Market Perception and its Response
EcosBR positions itself with several strong advantages, particularly its heavy reliance on airlift for internal water transfer, aiming for reduced maintenance and operational simplicity. Based on general market trends for SBRs and specific aspects of EcosBR's approach, here are some potential negative market perceptions and our response to these challenges:
1. Perceived Lower Pumping Efficiency of Airlift Systems:
Energy Consumption Concerns:
While EcosBR highlights overall low energy consumption through optimized aeration and "EcoSave" mode, the fundamental principle of airlift pumps is that they are generally less energy-efficient for moving large volumes of water compared to mechanical pumps. The market might perceive that relying heavily on airlift, which requires continuous air compression, could lead to higher energy bills, especially if the air compressors themselves are not optimally sized or operated. This perception might persist despite EcosBR's claims of overall system efficiency.
Limitations on Lift and Flow:
Airlift pumps have limitations in terms of the head (vertical lift) they can achieve and their flow stability compared to mechanical pumps. While EcosBR's design likely accounts for this, potential clients might worry about scalability to very large capacities or specific site conditions where higher lifts are unavoidable.
EcoTec Response:
Airlift is highly efficient in achieving very high flows at lower heads, which ecosbr relies on. Apart from operational efficiency, airlifts have no moving parts and thus require no maintenance over entire lifetime.
2. Dependence on Air Compressors:
Reliability of a Single Critical Component:
While EcosBR eliminates mechanical pumps in the treatment zone, it becomes heavily reliant on the reliability of its air compressors. A failure in the compressor system could lead to significant downtime or affect the entire treatment process. While EcosBR claims to detect and report such failures, the operational impact could be a concern.
Noise from Compressors:
Air compressors, especially larger ones, can generate significant noise. While EcosBR might use quieter models or house them appropriately, noise pollution can be a concern for STPs located in residential or sensitive areas.
EcoTec Response:
In any sewage treatment plant, failure of one component will result in plant shutdown, while in EcoSBR plants there is an intelligent preventive maintenance schedule programmed in the controller letting the plant operator/ owner know about the need for service and parts replacement much before failures can occur. When it comes to noise, the compressors chosen by Ecotec are among the most silent ones in market.
3. Initial Capital Cost (Perception vs. Reality):
Premium for "No Mechanical Parts" Feature:
While EcosBR emphasizes reduced O&M due to fewer mechanical parts, the initial capital cost might be perceived as higher by some clients, as the technology package and sophisticated automation could be more expensive upfront than very basic SBR or conventional systems from smaller, less established manufacturers. The long-term savings might not always be the primary consideration for budget-constrained clients.
EcoTec Response:
MBR technology combines conventional activated sludge treatment with a membrane filtration system (typically ultrafiltration or microfiltration membranes). The membranes act as a physical barrier, separating treated water from biomass, eliminating the need for secondary clarifiers.
4. Sludge Management Concerns (General SBR/Aerobic Systems):
Sludge Volume and Disposal:
While SBRs generally produce less sludge than some other systems, sludge generation is an inherent part of the biological treatment process. The market might have a general concern about the costs and logistical challenges of sludge dewatering and disposal, which apply to EcosBR as well, even if they claim "large sludge storage." This is a common challenge for all aerobic STPs.
Odor from Sludge:
If sludge is not managed effectively within the system or during disposal, it can lead to odor issues, which is a common negative perception for any STP.
EcoTec Response:
EcoSBR produces lesser sludge than other conventional treatment systems and thus reduces the sludge handling effort and expense. As a well designed system, EcoSBR plants also deal with odor issues more effectively than other sewage treatment systems.
5. Performance in Extreme Shock Loads/Variations (General SBR Challenge):
Maintaining Bacterial Balance:
While EcosBR states its intelligent controller can adapt to shock loads, extreme fluctuations in influent quality (e.g., highly concentrated industrial discharge mixed with domestic sewage) or very long periods of no flow (common in places like holiday homes) can still challenge the biological stability of any SBR system, including EcosBR. This can lead to temporary periods of poor effluent quality.
EcoTec Response:
The Eco-Save mode is the all on one stop solution for managing low and no inflows for up to 3 weeks period, which by itself overcomes load variation challenges faced by other treatment technologies. Any longer period of sustained no flow will need a few days of normal operation for the biology and microbial balance build back, following which the plant delivers consistent high quality treatment.
6. After-Sales Support and Spares Availability:
Geographic Reach:
While Ecotec Engineers & Consultants (EcosBR's provider) may have a good presence, for specific or niche components like specialized air compressors or proprietary control systems, the availability of immediate spare parts or highly specialized technicians in remote parts of India could be a concern for some clients. This is a common challenge for any technology provider with advanced, proprietary systems.
EcoTec Response:
IoT capabilities in each plant gives the analytical possibility for both preventive management and for repair related response in a timesaving manner. No matter where the plant is located, the operational conditions of the plant can be remotely monitored and quick remedial measures and advice are available for operators and clients.
7. Market Awareness and Competition:
Differentiation Clarity:
While EcosBR's "no mechanical pumps in treatment zone" is a clear differentiator, ensuring that the market fully understands the long-term benefits (reduced O&M, reliability) versus the initial cost or the general perception of airlift efficiency requires consistent marketing and education.
Established Competitors:
The Indian STP market is highly competitive with many established players offering various SBR and other advanced technologies. EcosBR needs to continuously demonstrate its superior value proposition against these competitors.
EcoTec Response:
EcoSBR series of plants are available with options that are usually used in conventional SBRs and are used when found effective and efficient in large plants. This approach has kept EcoTec as market leader even with tough competition in the market. Moreover the treatment achieved by EcoSBR surpass the treatment values achieved by competitors.