Echologics, a developer and provider of acoustic-based technologies for water loss management, leak detection and pipe condition assessment, has secured a one-year service agreement with Las Vegas Valley Water District (LVVWD). The agreement enables LVVWD to readily utilize Echologics' leak detection and condition assessment services for one year with the option to renew the agreement for up to five years. LVVWD is a not-for-profit agency that provides water to more than one million people in southern Nevada.
The agreement between LVVWD and Echologics is the result of a successful pipe condition assessment pilot project, completed in the fall of 2011. The pilot included non-invasive testing of a 6.5-mile span of 16 in. to 24 in. mortar-lined steel cylinder pipe that runs underneath some of Las Vegas' most popular thoroughfares. Prior to the pilot project, LVVWD expected that it would have to replace the entire span of pipe; however, the acoustic survey found that only 15% to 20% of the pipes in the assessed area had lost a significant amount (more than 15%) of their original wall thickness to corrosion and other factors.
"Leaks and pipe deterioration have always been a significant concern for us, because they are responsible for loosing treated water--a precious resource that we must conserve, especially since southern Nevada is currently facing the worst drought on record," said Ryan Benner, maintenance engineer, LVVWD. "Our proactive approach to mitigating leaks and assessing the structural condition of pipes in our water system will help us to continue improving water conservation without disturbing surrounding infrastructure."
"The Las Vegas Valley Water District understands the value of proactive, ongoing leak detection and pipe condition assessment as it relates to improving water conservation," said Marc Bracken, vice president and general manager for Echologics. "Fortunately, Echologics' leak detection and pipe condition assessment processes are based on acoustics and do not require excavation. Therefore, LVVWD will be able to help improve conservation and maintain its reputation as a utility that experiences some of the lowest levels of water loss in the United States by pinpointing leaks and assessing the condition of its water system without breaking ground."
Source: Mueller Water Products
