Case Study
Wireless Digital Transformation Network at Local Power Utility Company
Project Overview
The Wireless Digital Transformation Network at a Power Plant aims to improve asset management, operational efficiency, and real-time data monitoring by deploying a state-of-the-art wireless infrastructure. This network will enable proactive maintenance, reduce downtime, and allow future scalability with easy integration of new sensors and devices. The project began with a site survey to lay the groundwork for the system’s design and infrastructure layout.
Project Goals and Scope
The primary goal was to establish a wireless network to transmit critical data across plant areas to a central monitoring system, integrated with the existing OSI Pi system for data analysis. The project also focused on flexibility, allowing future expansion as new equipment is added. The scope covered assessments of key areas like the River Intake, Cooling Tower, and Unit 6 facilities to finalize FDAP placement, fiber routing, and transmitter mounting.
Key Objectives and Actions
Site Assessments
River Intake
The team identified more reliable fiber routes and FDAP placement adjustments, including remote antennas for underground spaces, ensuring efficient data collection.
Cooling Tower
Challenges like height and distance were addressed by placing an additional FDAP atop the tower and optimizing fiber routing to ensure communication with other plant areas.
Unit 6
Unit 6 required multiple FDAPs for coverage and redundancy. The team mapped out key locations for equipment integration and ensured infrastructure readiness.
Next Steps and Implementation Plan
Next, a wireless network survey will refine FDAP placement, fiber paths will be confirmed, and necessary equipment will be procured and tested. The Honeywell wireless device manager will be integrated into the OSI Pi system, enabling real-time data visualization. Final network documentation will be distributed to ensure accurate implementation.
Conclusion
The Wireless Digital Transformation Network will enhance asset monitoring, improve operational visibility, and reduce downtime at the power plant. With its scalable design, the network will support long-term digital transformation and operational efficiency, delivering lasting benefits through careful planning and collaboration.