Institution news
Q: Could you briefly explain your role and involvement with fluid machinery operations and/or technologies?
Iggy Point Lezica (IPL): I work for Thames Water at Ashford Common, the largest water treatment works in Europe. In my current role I look after non-routine maintenance and asset failures, as well as continuously trying to optimise and improve the treatment process.
Q: What is the number one challenge facing those using pumps, valves and actuators in today’s current market?
IPL: In my company a large number of assets are coming up to the end of their useful life. The decision then comes to try and extend the life of the asset or renew it and benefit from new technology. There are far too many assets to renew all of them, so making the call is very challenging.
Q: What is the most exciting development in this field at the moment, either within your company or in the industry in general?
IPL: I believe that the progress made on drives and control is changing the way we operate individual plant and processes as a whole. I believe that in the water industry we are barely getting a glimpse of what intelligent control functionality has to offer.
Q: Where do you see the future of the use of these technologies going over the next 5 – 10 years?
IPL: The main downside of technology, in particular when it comes to electronics and PLC control, is the reliance on individual components and the reduced resilience that this offers. I believe robustness and reliability need a step change before new technologies are more widely adopted, especially in industries like the water industry that are so closely linked to public health.
Q: What are you most looking forward to in presenting at the Pumps, Valves and Actuators Conference?
IPL: It’s a great opportunity to see what other industries are doing and network.
To hear further insights from Mellish Kett and other senior engineers across thermal power, nuclear, water, petrochemical, oil and gas, we invite you to join the Pumps, Valves and Actuators 2017 conference next week on 6-7 December 2017 in Sheffield. Full details and booking can be found at the event website.