LabLite PC SCADA Integration
LabLite LLC has recently completed an installation of LabLite PC (process control) at a water plant serving a city in northern Louisiana. The goal was to minimize labor and transcription errors by capturing SCADA data directly into the LabLite PC SQL Server database.
The inherent problem with this concept is that SCADA is collecting meter readings on varying frequencies (ex. once every minute) and the LIMS only needs summary data such as: the highest 15 minute reading during a four hour period. The LIMS database should not store unnecessary data that would force frequent archiving or slow response time. Also the SCADA database needs to be purged often to avoid similar problems.
LabLite PC includes stored procedures that can poll the SCADA database for updates every hour and run calculations for mean, minimum, maximum and average values that are then stored in the LabLite SQL database. This filtered information is combined with routine manual entry by the operators and lab techs to auto generate a variety of reports. These include: daily, weekly, monthly and annual ops reports as well as state compliance reports. It is estimated that the LabLite PC/SCADA integrated system has saved an average of 120 hours of labor per month during the first quarter of operation.
At this rate of labor savings times $15/hour LabLite PC will pay for itself within one year and will guarantee ongoing efficiency and accuracy for years to come.
