Presentation Summary of John Norton’s Presentation

John Norton’s presentation at the GBAMC event centered on the innovative practices in asset management and energy efficiency at the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA). He discussed GLWA’s role in managing a significant portion of Michigan’s water and wastewater treatment, emphasizing their status as one of the largest primary wastewater treatment facilities globally.

Norton detailed GLWA’s approach to energy management, highlighting their substantial weekly electricity and natural gas usage. He mentioned engaging with companies like Xylem at industry events to explore potential energy-saving technologies and solutions. Norton also touched upon his interest in acoustics for pipeline assessment, reflecting his broader focus on utilizing advanced technologies for infrastructure management.

He shared anecdotes and examples from his work, including efforts in acoustic monitoring to distinguish between healthy and damaged pipes. Norton described the innovative approaches GLWA is exploring for pipeline assessment, such as using electromagnetic and acoustic methods to identify and address pipeline issues proactively.

Norton also discussed collaborations with universities and industry partners in research and development projects. He emphasized the importance of these collaborations in advancing GLWA’s capabilities in asset management and infrastructure resilience. Norton’s presentation underscored the significance of continuously seeking innovative solutions and embracing new technologies in the water and wastewater sector.

Norton concluded by reiterating the importance of data-driven decision-making and the need for utilities to remain open to new technologies and approaches in asset management. His talk highlighted the intricate balance between operational efficiency, technological innovation, and the need for sustainable management practices in the water industry.

 

 

Key Points Covered

  1. GLWA Overview
    • GLWA is the largest primary wastewater treatment plant in the world, treating 40% of Michigan’s water, including Flint.
    • They manage significant water and wastewater treatment operations and face unique challenges given the scale and complexity of their infrastructure.
  2. Research and Innovations
    • Norton highlighted GLWA’s commitment to research, particularly in acoustics for pipeline assessment. Acoustics are used to detect and evaluate the condition of pipes, distinguishing between broken and live wires.
    • He emphasized the use of electromagnetic methods and the development of new acoustic techniques to improve pipeline monitoring and maintenance.
  3. Energy and Resource Management
    • GLWA uses significant amounts of electricity and natural gas weekly, necessitating innovative energy management solutions.
    • Norton discussed efforts to reduce energy costs and improve efficiency, referencing a humorous interaction with a company claiming to cut their energy costs by 50%.
  4. Pipeline Failures and Management
    • Norton shared anecdotes and data about pipeline failures, including a notable incident on Halloween, and the impacts of these failures on the community and infrastructure.
    • He discussed the use of various repair and rehabilitation techniques, including carbon fiber repairs and internal lining methods, to extend the lifespan of aging pipes.
  5. Collaborative Research Projects
    • Norton highlighted collaborative projects with universities and other organizations, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in advancing pipeline technology and management practices.
    • He mentioned specific projects with the University of Michigan and Wayne State University, focusing on pipeline integrity and management.
  6. Innovative Approaches and Future Directions
    • The presentation included a discussion on the importance of innovation in the water sector, drawing parallels to historical innovations and the necessity of embracing new technologies.
    • Norton encouraged collaboration and open-mindedness in adopting new methods for pipeline assessment and repair.
  7. Engaging and Humorous Delivery
    • Norton’s presentation style was engaging and humorous, using props like crystal glasses to illustrate points about acoustics and pipeline conditions.
    • He made several jokes and personal anecdotes to keep the audience entertained while delivering technical content.

Bio

Dr. John Norton is Director of Energy, Research, and Innovation for GLWA, a combined water/wastewater utility in Southeast Michigan. GLWA treats more than 40% of the water, and 30% of the wastewater, for the state of Michigan. Norton leads GLWA’s research efforts to understand, extend, and enhance its linear and process infrastructure and directs projects ranging from source water monitoring and distribution system water quality, through to energy extraction from biosolids. GLWA owns over 388 miles of PCCP, and over 800 miles of transmission main, 4 ft diameter or greater.