Summer in Australia and New Zealand presents a unique challenge for water infrastructure, particularly with increasing water main breaks. In this blog post, we delve into the reasons behind these breaks and explore practical strategies such as pipeline condition assessment, pressure transient monitoring, and active leak detection to mitigate these issues.
Active leak detection involves regularly inspecting the water distribution system to identify and repair leaks before they lead to major breaks. This proactive approach uses technologies like acoustic sensors and correlators to detect the sound of water escaping from the pipes, which also helps reduce non-revenue water and operate more efficiently.
This involves evaluating the current state of the water distribution infrastructure to prioritise maintenance and replacement. Pipeline condition assessment technologies such as Dynamic Response Imaging, electromagnetic inspection and wall thickness measurements are widely used all year round to help water authorities proactively repair, replace and rehabilitate sections of water mains at risk of failure.
Pressure transients are rapid changes in pipeline pressure caused by operations like pump startups, network operations, or large customer usage profiles. Monitoring these transients helps identify conditions that may lead to pipeline failures, allowing network calming initiatives to be initiated.
Implementing real-time pipeline monitoring systems allows for immediate detection and response to abnormal conditions in the pipeline network — such as when a burst occurs. This includes monitoring flow rates, pressure transient, and even the chemical composition of the water.
In addition to proactive measures to prevent water main breaks, having a rapid and efficient reactive response plan is crucial, especially during the challenging summer months in Australia and New Zealand. Here are some strategies to ensure a faster reactive response to such incidents:
With the challenges posed by summer conditions in Australia and New Zealand, especially with ageing infrastructure like cast iron and ductile iron pipes, adopting a proactive approach to pipeline management is essential. Techniques such as active leak detection, pipeline condition assessment, pressure transient monitoring, and real-time pipeline monitoring play a crucial role in reducing water main breaks and ensuring the reliability of water supply systems. These strategies not only enhance the efficiency of water distribution but also contribute to sustainable water management in these regions.
Aqua Analytics is a specialist provider of water network management solutions that help New Zealand and Australian water authorities reduce system losses and prevent water main breaks. Contact us today for a free consultation about how we can assist your team in managing their pipeline network today.
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