District Metered Areas Archives

Challenge

The water operator had established District Metered Areas (DMAs) as a crucial component of their water loss management strategy. However, ensuring the effectiveness of these DMAs required verifying their hydraulic isolation from the rest of the network. The operator needed to confirm that boundary valves were fully closed and did not allow water to pass between DMAs, which could compromise their ability to monitor and manage water loss accurately. Additionally, recent water mains augmentation near the boundary had raised concerns about potential cross-connections.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a series of zero-pressure tests (ZPTs) across four adjacent DMAs. This involved a comprehensive approach to validate DMA integrity:

Zero Pressure Test Design: Aqua Analytics developed a detailed test plan, strategically selecting locations for pressure monitoring and identifying potential areas for cross-connections or valve leakage.
Nighttime Operations and Monitoring: Aqua Analytics conducted the ZPTs during nighttime hours to minimise customer disruption. Ovarro XiLog pressure monitoring IoT devices were installed at key points within the network, providing real-time data on pressure fluctuations and enabling the team to monitor network performance during the tests. The XiLog devices transmitted data at one-minute intervals via 4G, allowing for continuous monitoring and analysis by the project team. Access to the data was also provided to the client via a secure cloud server.
Boundary Valve Assessment: The tests focused on confirming the full closure of boundary valves, a critical factor in ensuring DMA isolation. Any valves found to be leaking or partially closed were addressed to maintain hydraulic independence.
Data Analysis and Reporting: Aqua Analytics analysed the collected data to assess the integrity of each DMA's hydraulic isolation. A detailed report was provided to the client, including recommendations for remedial actions, such as valve repairs or replacements.

Results

Confirmed DMA Isolation: The zero pressure tests successfully confirmed the hydraulic isolation of most of the tested DMAs, validating their effectiveness for water loss management purposes.
Identification of Undiscovered Valves: The project uncovered additional valves that were not fully isolated, allowing the client to address these issues and further improve DMA integrity. The client had a strong identification system for boundary valves and undertook these works as a priority.
Enhanced Network Understanding: The real-time pressure monitoring data provided valuable insights into the network's behaviour during the ZPTs. This ensured that the field team, at various locations at night, could all see the same data in real time.

Client Benefits

Improved DMA Performance: By verifying the hydraulic isolation of DMAs and addressing any identified issues, the client could optimise their water loss management strategies and have improved confidence in the data coming into their central event management system.
Reduced Non-Revenue Water: The project contributed to a reduction in non-revenue water, leading to cost savings and improved resource management.
Increased Operational Efficiency:The accurate assessment of DMAs allowed the client to focus their leak detection and repair efforts more effectively, maximising efficiency.
Enhanced Network Resilience: By addressing valve issues and improving DMA isolation, the client increased the resilience of their network to leaks and other disruptions.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ zero pressure testing project played a vital role in ensuring the effectiveness of the water operator’s DMA strategy. By confirming hydraulic isolation and providing actionable insights, the project empowered the client to proactively manage water loss, improve network efficiency, and ensure a reliable water supply. Clients should undertake ZPTs regularly to ensure boundary valves are not compromised by third parties or in the ordinary operation of their business.

Challenge

A holiday park operator faced escalating water bills across their extensive network of properties. The unique nature of these sites, often resembling mini-cities with complex infrastructure, made identifying and addressing water loss a significant challenge. The company sought a partner to conduct comprehensive water audits and leak investigations to reduce consumption and costs.

Solution

Aqua Analytics was engaged in a long-term assignment to tackle the water loss issue. Leveraging a multi-disciplinary approach, Aqua Analytics deployed a team of skilled technicians, plumbers, and data analysts to undertake:

Comprehensive Water Audits: Detailed water audits were conducted at each holiday park, encompassing a thorough review of historical water consumption data, analysis of billing information, and site-specific assessments of infrastructure and usage patterns.
Targeted Leak Detection: Aqua Analytics' technicians utilised advanced leak detection technologies, including acoustic listening devices and correlation logging, to pinpoint visible and hidden leaks within the complex network of pipes and fixtures.
Data-Driven Analysis: The collected data was analysed to identify trends, anomalies, and potential areas for improvement in water management practices. This analysis provided actionable insights for the client to implement targeted solutions.
Repairs and Recommendations: Aqua Analytics identified leaks, worked with the client to implement repairs, and provided recommendations for long-term water conservation strategies.

Results

Significant Reduction in Water Consumption: Aqua Analytics' efforts led to a substantial decrease in water consumption across the network of holiday parks, resulting in considerable cost savings for the client.
Identification of Major Leaks: Multiple large, below-ground leaks were discovered, some of which had contributed to significant water loss for extended periods.
Improved Asset Management: The detailed audits and investigations gave the client a better understanding of their water infrastructure, enabling them to prioritise maintenance and upgrades for optimal efficiency.
Sustainable Practices: By reducing water waste, the project contributed to the client's sustainability goals and demonstrated their commitment to responsible resource management.

Client Benefits

Financial Savings: The substantial reduction in water consumption translated into immediate and ongoing cost savings for the client.
Operational Efficiency: Aqua Analytics improved the holiday parks' overall operational efficiency by addressing leaks and optimising water management practices.
Environmental Stewardship: The project's focus on water conservation aligned with the client's commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability.
Peace of Mind: The client gained peace of mind knowing that their water infrastructure was being proactively managed and maintained by a team of experts.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ comprehensive approach to water audits and leak detection proved invaluable for the holiday park operator. By combining technical expertise, advanced technology, and data-driven analysis, Aqua Analytics delivered significant water savings and improved the overall sustainability of the client’s operations. This project is a model for other businesses with complex water networks seeking to optimise their water management practices and reduce costs.