The Pressure Pipe Inspection Co., Ltd. (PPIC) announced that it has signed a long-term contract with Maynilad Water Services, Ltd. (based in the Philippines) to reduce water loss and to help the utility achieve its water sustainability target.
Since 2007, Maynilad Water Services has reduced its non-revenue water from 66% to 59% through a water loss management program. For every 1% reduction, the utility said it saves more than 6 million gal of water a day. This water is then allocated to areas that are in need of additional supply.
Sahara leak detection technology will be used to inspect long distances of aging metallic water mains. Maynilad Water Services will now be able to increase its leak detection efforts without disrupting water delivery services to its customers, the company said.
"This project demonstrates Maynilad Water Services’ strong commitment to ensuring sustainable water supplies for its customers and we are proud to have been selected as their technology partner,” said Dr. Brian Mergelas, president and CEO of PPIC. “Utilities have recognized tremendous rates of return with long-term Sahara programs. Water loss is not only a waste of a precious resource, but it greatly impacts the bottom line.”
A large percentage of the world’s water pipelines were installed in three key time periods: the 1800s, early 1900s and post-1945. Each of these corresponds with a significant growth in population. Due to a number of causes including inadequate design, improper installation and years of service, these pipes have started to fail; it is a problem that will only become more severe over time, the company said.
"Utilities are discovering that the aging water infrastructure crisis can be managed by understanding the true condition of their underground assets,” Mergelas said. “Annual inspection programs are a small investment compared to the cost of replacing an entire pipeline or dealing with unexpected ruptures.”
