$25k to $100k Archives - Page 2 of 3

Challenge

A remote community in the Northern Territory was grappling with significant water loss within its network, impacting resource availability and operational costs. The complex network, featuring 27 kilometres of distribution mains (predominantly non-metallic) and 480 customer connections, presented unique challenges for leak detection. High minimum night flow (MNF) measurements indicated significant leakage, and a considerable portion was suspected to be caused by customer-side leaks, which are common in remote communities.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to undertake a comprehensive water loss audit and investigation program. Leveraging a tailored approach designed for non-metallic pipe networks, Aqua Analytics aimed to identify and quantify water loss, empowering the community to take targeted action. Our methodology included:

Acoustic Inspections: Our experienced technicians conducted acoustic inspections of the entire 27 km distribution network, utilising sophisticated electronic equipment.
Customer Side Leak Focus: A meticulous acoustic and visual inspection of customer water meters was performed, with follow-up investigations to confirm any suspected leaks.
Step Tests: At off-peak hours, step tests were performed to isolate specific network sections and provide additional diagnostic information on leakage and system behaviour by reviewing client SCADA.

Results

Significant Network and Customer-Side Leakage: 5 main leaks (320 L/min), 34 leaks on reticulation lines (189 L/min), and 70 customer-side leaks (419 L/min) were identified, highlighting the extent of the water loss challenge.
Missing Water Meters: The water loss audit also revealed 49 locations with missing water meters, further impacting the accuracy of water balance calculations and water loss estimation.

Client Quote: “We entrusted Aqua Analytics with monitoring several water mains during our two-week HDD project. Their daily reports gave the water utility the assurance they needed, confirming our work caused no damage. We will definitely use Aqua Analytics again in the future.”

Client Benefits

Significant Water Savings: The project identified and quantified substantial water loss, enabling the client to take corrective actions and conserve valuable water resources in a water-stressed region.
Improved Network Understanding: The comprehensive water loss audit and data analysis provided the client with a deeper understanding of their network's condition, including areas prone to leakage and problematic (or missing) water meters. This knowledge allows for more informed decision-making regarding repairs, maintenance, and future upgrades.
Actionable Recommendations: The project provided specific recommendations for addressing the identified leaks and improving water loss management practices, including a focus on customer-side leaks and regular audits. This empowers the client to implement a targeted and effective water conservation strategy.

Conclusion

This leak detection project in the Northern Territory (NT) showcases how Aqua Analytics effectively addresses substantial water loss, particularly in remote communities. By utilising advanced leak detection techniques and our skilled team, we were able to pinpoint over 100 leaks and a large number of faulty meters, enabling the client to take immediate action.

Addressing these findings will significantly reduce non-revenue water (NRW) and improve the overall water balance in the community. Aqua Analytics recommends ongoing monitoring and a proactive customer leak detection program to maintain these improvements and ensure long-term water sustainability in the NT.

Challenge

The client was tasked with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations in close proximity to critical water mains. The water utility asset owner mandated a proactive monitoring solution to prevent damage and ensure the integrity of their infrastructure throughout the construction process.

Solution

The client partnered with Aqua Analytics to implement a personalised asset monitoring system leveraging the power of Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) technology for reliable data transmission and communication. The solution included:

NB-IoT Devices: Strategically placed sensors continuously monitored the condition of the water mains, even when located 1.5 meters underground and beneath 25-millimeter steel road plates.
Automated Alerts: Daily SMS and email alerts provided the project team with real-time insights into the status of the water mains, enabling immediate response to any potential issues.
Monitoring-as-a-Service: Aqua Analytics managed every aspect of the project, from device deployment and data collection to analysis and reporting.

Results

Zero Capital Outlay: The monitoring-as-a-service model eliminated upfront costs for the client.
Fully Managed Solution: The client's project team received comprehensive reports daily, including weekends, without allocating additional resources to the monitoring process.
100% Data Reliability: The robust NB-IoT technology ensured consistent and accurate data transmission despite the challenging underground environment.
Zero Damage to Water Mains: The Aqua Analytics solution demonstrated that the HDD operations did not compromise the water mains.

Client Benefits

Risk Mitigation: Proactively addressed concerns about potential damage to critical water infrastructure.
Cost-Effectiveness: The monitoring-as-a-service model provided a comprehensive solution without requiring significant capital investment.
Peace of Mind: The client's team could focus on their core construction tasks, confident that the water mains were continuously monitored and protected.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ innovative monitoring solution allowed the client to successfully execute their HDD project while upholding the highest standards of environmental responsibility and stakeholder collaboration. This case study exemplifies the power of technology in safeguarding critical infrastructure and ensuring the smooth completion of complex construction endeavours.

Challenge

The client faced a significant challenge in managing water loss across their vast and remote network of trunk mains. These large-diameter pipelines (>DN300), often located in challenging terrains, posed difficulties in leak detection. Traditional methods were time-consuming, costly, and ineffective. The client needed a reliable, efficient, and non-invasive solution to pinpoint leaks accurately across a 150km stretch of their network.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a comprehensive leak detection program across the reticulation and trunk assets. Aqua used the TM2 Trunk Main Correlator to address the trunk’s main assets to address the trunk main assets. This advanced acoustic technology offered a personalised solution to the client’s specific challenges:

Tough Terrain and Pipe Materials: The TM2 Correlator's robustness and advanced signal processing capabilities allowed for effective leak detection on various pipe materials, including non-metallic pipes, and across challenging terrains often found in remote areas.
Advanced Leak Detection Features: The TM2's intuitive interface and advanced features, like Auto Filter, Spot Filter, and Filtered Listening, significantly improved the accuracy and speed of leak detection. These functions helped technicians quickly identify and pinpoint leaks, even amidst ambient noise and challenging acoustic conditions.
Non-Invasive and Efficient: The TM2 Correlator's non-invasive nature allowed for quick deployment and minimal disruption to the water network. The wireless communication and magnetic sensor attachments simplified the setup process, enabling efficient surveying of large areas.
Expert Analysis and Reporting: Aqua Analytics' team of experienced leak detection specialists analysed the data collected by the TM2 Correlator, providing the client with detailed reports and precise leak locations.

Results

30 Leaks Identified and Located: Across the 150km stretch of surveyed trunk mains, Aqua Analytics successfully identified and located 30 leaks of various sizes, including 2 litres per minute.
Reduced Water Loss: The timely repair of these leaks significantly reduced water loss, resulting in cost savings and improved resource management for the client.
Enhanced Network Efficiency: By addressing the identified leaks, the client could optimise the efficiency of their trunk main network, ensuring a reliable water supply to their customers.
Blind Testing: The client undertook a number of 'blind tests' to assess the solution's effectiveness and to help build confidence in the detectability of leaks across long correlation distances.

Client Benefits

Cost-Effective Leak Detection: The TM2 Correlator's non-invasive nature and efficient operation resulted in cost savings compared to traditional leak detection methods.
Minimised Disruption: The technology allowed for leak detection without disrupting the water supply and surrounding environment.
Accurate and Reliable Results: The TM2's advanced features and algorithms provided accurate and reliable leak locations, ensuring targeted repairs and minimising unnecessary excavation.
Improved Asset Management: The detailed leak data collected by the TM2 Correlator informed the client's asset management strategies, enabling proactive maintenance and repair decisions. This included providing audio files from all main sections for the client's records and comparison against any future inspections.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ successful deployment of the TM2 Trunk Main Correlator in a remote setting highlights the technology’s effectiveness in addressing the unique challenges of water loss management. The project demonstrates the value of combining cutting-edge technology with experienced personnel to achieve optimal results in reducing non-revenue water and ensuring water infrastructure sustainability. Many of the correlations were over 800 meters in distance, allowing vast network lengths to be inspected cost-effectively by a three-person team. Additionally, all leak reporting was captured spatially with GPS coordinates to assist with easily and accurately identifying defects, which is important in rural environments.

Challenge

The water operator had established District Metered Areas (DMAs) as a crucial component of their water loss management strategy. However, ensuring the effectiveness of these DMAs required verifying their hydraulic isolation from the rest of the network. The operator needed to confirm that boundary valves were fully closed and did not allow water to pass between DMAs, which could compromise their ability to monitor and manage water loss accurately. Additionally, recent water mains augmentation near the boundary had raised concerns about potential cross-connections.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a series of zero-pressure tests (ZPTs) across four adjacent DMAs. This involved a comprehensive approach to validate DMA integrity:

Zero Pressure Test Design: Aqua Analytics developed a detailed test plan, strategically selecting locations for pressure monitoring and identifying potential areas for cross-connections or valve leakage.
Nighttime Operations and Monitoring: Aqua Analytics conducted the ZPTs during nighttime hours to minimise customer disruption. Ovarro XiLog pressure monitoring IoT devices were installed at key points within the network, providing real-time data on pressure fluctuations and enabling the team to monitor network performance during the tests. The XiLog devices transmitted data at one-minute intervals via 4G, allowing for continuous monitoring and analysis by the project team. Access to the data was also provided to the client via a secure cloud server.
Boundary Valve Assessment: The tests focused on confirming the full closure of boundary valves, a critical factor in ensuring DMA isolation. Any valves found to be leaking or partially closed were addressed to maintain hydraulic independence.
Data Analysis and Reporting: Aqua Analytics analysed the collected data to assess the integrity of each DMA's hydraulic isolation. A detailed report was provided to the client, including recommendations for remedial actions, such as valve repairs or replacements.

Results

Confirmed DMA Isolation: The zero pressure tests successfully confirmed the hydraulic isolation of most of the tested DMAs, validating their effectiveness for water loss management purposes.
Identification of Undiscovered Valves: The project uncovered additional valves that were not fully isolated, allowing the client to address these issues and further improve DMA integrity. The client had a strong identification system for boundary valves and undertook these works as a priority.
Enhanced Network Understanding: The real-time pressure monitoring data provided valuable insights into the network's behaviour during the ZPTs. This ensured that the field team, at various locations at night, could all see the same data in real time.

Client Benefits

Improved DMA Performance: By verifying the hydraulic isolation of DMAs and addressing any identified issues, the client could optimise their water loss management strategies and have improved confidence in the data coming into their central event management system.
Reduced Non-Revenue Water: The project contributed to a reduction in non-revenue water, leading to cost savings and improved resource management.
Increased Operational Efficiency:The accurate assessment of DMAs allowed the client to focus their leak detection and repair efforts more effectively, maximising efficiency.
Enhanced Network Resilience: By addressing valve issues and improving DMA isolation, the client increased the resilience of their network to leaks and other disruptions.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ zero pressure testing project played a vital role in ensuring the effectiveness of the water operator’s DMA strategy. By confirming hydraulic isolation and providing actionable insights, the project empowered the client to proactively manage water loss, improve network efficiency, and ensure a reliable water supply. Clients should undertake ZPTs regularly to ensure boundary valves are not compromised by third parties or in the ordinary operation of their business.

Challenge

The council, responsible for providing water services to a population of over 40,000, was committed to reducing non-revenue water (NRW) losses below their current level of 20%. While recent leak detection efforts had been undertaken, the council sought a comprehensive review of their District Metered Areas (DMAs) and leakage reduction strategy to achieve further water savings.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a thorough assessment of the council’s water distribution network and provide actionable recommendations for improvement. The project encompassed:

DMA Configuration Assessment: A meticulous review of existing DMA setups was performed to evaluate their effectiveness in monitoring and leak detection. This involved identifying areas lacking flow metering and recommending the establishment of new DMAs.
DMA Suitability Analysis: The sizing and boundaries of existing DMAs were analysed to ensure accurate flow data capture and optimal leak detection. Recommendations for DMA restructuring were made to enhance monitoring efficiency.
Leak Detection and Monitoring Strategy Review: Current methodologies, particularly Minimum Night Flow (MNF) analysis and the existing quarterly mass balance approach were assessed. Improvements and the potential for more frequent assessments were proposed to better manage water loss.
Detailed Reporting and Recommendations: A comprehensive report outlining findings on DMA effectiveness, areas requiring additional monitoring, and the efficiency of current leak detection methods was delivered. The report also provided actionable recommendations for DMA optimisation, enhanced monitoring strategies, and improved leak detection techniques.
Data-Driven Review Using GIS: A geographic information system (GIS) was used to collate and analyse historical asset data, maps, plans, leak locations, asset repairs, and NRW efforts implemented through the years.

Deliverables

Results

Enhanced DMA Effectiveness: The council gained a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of their existing DMAs, enabling them to prioritise improvements for more accurate monitoring and leak detection.
Strategic Roadmap for Leakage Reduction: The recommendations provided a strategic roadmap for the council to reduce water loss further, encompassing short-term and long-term actions.
Increased Operational Efficiency: The proposed improvements to monitoring and leak detection strategies are expected to streamline operations and reduce costs associated with water loss.

Key Benefits

Proactive Water Management: The project empowered the council to address water loss and improve resource management proactively.
Data-Driven Decision-Making: The detailed analysis and recommendations provided a solid foundation for data-driven decision-making regarding network improvements and water conservation strategies.
Sustainable Practices: The project contributed to the council's sustainability goals and environmental stewardship by reducing water loss.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ consultancy services played a pivotal role in helping the regional council optimise its water network management. The comprehensive assessment and strategic recommendations provided a clear path towards significantly reducing water loss, ensuring a more reliable and sustainable water supply for their community.

Challenge

The council, responsible for providing water services to a large population, recognised the need to update its outdated Water Loss Management Plan (WLMP). The existing plan needs strategic direction and actionable recommendations to optimise its water network efficiency and reduce non-revenue water (NRW) volumes.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a thorough review of the council’s outdated water loss management practices and develop a comprehensive tactical plan. The project encompassed:

Data Review and Water Balance Calculations: Aqua Analytics analysed recent water supply data to update the water balance calculation for the entire system and its sub-zones. This involved addressing data discrepancies or assumptions that could be field-validated for improved accuracy.
Prioritised Action Plan: A list of sub-zone investigations and tasks was developed, including recommendations for improved metering, leak detection, real-time IoT monitoring, and data aggregation (and ultimately using a smart water software platform). This action plan focused on areas where the council could significantly reduce water loss.
Real-Time Water Balance Assessment: Aqua Analytics explored opportunities to leverage existing data for real-time water balance monitoring, enabling the council to identify and respond to water loss issues proactively.
Metering and Monitoring Recommendations: Aqua Analytics identified specific sites where additional metering and monitoring could enhance network intelligence and facilitate targeted NRW investigations.
Field Scoping and Feasibility Assessment: A detailed field scoping exercise was conducted at the identified sites, evaluating accessibility, power supply options, communication methods, and ease of installation for the recommended metering and monitoring equipment.

Deliverables

Updated Water Balance Calculations: Accurate and up-to-date water balance calculations for the entire system and individual sub-zones, providing a clear picture of current water loss levels.
Tactical Water Loss Management Plan: A comprehensive plan outlining prioritised actions, timelines, and resource requirements for reducing NRW in the short and medium term.
Feasibility Assessment Report: A detailed report assessing the feasibility of implementing additional metering and monitoring at the identified sites.

Results

Strategic Roadmap for NRW Reduction: The council received a tactical plan with actionable recommendations that served as a roadmap for achieving their water loss reduction goals.
Data-Driven Decision Making: The updated water balance calculations and real-time monitoring recommendations empowered the council to make data-driven network improvements and NRW management decisions.
Enhanced Network Efficiency: Implementing the recommended actions will improve network efficiency, reduce water loss, and save on costs.

Client Benefits

Proactive Water Loss Management: The tactical plan enabled the council to manage water loss proactively rather than reacting to crises.
Optimised Resource Allocation: Prioritising actions ensured that resources were allocated to the most impactful areas for NRW reduction.
Sustainable Practices: The council is committed to sustainable water management practices and environmental stewardship by reducing water loss.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ consulting expertise in water loss management and data analysis was pivotal in assisting the council. By providing a comprehensive tactical plan, Aqua Analytics empowered the council to address their water loss challenges effectively, leading to a more resilient and sustainable water system for their community. The prioritised list of actions and full budgetary scope will allow the council to go directly to the market to procure goods and services to implement their water loss plan in the coming years. This includes smart meters, smart devices, trunk main leak detection, and active leak detection services.

Challenge

The water utility faced a persistent problem with a troublesome water main that suffered frequent failures. This main, constructed from a combination of Cast Iron Cement-Lined (CICL) and Ductile Iron Cement-Lined (DICL) pipes, some of which had installation dates back over 100 years, was prone to leaks and breaks, causing service disruptions, costly repairs, and potential safety hazards. Traditional inspection methods were disruptive and time-consuming, making it difficult to pinpoint the root causes of the failures.

Solution

The utility engaged Aqua Analytics to conduct a non-invasive pipeline condition assessment using KenWave Dynamic Response Imaging™ (DRI) technology. DRI is an innovative acoustic method that provides detailed insights into pipeline integrity without requiring excavation or disruption to service. Aqua Analytics’ comprehensive approach includes:

Site Visit and Inspection Plan: A thorough site visit assessed the pipeline's layout, accessibility, and specific challenges. This information was used to develop a customised inspection plan, ensuring efficient and accurate data collection.
Non-Invasive Data Collection: Aqua Analytics' technicians deployed portable DRI equipment, utilising acoustic signals to assess the pipeline's condition. This non-invasive method allowed for data collection without disrupting service or requiring excavation.
Data Analysis and Reporting: The collected data was analysed using KenWave's proprietary algorithms, providing a detailed assessment of the pipeline's structural integrity, including wall thickness, stiffness, and potential defects. Aqua Analytics then provided the utility with a comprehensive report with GIS files for easy integration into their existing systems.
Exhumation and Validation: To confirm the accuracy of the DRI assessment, the utility excavated a section of the pipeline for visual inspection and validation. The results strongly validated the DRI findings, confirming the presence of the identified defects and the need for proactive maintenance.

Results

Accurate Condition Assessment: DRI technology accurately identified the underlying causes of the pipeline's frequent failures, including areas of reduced wall thickness, corrosion, and structural weaknesses.
Targeted Repairs and Replacements: Based on the DRI data, the utility could prioritise repairs and replacements, first addressing the most critical issues and preventing future failures.
Improved Asset Management: The detailed pipeline condition assessment provided valuable insights for the utility's asset management program, enabling it to develop a proactive maintenance strategy for the long-term health of its infrastructure.
Reduced Service Disruptions: By addressing the root causes of the pipeline failures, the utility minimised service disruptions and ensured a more reliable water supply for its customers.

Client Benefits

Non-Invasive and Efficient: DRI technology provided a fast, non-invasive, and efficient way to assess the pipeline's condition without disrupting service or requiring costly excavations.
Accurate and Actionable Insights: The detailed DRI assessment enabled the utility to make informed decisions regarding repairs and replacements, prioritising the most critical areas.
Improved Asset Management: The data collected through DRI helped the utility develop a proactive maintenance strategy, extending the lifespan of its infrastructure and minimising future failures.
Cost Savings: By preventing future leaks and breaks, the project contributed significant cost savings regarding repairs, water loss, and operational disruptions.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ successful implementation of KenWave DRI technology for this challenging pipeline assessment demonstrates the power of innovative solutions in addressing the complex issues of aging infrastructure. By providing accurate, actionable insights and a noninvasive approach, Aqua Analytics empowered the water utility to proactively manage its assets, reduce failures, and ensure a more reliable water supply.

Challenge

Using TaKaDu’s Central Event Management (CEM) software, the water retailer effectively monitored their District Metered Areas (DMAs) for water loss. However, the challenge lay in swiftly addressing the identified leaks to minimise non-revenue water (NRW) and maintain optimal network efficiency. They required a partner capable of rapid response and expert leak detection services.

Solution

Aqua Analytics, a trusted panel provider for the water retailer, was engaged to provide reactive leak detection and repair services. Leveraging their expertise and advanced technology, Aqua Analytics implemented the following solution:

Rapid Mobilisation: Upon receiving alerts from the TaKaDu CEM system, Aqua Analytics swiftly mobilised experienced field technicians to the affected DMAs. This rapid response ensured minimal water loss and reduced the network's impact.
Advanced Leak Detection Technology: Aqua Analytics' technicians deployed various acoustic leak detection equipment, including ground microphones, correlators, and loggers, to pinpoint leak locations accurately.
Real-Time Field Reporting: Leveraging their understanding of water networks, the technicians identified the network defects causing the leaks and provided real-time field reports to the water retailer. This enabled quick decision-making and prioritisation of repairs.
Targeted Repairs: The water retailer's maintenance teams, guided by Aqua Analytics' detailed reports, promptly addressed the identified leaks, restoring normal Minimum Night Flow (MNF) levels and reducing water loss.

Results

Rapid Response to Leak Alerts: Aqua Analytics' ability to quickly mobilise and deploy leak detection teams ensured a swift response to TaKaDu CEM alerts, minimising the duration and impact of leaks.
Accurate Leak Localisation: Advanced acoustic technology enabled precise pinpointing of leaks, reducing excavation time and costs.
Significant NRW Reduction: The combined efforts of Aqua Analytics and the water retailer resulted in a substantial reduction in non-revenue water, contributing to water conservation and cost savings.
Improved Network Efficiency: The timely repair of leaks helped maintain optimal network pressure and flow, improving overall system efficiency.

Client Benefits

Enhanced Leak Detection Capabilities: The partnership with Aqua Analytics augmented the water retailer's leak detection capabilities, providing a rapid and effective response to TaKaDu CEM alerts.
Reduced Operational Costs: Aqua Analytics helped the water retailer reduce operational costs associated with water production and distribution by minimising water loss and improving network efficiency.
Environmental Stewardship: The reduction in NRW contributed to the water retailer's commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible resource management.
Improved Customer Satisfaction: The project indirectly enhanced customer satisfaction by ensuring a reliable water supply and minimising disruptions.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ partnership with the Southeast Queensland water retailer showcases the effectiveness of combining advanced technology with expert field services. By leveraging TaKaDu’s CEM system and Aqua Analytics’ rapid response capabilities, the water retailer achieved significant reductions in water loss, improved network efficiency, and demonstrated a commitment to sustainable water management. This collaboration is a model for other water utilities seeking to optimise their leak detection and repair processes for a more resilient and efficient water network.

Challenge

Despite previous efforts by its usual service providers, the council needed to grapple with persistently high leakage levels in two District Metering Areas (DMAs). Recognising the need for a fresh approach, the council sought a performance-based engagement with a provider who could deliver measurable results and lasting improvements to its water network.

Solution

With a proven track record in water network management and leak detection and the ability to take on performance-based engagements, Aqua Analytics was selected to address the council’s challenges. The project focused on:

Targeted Leak Detection: Leveraging their extensive experience and expertise in non-metallic pipe networks, Aqua Analytics deployed a skilled team of technicians with advanced acoustic technology. They meticulously surveyed both DMAs, identifying and pinpointing 32 leaks on the network and over 20 additional leaks on private customer properties.
Data-Driven Approach: Aqua Analytics utilised a GIS-centric approach to data management, ensuring seamless integration with the council's asset management system. This allowed for efficient reporting, real-time alerts, and comprehensive tracking of leak repairs, significantly reducing leak run times.

Results

Significant Reduction in Leakage: The project substantially decreased leakage within both DMAs, achieving the lowest levels recorded for these areas.
Identification of Buried Assets: Aqua Analytics' investigations revealed many buried assets that had yet to be recently assessed, uncovering potential sources of previously undetected leaks or evidence of insufficient prior investigation.
Improved Network Efficiency: Targeted leak repairs and the implementation of network calming recommendations improved the water network's overall efficiency and resilience.
Value for Money: The council received exceptional value from the performance-based engagement, achieving results that exceeded their expectations and previous efforts by other providers.

Client Quote: “The leakage levels in these two DMAs are now the lowest we have ever seen thanks to Aqua.”

Key Benefits

Expertise and Experience: Aqua Analytics' decades of experience in water network management and leak detection, along with their commitment to innovation and best practices, proved invaluable in addressing the council's complex challenges.
Performance-Based Approach: By focusing on measurable results and outcomes, Aqua Analytics ensured the highest value for the council's investment.
GIS-Centric Reporting: The client experienced enhanced reporting via Aqua Analytics' innovative AquaLeaks Portal.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ successful partnership with this New Zealand council demonstrates the power of a performance-based, data-driven approach to leak detection and water loss management. Aqua Analytics delivered exceptional results by combining technical expertise, innovative solutions, and a commitment to client satisfaction, ensuring a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable water network for the community. The ability to lower water loss in these DMAs demonstrated to the council that alternative approaches exist to help them achieve their goals.

Challenge

The operator faced a growing concern over water loss across their diverse portfolio of water schemes, ranging from 5 to 100 kilometres. These schemes, predominantly featuring non-metallic water mains, presented unique challenges for leak detection due to sound propagation limitations and complex configurations, including “rider” mains. Additionally, customer-side leaks posed a challenge as meters weren’t read, and consumption wasn’t billed volumetrically.

Solution

Recognising the need for specialised expertise, the operator engaged Aqua Analytics to conduct a thorough water loss investigation across their various schemes. Aqua Analytics’ personalised approach involved:

Aqua Analytics deployed a team of leak detection specialists who are experienced in working with non-metallic pipe networks. They utilised specialised acoustic equipment and techniques specifically designed to overcome the challenges of sound propagation in these materials.

The project encompassed a comprehensive investigation of each water scheme, including:

Boundary Valve Assessment: Thorough inspection and testing of boundary valves to identify leaks and ensure proper isolation capabilities.
Trunk Main Leak Detection: Systematic leak detection on trunk mains using advanced acoustic technologies.
Appurtenance Inspection: Examine all accessible appurtenances, such as hydrants and valves, to identify leaks or potential failure points.
Customer Side Leak Detection: Investigation of leaks on customer properties despite the absence of volumetric billing.
Data-Driven Reporting and Recommendations: Aqua Analytics compiled detailed reports for each scheme, highlighting leak locations, estimated water loss, and recommendations for repairs or replacements. This information enabled the operator to prioritise maintenance activities and implement effective water loss reduction strategies.

Results

Over 75 Leaks Identified: Aqua Analytics successfully located and identified over 75 leaks, including major and minor ones, across the various water schemes.
Thousands of Liters Saved Daily: Repairing these leaks resulted in substantial water savings, amounting to thousands of litres per day across the network.
Reduced Operational Costs: The reduction in water loss translated into significant cost savings for the operator, primarily through lower treatment and pumping expenses.
Improved Asset Management: The detailed leak data and recommendations gave the operator valuable insights for proactive asset management and maintenance planning.

Client Benefits

Water Conservation: The project significantly reduced water loss, contributing to the operator's sustainability goals and responsible resource management. Reducing and managing water loss is a key contract requirement for this private operator, and their partnership with Aqua Analytics enables them to fulfil this obligation and exceed requirements.
Cost Efficiency: Identifying and repairing leaks resulted in substantial cost savings, enhancing the water schemes' overall financial performance.
Enhanced Network Reliability: By addressing leaks and improving asset management, the operator ensured their customers a more reliable and resilient water supply.
Expertise and Innovation: Aqua Analytics' specialised knowledge of non-metallic pipe networks and innovative leak detection techniques proved invaluable in tackling the project's unique challenges.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ comprehensive approach to water loss investigation delivered exceptional results for the private water network operator in New Zealand. By tailoring their methodology to the specific challenges of non-metallic pipes and providing a full-scale network assessment, Aqua Analytics successfully identified and addressed many leaks, resulting in substantial water savings and improved operational efficiency for the client.