SpillSens
SpillSens is a low-cost, ATEX-certified digital float sensor engineered for real time monitoring of sewage rising levels and blockages, when installed in a sewage pipe manhole. Designed for harsh wastewater environments, SpillSens continuously monitors for tilt angle changes.
Working Principle – Spill Sens Digital Float Sensor
Spill Sens operates on the principle of digital tilt sensing to detect rising wastewater levels and provide early warnings of potential overflows or blockages within sewer networks.
When installed at a specific vertical height within a chamber, the sensor naturally hangs in a vertical orientation under normal conditions—this state represents the “green” alert level, indicating that the wastewater network is functioning as expected.
As wastewater levels rise due to blockages, surcharge, or stormwater influx, the sensor begins to float, changing its angle relative to the vertical position. An internal digital inclinometer continuously measures this tilt angle. Based on pre-defined threshold values, the sensor classifies its orientation into three alert levels:
- Green (Normal): Sensor is hanging vertically. Network levels are within safe limits.
- Amber (Warning): Sensor has started tilting. This is an early indication that the water level is rising toward a critical point.
- Red (Critical): Sensor tilt exceeds a specified high threshold (e.g., >110°), indicating a potential overflow or severe blockage.
These tilt angle thresholds are pre-configured and allow water or municipal utilities or industrial maintenance teams to monitor changes in network conditions without requiring moving mechanical components (like traditional float switches or steel-ball sensors), thereby improving reliability and reducing wear.
Designed for use with telemetry for remote monitoring of sewage overflows, when connected to an HWM data logger such as the Intelligens WW, the sensor transmits multi-level alerts (green, amber, red) to the SpillGuard cloud portal, providing real-time monitoring from office without need for physical monitoring by field staff and rapid response capability. Its rugged, maintenance-free design ensures reliable operation with no moving parts, making it a robust solution for long-term level monitoring.
The sensor transmits alert signals to an HWM data logger, which is responsible for logging the event and communicating the data via a built-in modem to the SpillGuard online portal. This portal enables real-time monitoring of all sensor installations, allowing utility operators to visualize network status, receive alerts via SMS/email, and make informed decisions quickly.
ATEX Certified : Because of its intrinsically safe design, SpillSens can be deployed in ATEX Zone 0 hazardous environments, and its rugged, waterproof construction ensures consistent operation over long periods with minimal maintenance.
SpillGuard Cloud monitoring portal
The user will receive access to a dedicated online portal for the monitoring and fleet management of HWM’s unique multi-level alert system.
Using Google Maps, SpillGuard provides a detailed map interface which colour codes the status of each individual installation. The three alert levels (green, amber and red) can be supplemented with user-assigned statuses, as “site under investigation” or “alert cleared”.
SpillGuard can display general site statistics and trends, as well as specific site details. Individual users and reports are managed using an advanced platform which includes the option to forward alarm messages via e-mail or SMS.
Applications of SpillSens:
1. Wastewater Network Monitoring
SpillSens enables continuous and remote monitoring of wastewater levels across sewer networks. By providing real-time data and early warning alerts, it helps utility operators detect abnormalities in flow or level patterns, ensuring the system operates efficiently and mitigating the risk of unnoticed issues.
2. Sewer Overflow and Blockage Detection
Installed at key points within the sewer system, SpillSens detects early signs of rising levels typically caused by blockages or obstructions. Its multi-level alert mechanism helps prevent spills and overflows by enabling timely intervention, reducing environmental damage and costly clean-up operations.
3. Environmental Compliance Monitoring
For utilities and municipal bodies tasked with meeting environmental regulations, SpillSens provides critical data to demonstrate compliance. It supports accurate record-keeping of overflow events and system performance, facilitating reporting to regulatory authorities and promoting transparency.
4. Critical Infrastructure Protection
SpillSens plays an essential role in safeguarding infrastructure such as pumping stations, treatment plants, and sewer tunnels. Early detection of abnormal water levels helps prevent damage to vital assets, reduces the risk of operational downtime, and supports resilient infrastructure management.
5. Urban Drainage and Flood Risk Management
In urban environments prone to heavy rainfall and overburdened drainage systems, SpillSens helps monitor water levels at vulnerable points. Its timely alerts assist city planners and emergency response teams in preventing localized flooding, protecting property, and maintaining public safety.
6. Long-term Level Monitoring in Hazardous Locations
Thanks to its ATEX Zone 0 certification and robust, maintenance-free design, SpillSens is ideal for long-term deployment in hazardous or hard-to-access areas. It ensures continuous level monitoring in environments where safety and durability are critical, without the need for frequent servicing.
