The Technology Behind HYDROS Remote Monitoring

An inside look at the systems, sensors and analytics that support reliable sewage treatment in any environment.

Remote monitoring is now recognised as a critical element of modern sewage treatment, improving reliability, transparency and operational consistency. HYDROS incorporates automated sensing, analysis and remote access to provide continuous oversight, which supports environmental compliance and stable treatment performance in varying conditions.

In our last article, we unpacked Why Remote Monitoring is the Game-Changer in Modern Sewage Treatment Systems. In this article, we dive into how HYDROS remote monitoring actually works, and how each component contributes to reliable, long-term operations and compliance.

1. The Sensor Network That Collects System Information

HYDROS uses a network of intelligent sensors to collect information from multiple stages of the sewage treatment process. These sensors monitor mechanical activity, water quality, environmental conditions and flow patterns. Data is collected either continuously or at scheduled intervals and is then uploaded to the cloud.

Sensors include:

• Dissolved oxygen monitoring

• pH measurement

• Turbidity and suspended solids analysis

• Flow metering for real-time and daily totals

• Temperature monitoring

• Pump and blower feedback

• CCTV for operational visibility

Each parameter provides insight into how the system is functioning. Together, they present a comprehensive view of treatment conditions, helping identify irregularities well before they impact compliance or performance.

2. WATCHDOG: Mechanical Monitoring in Real Time

WATCHDOG is the monitoring component that oversees mechanical operation within HYDROS. It tracks activity across pumps, blowers and automated valves, while also identifying flow variations that may indicate blockages or developing issues.

WATCHDOG observes:

• Pump efficiency and loading

• Blower operation

• Valve sequencing

• Flow stability

• CCTV-supported condition verification

• Changes from expected operating behaviour

When a mechanical irregularity occurs, WATCHDOG alerts operators and can activate protective functions to maintain continuity. This immediate feedback supports operational consistency and helps prevent unplanned disruptions.

3. ROBOLAB: Automated Water Quality Testing

ROBOLAB is an automated water quality laboratory integrated into the HYDROS system. It supports biological stability by performing routine analysis without requiring specialist attendance.

ROBOLAB automatically measures:

• Ammonia

• Nitrate and nitrite

• Beneficial bacteria volume and activity

• Turbidity and suspended solids

• Treated water clarity

• Daily flow profiles

These measurements provide direct insight into the biological processes that drive sewage treatment. If values begin trending away from expected ranges, ROBOLAB highlights the change early, enabling timely adjustments.

4. Cloud-Based Data Storage and System Visibility

All data from WATCHDOG, ROBOLAB and the sensor network is uploaded to a secure cloud-based platform. This ensures operators and Aubin engineers can review information at any time, regardless of system location.

The platform provides:

1. Real-time dashboards showing system status

2. Tracking of historical trends

3. Validation of readings against expected ranges

4. Long-term reporting for council and regulatory requirements

5. Visibility of mechanical and biological activity

Cloud visibility supports consistent operations and allows both site teams and engineers to make informed decisions based on accurate, up-to-date information.

5. Automated Alerts and Predictive Servicing

If monitoring identifies a condition outside expected parameters, HYDROS issues automated alerts via email or SMS. These alerts can be configured for both site representatives and Aubin engineers.

Examples of standard alerts include:

• Pump malfunction

• Blower irregularities

• Flow abnormalities

• Water quality outside target conditions

• Any customised site-specific alert settings

To help maintain continuity, HYDROS activates a standby pump if the primary pump fails. This provides operators with adequate time to replace the component.

All components are designed for plug-and-play replacement, which simplifies servicing and supports timely maintenance. ROBOLAB also maintains a live maintenance schedule to help keep routine tasks on track.

6. Remote Support and System Adjustments

Aubin engineers can securely access HYDROS remotely to provide operational guidance.

Through this access, engineers can:

• View current sensor data

• Observe system activity through CCTV

• Adjust pump schedules

• Modify aeration settings

• Analyse biological trends

• Assist teams with troubleshooting

This capability reflects Aubin Environmental’s commitment to ongoing support and ensures operators are never required to manage challenges alone.

7. Supporting Compliance Through Continuous Monitoring

Meeting environmental and council requirements relies on consistent treatment outcomes.

Remote monitoring strengthens compliance by:

• Tracking key water quality parameters continuously

• Providing detailed information for regulatory reporting

• Offering early warning before conditions change significantly

• Maintaining visibility during peak usage periods.

• Supporting stable treatment under variable loading

Continuous oversight reduces operational risk and helps maintain reliable performance in diverse environments.

Bringing the Technology Together

HYDROS remote monitoring combines sensing, automated analysis and cloud-based visibility to create a clear, reliable picture of system behaviour at all times. WATCHDOG oversees mechanical activity, ROBOLAB provides ongoing water quality analysis, and the cloud platform offers transparent access to system information from any location. Together, these components support consistent sewage treatment performance and help maintain compliance in a wide range of operating conditions.

Remote access also allows Aubin engineers to review conditions, interpret trends and provide specific guidance when needed. This level of support strengthens day-to-day operations and helps ensure that each HYDROS system continues to perform as designed, regardless of location or seasonal demand.