The Challenge
The water utility faced the ongoing challenge of managing pressure transients within its vast water distribution network. These transient events can lead to pipe bursts, leaks, and infrastructure damage, impacting service reliability and operational costs. To proactively address this issue, the utility sought a comprehensive solution providing real-time insights and actionable data.
The Solution
Aqua Analytics was engaged to design, implement, and manage a pressure transient monitoring project leveraging the Syrinix PIPEMINDER-ONE technology and the RADAR cloud-based data analysis platform. Aqua Analytics’ turnkey approach included:
- Strategic Deployment: Aqua Analytics utilised a proprietary deployment simulation tool, incorporating the utility's GIS data, to identify optimal installation locations for maximum coverage and impact. This strategic approach prioritised areas with larger diameter assets, facilities, and historically problematic zones.
- Advanced Monitoring Technology: Aqua Analytics deployed Syrinix PIPEMINDER-ONE sensors, capable of capturing high-resolution pressure data and precisely detecting transient events.
- Real-Time Data Analysis: The RADAR platform provided real-time access to data, enabling rapid identification, classification, and source location of pressure transients. Machine learning algorithms automatically categorised events like sharp pressure drops, potential pump stops, and negative pressures.
- Actionable Insights: Aqua Analytics went beyond raw data analysis, providing the utility with clear, actionable insights to address the root causes of transient events and implement mitigation strategies. This included identifying operational issues, optimising pump schedules, and prioritising maintenance activities.
- Continuous Monitoring and Maintenance: Aqua Analytics managed all aspects of the project, including equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and reporting, ensuring continuous data reliability and system performance.
Results
- Enhanced Understanding of Network Dynamics: The utility gained a deeper understanding of pressure transients within their network, identifying patterns, trends, and high-risk areas.
- Proactive Issue Resolution: Real-time alerts and actionable insights enabled the utility to respond quickly to transient events, preventing potential damage and minimising service disruptions.
- Improved Operational Efficiency: By addressing the root causes of transient events, the utility optimised pump operations, reduced energy consumption, and improved overall network efficiency.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Aqua Analytics' comprehensive data collection and analysis informed long-term asset management strategies, ensuring optimal resource allocation and risk mitigation.
Client Benefits
- Reduced Risk of Pipe Bursts and Leaks: Proactive monitoring and mitigation strategies significantly reduced the likelihood of infrastructure damage caused by pressure transients.
- Improved Service Reliability: By addressing operational issues and promptly responding to transient events, the utility enhanced the reliability and consistency of water service for their customers.
- Cost Savings: Reduced water loss, optimised pump operations, and proactive maintenance contributed to significant cost savings for the utility.
- Turnkey Solution: Aqua Analytics' comprehensive approach, from design and installation to data analysis and reporting, provided a seamless and efficient solution for the utility.
Conclusion
This project demonstrates the value of a holistic, data-driven approach to pressure transient management. By partnering with Aqua Analytics, the New Zealand water utility successfully implemented a proactive monitoring solution that identified and mitigated transient events and provided valuable insights to optimise their overall network operations.
