A burst on a wastewater network and the impact of any subsequent pollution is a problem with a significant consequence for both customers and the environment.

These bursts can often go undetected for significant time periods and when finally found result in substantial pollution with heavy costs to clean up.

In response to this, Syrinix has developed PIPEMINDER specifically for wastewater rising mains and added to its monitoring portfolio, a robust data logger and sensor, plus a series of helpful analytical tools within RADAR (cloud data platform) which allow for an informed programme of performance management.

Sensor placement of PIPEMINDER-ONE on a rising main wastewater network

How it works

PIPEMINDER is deployed at a pumping station outlet, collecting data at 128 samples per second to provide one-minute summary data that is sent to RADAR for analysis and to provide an overall aggregated view of the rising main's operation and performance.

The data is sent to RADAR, where it is analysed against pre-set performance parameters to determine the current operating state.

This process enables the identification of asset issues such as blockages, sticking/passing non-return valves, worn pumps, and burst mains.

 

 

A burst alarm

An automated alarm on the identification of a burst main is sent directly to the utility operational control centre so a response can be planned and prioritised.

RADAR burst alert screen
RADAR burst alert notification

Performance Monitoring

A range of other performance 'alerts' are also available to the utility, that identifies a range of inefficiencies within the system, including poor-performing pumps, or non-return valves passing which all result in increased energy costs.

These alerts can be fed to the maintenance team to act upon, in order to keep the system working optimally.

Successful trials of this method of operation have led to a roll-out within 'business as usual' operations within a UK utility that has made performance monitoring its primary focus.

Graph of a rising main burst alarm
Graph showing Burst Alarm on RADAR cloud data platform

Savings realised

In May 2019 early detection of a burst rising main at Anglian Water in the east of England, meant a repair bill of £1,100 as opposed to the £24,000 repair bill received 6 months earlier, prior to the monitoring and the burst alarm implementation.

This allowed Anglian Water to minimize the impact on the environment, whilst lessening customer impact and negating any negative publicity.

Could your utility benefit from increased visibility on rising mains? Talk to us and arrange a conversation

Burst rising main wastewater pipe
Burst rising main pipeline

This new level of monitoring has allowed us to deploy strategies aimed at extending the life of the rising main (such as soft starts on pumps and improved air valve maintenance) of which early results suggest will allow for the deferral of capital investment due to extending asset life.
Rebecca Harrison - Optimisation Strategy Manager - Water Recycling, Anglian Water

Rising main monitoring articles

WIPAC logo

WIPAC Webinar

View how Syrinix saved Anglian Water £24,000 developing an early burst notification alert for rising mains

Read more