Challenge
The owner of a wastewater treatment plant faced a critical challenge with their aging effluent outfall pipeline.
Two previous failures in 2013 had resulted in effluent spills into a nearby bay, raising environmental concerns and highlighting the need for proactive pipeline management.
The pipeline, constructed in the early 1980s and comprised of a mix of DICL, AC, and HDPE pipes, was potentially susceptible to further leaks and failures.
Solution
To assess the pipeline’s condition and identify potential leak points, Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct an inline inspection using the free-swimming AquaSphere technology.
This innovative tool is specifically designed for leak and gas pocket detection in pressurised pipelines. It provides valuable insights into the pipeline’s integrity without requiring disruptive excavations.
The inspection methodology included:
- Comprehensive Pre-Mobilisation Planning: Aqua Analytics conducted extensive pre-mobilisation planning, including a detailed review of pipeline schematics, historical data, and site-specific conditions. This ensured efficient execution and minimised potential disruptions during the inspection.
- Pipeline Preparation: The pipeline was prepared for the inspection, ensuring proper access and flow conditions for the AquaSphere device.
- AquaSphere Deployment: The free-swimming AquaSphere was inserted into the pipeline and propelled by the flow of effluent.
- Data Acquisition: As the AquaSphere traveled through the pipeline, it continuously collected acoustic data, detecting and locating leaks and gas pockets.
- Data Analysis and Reporting: The collected data was analyzed to pinpoint the exact location and size of any leaks or anomalies. A comprehensive report was provided to the client, detailing the findings and recommendations for remediation.
Measureable Outcomes
- Comprehensive Leak Detection: The AquaSphere did not locate any leaks, but the methodology and data collective gives confidence to the asset owner that the pipeline is leak-free.
- Preventive Maintenance: The AquaSphere located several gas pockets cross the pipeline length, which invervention will assist with mitigating the risk of future failures and environmental damage.
- Improved Asset Management: The data collected through the AquaSphere inspection provided valuable insights into the pipeline's condition, supporting informed asset management decisions and extending its operational lifespan.
- Enhanced Environmental Stewardship: By proactively identifying and addressing leaks, the client demonstrated a commitment to environmental stewardship, minimising the risk of future spills and protecting the surrounding ecosystem.
Conclusion
By utilising AquaSphere technology, Aqua Analytics provided the client with a comprehensive understanding of the condition of their wastewater outfall pipeline.
The proactive leak detection and assessment enabled the client to address potential issues before they escalated, preventing further environmental damage and ensuring the long-term integrity of their critical infrastructure.
This case study demonstrates the value of advanced technologies like AquaSphere in managing ageing pipeline infrastructure.
Water utilities and other organisations can minimise risks, reduce costs, and safeguard the environment by investing in proactive inspections with proven techniques.
