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.
