Aqua Analytics uses non-invasive, non-disruptive Tonal Pipe Assessment™ (TPA) from KenWave Solutions to conduct water pipe condition assessments. This acoustic pipeline assessment technology is designed for use on in-service pipes of all standard materials and diameters. Tonal Pipe Assessment technology will provide detailed, reliable condition assessment and leakage information, including average wall thickness and strength for discrete pipe segments.

Our pipeline assessment technologies operate without disruption to your regular network operations and pose no risk of damage to the asset. The device is installed on the pipeline during normal operating conditions, and data measurements are collected for analysis by expert engineers.

KenWave’s TPA represents the next evolution of leak noise correlators with improved sensor sensitivity and the ability to collect multiple data types simultaneously, all with a focus on safety and ease of use. For example, our ultra-sensitive hydrophones sit behind an acoustically transparent impermeable high-pressure membrane, so that they never have to enter the fluid column.

Being an external tool, TPA can be attached to various fittings to inspect almost any water main or sewer rising main. Where fittings or valves are not available, both sound source and sensors can be attached directly to the pipe surface through small vacuum excavations on the pipeline.

Unlike acoustic leak detection, which relies on leaks or flowing hydrants for a sound source, TPA uses a tuneable valve box or sonar introduced test signals. These introduced signals are specific to each diameter and material combination, without any risk of introducing water hammer to determine pipeline condition.

A physics-based acoustic model of pipes using ground propagation, dynamic loading, and impedance effects gathers and analyses the sensor data. Special post-processing processes are used to handle spurious noises such as those from vehicle traffic.

Lastly, a thermodilatohydrometer or THD, uniquely allows TPA to correct for the effect of changes in water temperature, pressure, and dissolved gas content on the acoustic dispersion curve.

First, we develop a multi-parameter acoustic model for the pipe to which we are inspecting. Test signals are then computed and introduced via the TPA sound source. These introduced signals are then measured downstream by the TPA sensors.

We then use the TPA technology to compare the models with the measurements and deduce wall properties and anomaly locations. Results are then validated, and the TPA database and modelling algorithms are updated to make the next inspection more accurate. This improved accuracy has immense benefits when conducting water pipe condition assessments. We can track this data over time and determine the best possible solutions for the water pipe network.

During most pipeline condition assessment projects, we also simultaneously collect pressure transient data using devices from Syrinix.

Our non-invasive TPA technology can be used to inspect pipes that transfer potable water, wastewater, process water, hot water, chilled water, or glycol. The TPA technology is also designed for studying non-metallic and plastic pipes (including Asbestos Cement, PVC, MDPE, HDPE and GRP).

We also utilise the TPA technology for large-scale asbestos cement assessment projects when a water utility has a large proportion of AC mains and needs to prioritise its renewals and investments. Many cities and towns in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and Hong Kong face a problem with their ageing asbestos cement and metallic pipelines, with billions of dollars in renewals required over the next five decades.

Aqua Analytics can also inspect mixed material pipes, such as when a small section has been repaired with ductile iron or PVC. The following table summarises the pipes which TPA can examine and the type of data it provides.

Cities and towns around Australia, New Zealand and Asia are facing an ageing pipeline infrastructure crisis. Disruptive pressurised water and wastewater main breaks all stem from severe underinvestment over recent decades. At the same time, many small and medium-sized water utilities do not have the financial capacity to upgrade significant amounts of their network.

Aqua Analytics utilise state of the art TPA technology to conduct non-invasive pipeline condition assessments. With our leak detection technology, we can find what needs fixing or replacing and identify what is in good shape, so it stays in the ground. This approach identifies the specific sections of the pipeline that are at risk of failure, so proactive repair works can be undertaken before it results in a significant water main failure.

The assessment data we collect assists with pipeline asset management and renewal planning to ensure a sensible risk management approach to capital investments. At Aqua Analytics, we can use granular pipeline condition data to make better decisions about asset replacements and rehabilitation, ensuring pipelines with residual remaining useful life are not prematurely replaced.

The Aqua Analytics technicians are passionate about providing water pipe condition assessment services. Our technology driven approach provides significant insights into the state of your pipe network for informed asset management. Whether you are looking for assistance on a long- or short-term project regarding water pipe assessment, monitoring, or management, Aqua Analytics will deliver the best solutions.

Aqua Analytics have inspected over 150,000 kilometres of active water mains and apply more than 20 years of industry experience when conducting pipeline assessments. Our skilled technicians conduct advanced evaluations and collect data about aspects of a pipeline that others miss. Technology-driven evaluations aren’t conducted sitting behind a computer. We go on-site to collect ‘ground truth’ information, so we can make the most informed decisions.

If you want to discuss our non-invasive and non-disruptive technology to assess the conditions of your pipelines, or your overall asset management goals, please contact us today.