Harnessing Nature's Bounty: Rainwater Reclamation System Powers Sustainability at Wilo USA
2.14.2024
At the Wilo Americas headquarters located in Cedarburg, WI, we have taken a significant step towards eco-friendliness with the implementation of a cutting-edge Rainwater Reclamation System as part of our broader sustainability initiatives.
The Initiative
In 2023, we embarked on a journey to enhance the sustainability of our operations, and one notable project stands out: the Rainwater Reclamation System. This innovative system is strategically designed to provide makeup water for our water pump test lab (Shown in Figure 1), showcasing a commitment to efficiency, resource conservation, and environmental responsibility.
How it Works
The Rainwater Reclamation System (shown in Figure 2) collects rainwater from 10,000 square feet of rooftop and runs it through a filtration process. Before the water even enters the system, it goes through a debris filter to keep things clean. From there, the filtered water is stored in a large 4,400-gallon tank located right in the test area.
A sensor in the test pit detects a drop in water levels to a predefined minimum, which triggers our state-of-the-art QuantumFlo rainwater harvesting system to kick into action, pumping the stored rainwater into the test pit. This process not only ensures a consistent water supply for our test lab but also showcases the seamless integration of technology with sustainability goals.
Advanced Filtration and Disinfection
Once in the test pit, the reclaimed rainwater undergoes an additional purification process to meet the stringent quality requirements of our operations. A combination of cartridge filters and UV light disinfecting units (shown in Figure 3) ensures that the rainwater is free from impurities and pathogens. This dual-filtration approach not only guarantees the safety of the water but also maximizes the lifespan of our equipment.
Smart Control System
The whole Rainwater Reclamation System is run by a smart control panel with an easy-to-use touchscreen. It lets us monitor everything in real time and keep the system running smoothly. The touchscreen shows water levels, system status, and makes it simple to tweak settings as our test lab's needs change.
Environmental Impact
By implementing this Rainwater Reclamation System, we have significantly reduced our reliance on traditional water sources. This not only conserves water but also minimizes the environmental impact associated with water extraction and distribution. The rainwater system is estimated to use 22,000 gallons of rainwater a year. Additionally, the system aligns with our commitment to responsible water management, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly manufacturing process.
Conclusion
At our Americas Headquarters, the Rainwater Reclamation System is a great example of how we're putting our commitment to sustainability into action. By collecting and reusing rainwater, we keep our test lab running efficiently while doing our part to conserve natural resources. It’s one of the ways we’re showing that innovation and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
Blog authored by Luke Copp, Marketing Specialist