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The Wi-Fi System at BKK
The BKK wireless system consists of a Wi-Fi backbone to which several wireless applications can, and will, connect. The system is designed to have the ability to control various landfill operations from a remote location. Data are collected in the field, transmitted to two Wi-Fi repeaters, conveyed to a central Wi-Fi unit (a “gateway”), and through the BKK computer system router, are sent to controlled-access Internet websites. SCS can then access the websites and view the status of systems as well as make changes to programmable field equipment. Lastly, the Wi-Fi system provides in-the-field web access; data are accessible in the field via laptop computers and other devices.
Irrigation
Wireless links were installed in the nine irrigation controllers already on the landfill. The controllers communicate on the local Wi-Fi network to coordinate the irrigation scheduling, and then transmit that information to a secure internet site, where SCS can easily change the irrigation schedule to meet BKK’s fluctuating irrigation water budget.
Previously, the irrigation water budget was not controlled in the most efficient way, because the irrigation controllers were difficult and laborious to program manually, and the water budget was tedious to monitor daily. With the help of a new user-friendly website, user error is reduced, time and resources are saved, reports can be generated, and all irrigation data are automatically stored.
Security
Closed circuit security cameras were installed at the main and Nogales gates to help monitor possible intruders and illegal activity. The video feed is then transmitted to websites, via the Wi-Fi network.
Future Possibilities
In addition to the current applications, many more operations at BKK could potentially be made simpler, easier, more accurate, or safer with the help of the new wireless system.
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System Monitoring
Monitoring of leachate, water, and landfill gas (LFG) lines is currently done manually by the crew, which is time and labor-consuming. If site flow monitors, pressure gauges and totalizers are instrumented with Wi-Fi, that data would be sent to a database. This would result better site operational control and aid in the rapid detection of liquid system leaks.
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LTP and Flare Station Operations
Operations at the leachate treatment plant (LTP) and flare stations require daily measurement of several operational metrics. Combining Wi-Fi technology with the current Programmer Logic Control (PLC) system would result in the ability to monitor the PLC’s remotely. In addition, Wi-Fi could be used as a means to activate certain functions such as pumps and cutoff switches, and would link the LTP and flare station PLC’s, giving an operator the ability to monitor and control both from a single location. Alarms at the LTP and flare station could be instrumented with wireless technology to send out emails in the event of a trigger, thus increasing the operational safety of those operations.
Other Environmental Applications
Bringing wireless technologies to BKK is a step in a new direction that can be applied to many environmental sites in the future, not just landfills. The following are a few potential applications at environmental sites:
- Groundwater chemistry monitoring
- Ambient air chemistry monitoring
- Soil monitoring
- Subterranean temperature monitoring
- Surface temperature monitoring
- Email alarms
- Data storage and management
These applications can be useful to any site that has potential contamination, including landfills, local groundwater systems, harbors and ports, and industrial sites. Aside from time and cost savings, increased safety, and increased data accuracy and management, wireless technologies have the ability to easily be modified and accept new additions to the system without the need for costly and complex data cables, and without the risk of cable damage. Lastly, the ability to easily transmit data to the internet means sites can be monitored at any time, from any location.