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.
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:
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.”
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.
Aqua Analytics was engaged twice within six months to conduct a comprehensive water network audit and leak detection initiative in a remote Northern Territory community grappling with significant non-revenue water loss.
The project aimed to address the community’s high non-revenue water loss by:
This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of a comprehensive approach to water loss management, combining network audits, leak detection, and GIS technology to achieve significant water savings and cost reductions. Aqua Analytics’ initiative provided the remote Northern Territory community with valuable insights into their water network, enabling targeted repairs and proactive asset management, ultimately enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of their water supply system.
Due to its isolation and limited water resources, the remote community’s water infrastructure faced unique challenges. The system’s lack of redundancy meant pipe leaks or breaks could severely disrupt the water supply. The ability to quickly isolate network sections through operational valves was critical to maintaining water service and minimising waste. However, the condition of these valves was unknown, posing a potential risk to the community’s water security.
In conjunction with a pipeline condition assessment and network leak detection project, Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a comprehensive valve condition assessment throughout the remote community. The project aimed to:
Aqua Analytics utilised the 3S AIG Handheld Valve Actuator, a portable and efficient tool for safe and reliable valve exercises. The team systematically assessed 45 valves across the water network, evaluating their operability, torque requirements, and overall condition. All reporting was captured spatially for easy reporting.
Aqua Analytics’ valve condition assessment played a crucial role in bolstering the water security of this remote Northern Territory community. By addressing valve operability issues and providing actionable insights, the project enhanced the utility’s ability to respond to emergencies, minimise water loss, and ensure a reliable water supply for its residents into the future.
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