Water distribution systems can experience high levels of leakage (water loss) resulting in major financial, supply and pressure losses. Leakage occurs in different components of the water system including transmission and distribution mains, service connection lines, valves, joints, and fire hydrants. It can originate from many sources such as a the deterioration of aging pipes and fittings, material defect, changes in water pressure (waterhammer), high population density, heavy traffic volumes, movement of above ground pipelines, aggressive soil conditions, and corrosion. Excessive leakage can also cause contaminant intrusion events, which can lead to detrimental or fatal water quality episodes.

InfoWater LDM is a powerful and practical tool to identify all leaks in the distribution system and meet federal water conservation mandates. It uses the industry standard step-test network modeling method that narrows down leaks to specific pipe sections of the distribution system. This technique involves bracketing an area with excessive leakage into a tight zone (step-test area) with a flow meter installed on the input main to each zone. Working from the farthest valve (away from the meter), the size of the zone is systematically reduced by closing valves to cut off different pipe sections in succession (so that less and less of the test area is supplied through the meter), at the same time recording changes in flow rate at the meter. The sequence of closing valves is followed until the flow meter is reached (when the flow becomes zero). A significant drop in flow rate indicates a leak in the section of pipe that was last shut off. The sequence is repeated by opening valves in reverse order. Step-testing is normally carried out at night before the morning high demand to minimize supply interruption and reduce inconvenience to customers.

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InfoWater LDM will help you: