AWWA ACE65198

One of the fundamental activities of an effective Water Loss Control Strategy is ActiveLeakage Control. Typically this involves two steps, first the use of acoustic noisedetection equipment to identify potential leak areas, then noise correlators andgeophones are used to pinpoint the leak position prior to sending out watermain repairscrews. The City of Ottawa's Drinking Water Services staff has recently developed andimplemented an innovative mapping system to graphically present the recorded noiselevels within its 2,700 km (1674 mi) water distribution system. Data collectedthematically mapped based on leak noise intensity measured within distinct zones in thewater system. Using visual analysis, the noise maps are used to prioritize areas wherethe probability of leaks is highest based on noise clusters. Pinpointing is then focusedon these areas to achieve greater success in locating leak positions. This approach will result in the decrease in the leak run time and increase the confidencelevel of each initiated repair by reducing the number of costly "dry hole" excavations. Toensure the area is leak free, a post survey is completed after the repair to ensure theelimination of the noise cluster. Field data is presented, highlighting the success ofthis iterative and live process for both day and night leak surveys. Lessons learned andrecommended practices are shared to assist other municipalities who are embarkingon an Active Leakage Control Program. Includes tables, figures.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. - No.

Published:

06/01/2007

Number of Pages:

42

File Size:

1 file , 1.9 MB