COMPUTERIZATION

In 1999 the Westinghouse Computer System at York underwent an extensive hardware and software upgrade. The work was completed to ensure Y2K compatibility and serviceability into the 21
st century. This was the first upgrade on the computer system in ten years. The new WDPF system is now capable of processing data from over 26,000 I/O points (double the size of the "old" system).
Electric power usage is also computerized. A computer on the Westinghouse system runs a "load-shed" program. This software calculates the power demand of the plant and can reduce the speeds of various plant equipment to reduce "on-peak" power demand. Additionally, the Westinghouse computer system works in tandem with the Co-generation system's Allen-Bradley PLC to operate the "peak shave" program logic. When the plant load remains above a defined set point, the Westinghouse system notifies the Allen-Bradley controller to start another 460kw generator so that purchased utility electric power consumption can be reduced further. These same systems monitor methane gas volumes being produced by the plant and will run the generators on it before using utility natural gas.
Data from the Westinghouse computer system is uploaded to a Hewlett-Packard ALPHA computer system where it is archived and accessed via OSISoft's PI software. This software program is capable of storing up to 24 months of data before having to store the data to tape. Operators are able to monitor and analyze process point trends using the PI software.
Due to technological advances, staffing levels at the WWTP were able to remain at 32 full time employees in 2006. In addition, monthly purchased electrical power has been reduced from $66,000 in 1990 to $40,000 in 2006.