AUMA Actuators Limited (AUMA UK) has further expanded its successful partnerships with major UK water companies by securing a framework agreement with Southern Water. Southern Water, which delivers essential water services to 2.5 million customers and wastewater services to over 4.7 million customers across Sussex, Kent, Hampshire, and the Isle of Wight, will now benefit from AUMA’s innovative approach to the servicing, maintenance, and replacement of various actuators across its extensive region, covering nearly 4,450 square kilometers.
Michael Upcraft, Southern Water’s Framework Manager, stated: “With a 13,929-kilometre network of pipes and 205 service reservoirs, Southern Water provides a continuous supply of clean water to our customers. Our 39,808 kilometres of sewers and 3,321 pumping stations collect wastewater from our customers’ homes, businesses, and external drains. AUMA’s ability to source and supply its extensive range of high-quality, high-performance electric actuators and critical spare parts from within the EU is a significant advantage, enabling us to respond swiftly and efficiently to the needs of people and businesses across our supply region.”
The new framework agreement grants Southern Water access to AUMA’s unique ‘rapid response’ service, designed to replace both AUMA and other manufacturers’ equipment, as well as a ‘replacement in advance’ service for critical actuators.
Paul Hopkins, AUMA UK’s Managing Director, commented: “Southern Water consistently monitors its water and wastewater sites and networks, conducting maintenance and developing new infrastructure as needed. We have established a close and positive relationship with the company, securing our framework with this vital water utility. Southern Water’s role extends beyond providing essential public services; it aims to tackle the climate emergency, support its communities, and contribute to the southwest’s regional economy. We are delighted to be part of this journey.”
Southern Water seeks to enhance the availability of actuated valve operations throughout its region. The diversity in installation sizes and operational parameters requires a wide range of actuators, controls, and drive couplings to be readily available. AUMA’s broad selection of high-performance actuators, designed with a modular component approach, allows for the quick assembly of bespoke actuators tailored to specific application requirements.
In support of the new framework, AUMA is developing a dedicated Southern Water Knowledge Base, accessible 24/7/365 to all registered Southern Water engineers and technicians. This resource will include essential information, video tutorials, and technical data. Additionally, AUMA has introduced several innovations, such as using sustainable packaging to reduce environmental impact and enhancing health and safety by minimizing on-site repair times.
Furthermore, AUMA is offering comprehensive training to Southern Water’s maintenance staff through its AUMA Certified Engineering (ACE) program. Available on-site, online, or at AUMA’s training suite in Clevedon, Somerset, ACE is a structured program designed to train technicians in the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of AUMA actuators, ensuring compliance with asset management obligations and manufacturer recommendations. Accredited ACE Technicians are issued ID cards verifying their competency level.
