In the water and sanitation sector, the clock is ticking towards April 2025, when the UK’s water authorities will face a new set of regulatory challenges under the Asset Management Period 8 (AMP8). The stakes are high, with stricter regulations aimed at tackling pollution and climate change impacts. Failure to comply could result in hefty fines, public backlash, and reputational damage. This regulatory tightening is causing water companies to reassess their operations, with a keen focus on sustainability and carbon emissions. Companies are grappling with energy consumption, operational demands, site upgrades, and the need for innovative solutions. “Carbon footprint requirements have quickly become a universal priority,” says Gavin MacGregor, Regional Sales Engineer at Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Solutions (WMFTS). This shift is not just about meeting regulations; it’s about future-proofing the industry.
WMFTS is stepping up to these challenges with its Qdos® range of peristaltic dosing pumps. These pumps are designed to simplify processes, reduce costs, and lower carbon footprints. MacGregor highlights that Qdos pumps can eliminate the need for ancillary equipment, which not only cuts costs but also reduces the physical and carbon footprint of dosing skids. “Our customers found Qdos beneficial from a total cost of ownership aspect as it eliminates the necessity for ancillaries such as foot valves, loading valves, pulsation dampeners and the additional pipework and isolation valves to accommodate the ancillaries,” he explains. The pumps’ tool-free pumphead change ensures minimal downtime and reliability, further reducing operational demands and emissions from site visits.
Accuracy is another area where Qdos pumps shine. With an accuracy of ±1% and repeatability of ±0.5%, these pumps can lead to significant chemical savings and reduced emissions from less frequent chemical deliveries. This precision is crucial for water and wastewater treatment, where precise chemical dosing is vital for effective treatment and regulatory compliance. The simplicity and easy installation of Qdos pumps, along with their operational benefits, have made them a preferred choice for contractors and water authorities across the UK. They are being used in various challenging applications that were historically difficult for diaphragm pumps. “Qdos was designed to be a disruptive technology, an alternative solution to the heavily populated diaphragm pumps typically associated within chemical dosing applications,” MacGregor asserts.
The shift towards Qdos pumps is not just about immediate benefits; it’s about long-term sustainability and compliance. The pumps’ compliance with the revised Water Industry Mechanical and Electrical Specification (WIMES) guidance further solidifies their position as a future-proof solution. The recent launch of the Qdos H-FLO, capable of flow requirements up to 600 L/hr, underscores WMFTS’s commitment to technological innovation. The H-FLO’s common drive and interchangeable pumpheads offer process flexibility and future-proofing, while its revolution counter function aids in planned and preventative maintenance.
As the water and sanitation sector navigates the complexities of AMP8, the adoption of innovative solutions like Qdos pumps could set a new standard. Companies must consider their key drivers—whether accuracy, safe maintenance, or carbon emissions—and align their choices with these priorities. The shift towards Qdos pumps is not just a trend; it’s a strategic move towards sustainability, cost-efficiency, and regulatory compliance. As more water authorities adopt these pumps, the sector could see a significant reduction in carbon footprints, operational costs, and regulatory risks. This transition could reshape the industry, driving it towards a more sustainable and efficient future.
