Challenge
A major metropolitan water utility suspected significant apparent water loss due to an illegal or unmetered connection on a transmission main.
The challenge was locating the precise source of the unmetered usage without disrupting the critical supply and traversing long sections of the pipeline where direct visual inspection was impossible.
There was limited access across the pipeline length, and the use of our TM3 Trunk Main Correlator allowed devices to be deployed at 440 meter spacings to detect the sourec of the illegal connection.
Solution: AqusScan TM3 Trunk Main Correlator
Aqua Analytics utilised the AQUASCAN TM3 Trunk Main Correlator, a highly sensitive acoustic correlator, to acoustically pinpoint the source of the water draw.
While primarily used for real loss (leak) detection, the sound created by significant, continuous flow through an illegal tap-off point can also be detected and correlated, providing a non-invasive solution to this unique apparent loss challenge.
- Acoustic Scanning: Correlator sensors were strategically placed along the trunk main to listen for any continuous, high-volume flow noise outside of typical leak signatures.
- Correlation Analysis: The TM3's high-fidelity processing was used to isolate the unique acoustic profile of the illegal connection from ambient noise and normal flow, allowing for highly accurate correlation.
- GPS Pinpointing: The location was pinpointed using the correlator and verified with ground microphones, providing exact GPS coordinates for the utility's investigation team.
- Verification Reporting: A detailed report was provided confirming the acoustic signature and the precise spatial location of the unauthorised draw-off point.
Measurable Outcomes
Apparent Loss Elimination: Successfully located the source of the unmetered water consumption, leading to the immediate recovery of lost revenue. Furthermore, the nature of the connection was such that real loss was also occuring at the same location.
Non-Invasive Solution: Achieved location accuracy without resorting to costly or disruptive excavation along the trunk main route, which was restricted considerably by foliage and bushland across its length.
High-Tech Application: Demonstrated the versatile application of trunk main correlator technology beyond traditional leak detection, and how it has applications as both a proactive survey technology and reactive leak detection technology for such situations.
Revenue Protection: Provided the client with a tool and methodology to protect their revenue stream from illegal connections and unmetered flow.
Conclusion
The successful deployment of the AQUASCAN TM3 Trunk Main Correlator showcases the versatility of non-invasive leak detection technology.
This project demonstrated that specialised acoustic equipment can accurately pinpoint sources of apparent loss, such as illegal connections, providing a vital tool for revenue protection. By utilising TM3 on critical trunk mains, utilities can enhance overall network integrity and conduct essential pipe inspections and assessments without resorting to costly, disruptive methods.
Aqua Analytics empowers utilities to manage both real and apparent water loss efficiently, ensuring the security and financial sustainability of their most significant assets.
