Jetting equipment manufacturer Jetchem Systems has teamed up with United Utilities and Amey to produce two new systems designed to aid in the prevention of flooding.
The Interceptor Draw Off System (or iDOS, pictured) is situated in potential areas of flooding, and draws off and stores excess waste and water in tanks. Since its initial showcase at NoDig in 2018 the firm has added an improved pump and a solar charging system.
The system pumps liquids and waste to designated storage tanks on site or a short distance away. It uses an ATEX-rated pump, and any liquids or solds are stored in 1000-litre tanks, any number of which can be installed.
Once the system is triggered (via a pre-set level in the storage tanks) an alert is sent out to designated mobile phones. A modular design makes the system flexible for setting up in different locations, says the firm.
Paul Taylor, MD of Jetchem Systems, said: “Our work with local authorities and drain companies highlighted not only the impact a flood can have on the immediate area but also the cost of removing excess water and rectifying any damage sustained to the environment. Jetchem has now installed iDOS systems in several locations across the North West of England which have performed very well, saving the local authorities time and money.
Zak Haworth, Accounts Manager for Amey said his firm had installed several iDOS systems in flood risk areas, and added that “with a simple hire we have managed to reduce our engineer call-outs, saving time and money”.
Jetchem has also been involved in developing the Flood Monitor, a compact device which can be located in manholes, chambers, cellars, and various spaces, as a pre-flood warning system. The device remotely monitors an area for rising water levels, sending an alert message to designated mobile phones once a preset level has been exceeded. The alert gives a map location for the monitor so an engineer can then attend site and assess the area.
The Flood Monitor is ATEX-rated providing safety assurance in a range of locations. Jetchem has been working closely with a local authority over the last few months, with multiple Flood Monitors now installed in locations across the North West. The devices are all monitored and maintained by Jetchem, with alerts going out to engineers. The Flood Monitor is installed and set up by trained technicians, with seemingly minimal disruption to installation areas.
Chris Burns of UU explained: “We took around six months to develop and trial both of these technologies. Putting them into practice has helped us significantly reduce sewer flooding at customers’ properties.
