Challenge
The council urgently needed to address escalating non-revenue water (NRW) levels within its water distribution network. Upon investigation, it became apparent that numerous pressure management valves (PRVs) and associated devices across various sites were neglected and inoperable. This compromised the council’s ability to regulate water pressure effectively, leading to increased leakage, pipe bursts, and unnecessary water waste.
Solution
Aqua Analytics was engaged to assess and advise on the current state of the council’s pressure management infrastructure and identify enhancements to achieve an ideal future state. The project adopted a multi-phased approach:
- Comprehensive Site Assessment: Aqua Analytics conducted a thorough on-site assessment of PRVs and associated equipment across various locations within the network. This involved identifying faulty equipment, diagnosing malfunctions, and assessing the overall state of the pressure management system. This included assessing 2G devices that had not been operational for extended periods.
- Data Collection and Analysis: To gain a deeper understanding of the network's pressure profile, Aqua Analytics deployed pressure data loggers at strategic points. This data collection effort focused on areas where the council sought to establish or recommission Pressure Management Areas (PMAs). The collected data provided critical insights into pressure levels at PRV inlets and outlets, average zonal pressure (AZP), and critical pressure points (CPP).
- Repair and Recommissioning: Aqua Analytics worked closely with council personnel and equipment manufacturers to identify repair and rectification requirements. This involved obtaining costs to replace outdated components, adjusting settings, and ensuring proper functionality to regulate water pressure effectively.
- Detailed Reporting and Recommendations: A comprehensive report detailing the findings of the site assessment, data analysis, and recommended actions was prepared for the council. This report included a costed plan for returning all assets online and optimising pressure management across the network.
Results
- Improved Pressure Management: The council will regain control over their water pressure by repairing and recommissioning the neglected PRVs and associated equipment, significantly reducing the risk of leaks and bursts.
- Reduced NRW: The optimised pressure management system will substantially decrease non-revenue water, resulting in water conservation and cost savings.
- Enhanced Data Insights: Delivering pressure data loggers will provide valuable information for future network improvements, hydraulic model validation, and investment prioritisation. This data could be viewed in a central council software platform for water network operations.
Client Benefits
- Increased Network Efficiency: The project will assist in a more efficient and reliable water distribution network, ensuring consistent water pressure and supply for customers.
- Cost Savings: When recommendations are implemented, the reduction in NRW and improved asset management will translate to significant cost savings for the council.
- Proactive Maintenance: The project highlighted the importance of ongoing maintenance for pressure management equipment, enabling the council to implement a proactive approach to asset management. It was highlighted that a custodian for the PRVs should be assigned, and PRVs and DMAs should be treated as "assets" to ensure an appropriate management plan is developed and adhered to.
Conclusion
Aqua Analytics’ expertise in pressure management and data analysis was crucial in helping revitalise the council’s water infrastructure. By addressing the neglected PRVs and providing a clear roadmap for optimisation, Aqua Analytics empowered the council to achieve their NRW reduction goals and ensure a more sustainable water supply for their community. The consulting project highlighted the need for the council to take a different approach to their DMA management, ensuring that future investments are managed correctly and that appropriate resources are assigned to provide suitable maintenance and upkeep.
