 0.05 1.8
CHALIGAN 2.10 0.20 0.00 2.3
COMMERCIAL PORT 1.50 0.25 0.15 1.9
DAIRY ROAD 1.50 0.00 0.30 1.8
DOUBLE TROUBLE 2.10 0.10 0.40 2.6
FEMA 96 1.50 0.00 0.00 1.5
FUJITA (TUMON) 1.50 0.20 0.30 2.0
HAFI ADAI 1.40 0.00 0.00 1.4
HARMON 1.40 0.00 0.20 1.6
HUEGON 5 2.10 0.00 0.00 2.1
INARAJAN MAIN 1.50 0.00 0.30 1.8
LATTE PLANTATION 1.40 0.00 0.00 1.4
MACHANANAO 1.40 0.20 0.00 1.6
MACHECHE 1.40 0.00 0.15 1.6
MAITE 1.40 0.00 0.25 1.7
MAMAJANAO 2.10 0.20 0.25 2.6
MANGILAO 2.10 0.20 0.40 2.7
NEW CHAOT 2.10 0.30 0.00 2.4
OLD CHAOT 1.50 0.25 0.35 2.1
ORDOT 2.10 0.00 0.00 2.1
PACIFIC LATTE 1.40 0.00 0.00 1.4
PAGA CHAO 2.00 0.00 0.30 2.3
PAGO DOUBLE SHAFT 2.10 0.20 0.35 2.7
PASEO DE ORD 1.40 0.00 0.00 1.4
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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Table 13-3 – Wastewater Pumping Stations SCADA Assessment Aggregated Totals (continued)
Station Name Pump Controls Sump Pump SCADA RTU Total
PGD 2.00 0.00 0.00 2.0
PITI 2.10 0.20 0.40 2.7
PS-12 1.40 0.00 0.30 1.7
PS-15 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.0
PS-17 1.40 0.00 0.30 1.7
ROUTE 16 2.10 0.25 0.30 2.7
SANTA ANA SUBDIVISION 1.40 0.00 0.00 1.4
SANTA CRUZ 3 2.10 0.00 0.00 2.1
SINAJANA 2.10 0.25 0.35 2.7
SOUTHERN LINK 1.40 0.20 0.80 2.4
SUBMARINE 2.10 0.00 0.00 2.1
SUNSET VILLA 1.30 0.00 0.20 1.5
TAI MANGILAO 2.10 0.20 0.00 2.3
TALOFOFO 1.40 0.10 0.00 1.5
YIGO 1.40 0.20 0.35 2.0
YPAO 1.40 0.20 0.30 1.9
YPAOYPAO 1.40 0.00 0.35 1.8
Average Assessment 1.66 0.21 0.20 1.9
These four components will significantly assist in meeting Guam’s vision for growth and
development in a sustainable manner and enhance their ability to comply with all Federal and local
environmental and safety regulations.
To achieve the objectives of improved efficiency and reduced operational costs, the following are
recommended.
Phase 1
Based on the observations and preliminary testing, resurrecting the existing Motorola SCADA
System is recommended for the following reasons:
Approximately 10 to 20% of the RTU units are operational or can be with
relatively minor testing.
Components of the RTU units that are not functional or repairable will either be
used for parts or discarded. There will be a number of these spare units.
All batteries need be replaced with new.
One of the existing MOSCAD-L units could be converted to a field interface
unit (FIU) for the entire SCADA system.
A personal computer (PC) with SCADA software could be used as the base
station to receive the status of the water and wastewater system.
Off the shelf software such as that manufactured by Wonderware or Intellution
could be used in the PC.
The communication system is the same as that used by the Fire, Police, and
other emergency agencies and is owned and operated by Gov Guam.
Programming of the software for GWA operation is necessary, as in any SCADA
system.
Phase 2
During the second phase of the SCADA installation, the revised SCADA system would be
modified to accommodate the use of multiple users on a system LAN network. This is projected
to be within the next five years as the system is expanded.
13.5.1 Local Process Control Improvement Recommendations
This section includes general process control equipment recommendations including design
standards.
Standardization of Automation Devices and Design
A wide variety of manufacturers and equipment that perform identical functions currently
exists in the various types of GWA installations. This occurred naturally over several years
of operation and maintenance. Unfortunately, it is costly for GWA to maintain and
troubleshoot an adequate reserve supply of replacement parts due to the wide variety of
manufacturers and designs. Therefore it is recommended to select a standard device or
“family of devices” for each process control component as well as standardize on the design
schematic and wiring diagrams.
Simple design – While complex systems are available in the market today, it may not be the
best solution for GWA. It was observed that many of the electronic devices and wiring
methods had failed. Instead these systems were bypassed and other more simple systems
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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were installed. The most common example is an electronic level sensor replaced with a
simple bubbler or float system. Some devices will include electronics, however they should
be industrial rated and suitable for a harsh environment.
Manufacturer selection criteria – The manufacturer of the automation device should be a
recognized vendor with local representation of automation products with a large installed
base with parts readily available in stock. The manufacturer should demonstrate a track
record of support and supply of replacement stock over a long period of time.
Unfortunately these criteria may eliminate some of the new companies with new products.
GWA will have to weigh the use to their products against the risk of loss of long-term
support.
13.5.2 Local Process Control Requirements
Many of the sites had magnetic relays, timers, pump alternators and other “hard wired”
components that composed the local process control functions. While these systems
operate effectively, they usually only control the “core” function of the site. However, the
complexity of the “hard wired” systems increases dramatically when additional functions are
added to the control systems. Therefore, a critical threshold is reached whereby it is no
longer feasible to operate a site using traditional “hard wired’ components. As the number
of inputs and outputs at a site increase, the complexity of the wiring increases dramatically.
Troubleshooting the wiring becomes difficult and complex.
Programmable Logic Controllers and Remote Telemetry Units are designed to replace
complex “hard-wired” control systems. In addition, most are capable of a direct connection
to a telemetry system or have a telemetry system built into their architecture.
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and Remote Telemetry Units (RTU) both perform
process logic electronically. RTU's tend to be designed to perform specialized functions and
have limited process logic capabilities and are therefore proprietary in nature. RTU's also
offer additional capabilities such as built-in communication systems, radio and modem
equipment. RTU’s are usually more economical when compared to PLCs.
In contrast PLCs tend to be more complex and expensive yet offer versatility and scalability.
PLCs usually do not have built-in communication systems and usually require an external
radio or modem. A good example of use of an RTU would be in remote pumping stations
while PLCs would be used in a treatment plant. However, recently many PLC
manufacturers have reduced the size and price of some of their PLC family members to
compete with RTU manufacturers. At the same time, the PLC manufacturers have been
able to retain many of the capabilities of their traditional PLCs.
The PLC/RTU offers a high I/O density so that the unit does not have a large footprint.
The typical I/O density per I/O module is as follows:
Digital Inputs – 16 (non-isolated)
Digital Input – 8 inputs (isolated)
Analog Input – 4 inputs
Relay Output – 8 outputs (isolated and non-isolated)
Analog Output – 2 outputs
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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The PLC/RTU should have the capability to add additional I/O inputs and outputs without
having to replace the entire unit. The hardware should have the ability to be expanded to
accept up to 16 I/O modules.
The PLC/RTU should support remote access for remote configuration, programming &
troubleshooting. This should include full function capabilities using various communication
methods.
The PLC/RTU should support an open logic programming software product. This will
allow GWA to train the staff on the use of one programming package that has the ability to
program the processors located in remote pumping stations as well as the processors located
in the treatment plants.
13.5.3 Operations and Maintenance Recommendations
A detailed training program should be initiated and the training will vary depending on the
job responsibility of each staff member. In general there are four training classifications:
Operators
Maintenance
Information Technology
Management
Operator training includes the basic operation of the device, hardware or software if the
operator’s normal job functions require direct interaction with the product. For example, an
operator should understand the process functions whenever a PLC logic program is invoked.
However, the operator is not required to know how to program the PLC. The training
should include “hands-on” working with the process and equipment. Testing is also a
necessary portion of the training program in order to determine the level of operator
competence. Regular refresher training courses and testing assures that the operators
maintain comprehension of the system and continues to operate the systems properly.
Maintenance training includes all the topics presented to the operators plus a more in-depth
training on the actual installation. This includes wiring, terminations, processors, modules,
power supplies, calibration and testing. It also includes detailed training on PLC
programming, troubleshooting and monitoring. All training should be “hands-on” in both
the classroom and at actual field installations. In general the GWA maintenance staff should
be thoroughly trained so that they could troubleshoot, replace hardware and load PLC/RTU
logic without requiring outside assistance. Testing is also an important portion of the
training program to determine the level of competence. Regular refresher training courses
and testing assures that the GWA maintenance staff maintains a high level of competence to
be able to maintain the systems properly.
IT staff training includes all of the topics for operators and some of the general topics
provided to the maintenance staff. (Detailed PLC programming is not necessarily a job
responsibility required by the IT staff.) In addition, the IT staff should be thoroughly
trained in the network infrastructure, hardware (servers & workstations) and all software
programs running as part of the process control system. The IT staff should be trained on
performing backup and restore of the programs and communication troubleshooting. The
IT staff should also be trained on report generation.
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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The GWA management staff should be trained on the overall concept of the SCADA and
control systems as well as thoroughly educated on the function and capabilities of each
hardware and software component. Detailed management training should be performed on
all aspects of historical trending, analysis, report generation, alarming and performance
monitoring along with all other types of administrative capabilities of the SCADA system.
13.5.4 GWA Maintenance Equipment Requirements
GWA maintenance staff should be equipped with the proper tools and instrumentation for
calibration of the instrumentation. In addition the staff should have a minimum of two
ruggedized notebooks that have the PLC/RTU programming software loaded along with a
copy of all PLC logic programs.
GWA should maintain an adequate supply of replacement parts in stock.
13.5.5 Site Security and Intrusion Detection Security Monitoring System
Intrusion detection - GWA remote stations have experienced a high degree of vandalism and
unauthorized intrusion. Intrusion detection devices such as motion detectors, magnetic
door detectors, infrared light beams, etc should be installed at each remote location for
monitoring purposes. The intrusion will be displayed as an alarm.
The following is a list of the four main wireless technologies that are commonly used
with SCADA systems today:
Licensed radio (800 Mhz, UHF & VHF)
Unlicensed radio (Spread Spectrum)
Cellular communications
Satellite communications
While other wireless communication systems are available, such as microwave, they
are too expensive, too specialized or not widely used in today’s SCADA applications.
The following are a list of characteristics for each type of communication system:
Licensed radios
Low data throughput: 1.2 kbps to 9.6 kbps
FCC License Required – Government of Guam
Existing Government of Guam Trunked Radio System already in place
Minimal operation cost
Unlicensed radios
High data throughput: 2-3 Mbps or higher
Requires line of sight
High susceptibility to interference (EX: wireless residential phones)
Subject to signal loss during rain
Usually mount antennas on towers
Owner maintains equipment & infrastructure
High initial installation cost
Minimal operation cost
Cellular communications
Medium data throughput: 153 - 384 kbps (depending on selected
technology)
Non-line of sight
Requires monthly service fee per site
Service provider maintains infrastructure
Owner maintains radio
Moderate initial installation cost
Satellite communications
Low data throughput
Usually only transmits data using “Report on Exception”
Subject to loss of signal (rain fade)
Service provider maintains infrastructure
Owner maintains radio
Moderate initial installation cost
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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The assessment team visited the GWA IT manager and discussed the SCADA
requirements as presented in this section.
13.5.8.2 Data Highway
The main wireless connection will arrive into the SCADA system from the IT
department’s switches. The data could arrive via any one or more of the following
data highways:
GTA
Cellular radio
Internet T-1
Internet DSL (SDSL or ADSL)
Microwave
All data should pass through a hardware firewall that support virus signature
scanning and provides front line security protection to all computers behind the
firewall. The data should then pass through a router to isolate SCADA traffic from
GWA administration traffic.
13.5.8.3 Hardware Location
All SCADA hardware should be located in two dedicated 19-inch enclosed racks.
The racks should be located in a temperature and humidity controlled room and be
provided with Uninterruptible Power and back-up generator.
13.5.8.4 Thin SCADA Clients
The SCADA clients will be located on the existing GWA LAN and operate as single
board Thin Client computers that have terminal server sessions on the terminal
server computer located in the IT computer room. The SCADA thin clients do not
require any added software or maintenance since all software applications and
licenses are loaded and maintained on the terminal server. This significantly reduces
any maintenance requirements of client PCs. Thin client single board computers do
not have any moving parts and therefore have a significantly longer hardware life
span. In addition, thin clients require very little IT personnel maintenance since all
maintenance is performed in the server rack located in the IT department.
13.5.8.5 Printers
Network printers are to be installed on the existing GWA network. Reports are to
be printed from the SCADA reporting software.
13.5.8.6 IT Staff Responsibilities
The GWA staff will be responsible for maintenance of all the equipment located in
the two SCADA racks. In addition the IT staff is responsible for backup of data and
applications on a regular basis. High-density backup tape drives will be specified as
part of the hardware server requirements.
In addition, the IT staff will be highly trained on all applications loaded on the
SCADA servers with the exception of PLC programming. At least one person in the
IT staff should be trained on the SCADA software and communication drivers.
“This is a draft report and is not intended to be a final representation of the work done or recommendations made by Brown and Caldwell. It
should not be relied upon; consult the final report.”
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