The role of AI and IoT in advancing water recycling systems
As the world grapples with growing water scarcity and increasing environmental pressures, advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are transforming water recycling solutions in the built environment. These technologies enable more efficient operations, better monitoring, smarter decision-making, and improved resource management. Epic Cleantec has embraced AI and IoT devices to enhance our OneWaterTM system’s water reuse capabilities, ensure our projects are managed well, and to provide owners with real-time reporting on water quality and usage data.
It’s important to note that AI is not “The Solution” to the greater problems of global water mismanagement or climate change issues, but more a tool that can help provide a path to solutions. When integrated with onsite water recycling technology, building owners and system operators will be empowered to make better decisions and improve system output.
Smarter monitoring with IoT
The Internet of Things connects physical devices—such as sensors, meters, and pumps—to the digital world, allowing real-time data collection and communication. In our projects, IoT devices monitor critical parameters like water quality, flow rates, and pressure at multiple stages of the recycling process. Connected devices are crucial to a high-functioning system and provide our operators with information, such as leaks or system inefficiencies, to take action as quickly as possible.
Cloud connectivity further enhances IoT’s capabilities. Data collected from sensors is transmitted to Epic’s built-in and remote enabled Eco-Insights dashboard where it can be analyzed and visualized. This transparency allows project stakeholders to track system performance in real-time, enabling faster responses to issues and improving overall reliability.
Optimizing operations with AI
Artificial intelligence takes IoT data to the next level by analyzing it to uncover patterns, predict outcomes, and even suggest optimal actions. In water recycling, AI-driven algorithms can forecast system demand, predict maintenance needs, and even identify potential failures before they occur.
One way Epic takes advantage of AI is with predictive maintenance. Most large-scale reuse systems utilize fixed maintenance schedules which can lead to unnecessary downtime or overlooked issues. Epic’s systems use sensor data to detect leaks and predict when components are likely to fail. By scheduling maintenance only when needed, our operators save time, reduce costs, and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
We can also utilize AI to optimize the treatment process. If implemented, machine learning models can analyze historical data to recommend the ideal combination of treatments for specific water conditions and regulatory standards, minimizing energy and chemical usage.
Integrating AI and IoT for smarter systems
The combination of AI and IoT creates a feedback loop that continually improves onsite water recycling systems. IoT devices provide the data, while AI analyzes it to generate actionable insights. Additionally, Epic’s customized work order app ensures a seamless process for maintenance requests, minimizing any system downtime.
For example, Epic’s fully integrated system could automatically adjust pump speeds or valve settings based on real-time flow and quality data. If a sensor detects a spike in contaminants, AI could recommend process adjustments or issue alerts to operators. This level of automation not only reduces human error but also ensures a more consistent and efficient recycling process.
Scaling sustainable water management
By integrating AI and IoT, onsite water recycling systems are becoming more adaptable and resource efficient. Epic’s technology and processes reduce operational costs, improve system reliability, and ensure high-quality recycled water for diverse applications. As global water challenges intensify, AI and IoT will continue to play a vital role in advancing sustainable water management solutions for the built environment and beyond.
The future of water recycling lies in smart technology, driving innovation toward a more sustainable and water-secure world.
