City deploys permanent leak detection to keep aging assets in check 

Problem: 

The Environmental Utilities department in Medicine Hat, Alberta, wanted to move from reactive leak detection to a proactive solution that would be reliable and noninvasive and offer permanent live monitoring.

Solution: 

The utility chose Echologics EchoShore-DX, a permanent leak- monitoring platform that uses acoustic sensors and processing algorithms to detect and pinpoint the source of faint noises emitted by pipeline leaks. Battery-powered monitoring nodes are built into fire hydrant pumper nozzle caps. The acoustic nodes are linked using a wireless network that allows rapid deployment of the platform and a quick search for leaks upon system activation. Medicine Hat opted for the Leak Operations Center that monitors and notifies the utility when a leak is detected. Almost immediately, the LOC detected three acoustic leak locations. Two of the three were confirmed leaks, but the third location turned out to be an anomaly that demonstrated the sensitivity and accuracy of the technology. Upon field inspection, it was determined that a pressure zone boundary valve was partially open, causing a pressure leak. Closing the valve eliminated the leak and decreased pumping and energy waste.

Result: 

Medicine Hat plans to expand its current leak detection coverage to include their entire metallic and asbestos cement water distribution pipe assets over the next three years. 866-324-6564; www.echologics.com.

---

Leak detection system saves money for Texas school  

Problem: 

A leak beneath Anna Middle School in Anna, Texas, caused water to surface in the parking lot. The problem presented potentially costly demolition and repairs.  

Solution: 

The school called Spencer Plumbing, and a technician used a Gen-Ear LE water leak detection system from General Pipe Cleaners/General Wire Spring. Compact and lightweight, the unit uses an advanced acoustical leak detection system to quickly and accurately locate leaks in cast iron, copper, steel and PVC lines. The equipment quickly found two distinct problems. “We fixed the small inside leak without major disruption,” says Bryan Spencer, owner of Spencer Plumbing. He then showed how the serious outside leak actually channeled water down a ditch to where it was surfacing in the parking lot.   

Result: 

“We pinpointed problems so clearly and quickly that the customer saved thousands in unnecessary demolition and repair work,” Spencer says. And the new equipment’s learning curve proved surprisingly short. “Once we learned to identify different types of leak sounds, we began using the system immediately.” 800-245-6200; www.drainbrain.com.