In the intricate, complex web of infrastructure, pipelines really are the unsung heroes, quietly facilitating the flow of essential resources like water. Ensuring their reliability and safety is paramount for any utility or council managing water systems. In this quest for efficiency and reliability, technology has emerged as a crucial ally, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) leading the charge.
At the forefront of this technological revolution stands INGU’s Pipers® solution—a game-changer in predictive maintenance for water utilities.
Traditionally, pipeline inspection relied on labor-intensive methods, often coupled with lengthy downtime and limited insights into potential issues. Enter Pipers®—a baseball-sized, free-floating multi-sensor system armed with AI-powered data analytics and a GIS Pipeline viewer. This innovative solution represents a paradigm shift, accurately identifying and locating potential issues such as leaks, buildup, or changes in pipeline walls without the need for external reference devices.
The significance of Pipers® lies not just in their advanced capabilities but also in their versatility. Suitable for all pipelines regardless of diameter or material, they can operate while the pipeline is in service—a critical feature for minimising disruption. Designed specifically for the challenges encountered in water, wastewater, bulk water, and other pipeline sectors, Pipers® offer an unprecedented level of adaptability, catering to diverse pipeline configurations with ease.
“Through multi-sensor surveys, they provide a holistic view of pipeline conditions, covering everything from leaks and air pockets to pressure and wall conditions—all in a single run. This comprehensive data empowers asset managers to prioritise maintenance efforts effectively, ensuring pipelines operate safely and reliably.”
But what sets Pipers® apart is not just their ability to identify issues; it’s their comprehensive approach to pipeline management. Through multi-sensor surveys, they provide a holistic view of pipeline conditions, covering everything from leaks and air pockets to pressure and wall conditions—all in a single run. This comprehensive data empowers asset managers to prioritise maintenance efforts effectively, ensuring pipelines operate safely and reliably.
Key features such as 100% uptime, rich datasets library, and non-revenue water detection further enhance the value proposition of Pipers®. The ability to leverage historical data for analysis and insight adds another dimension to their utility, enabling proactive decision-making and optimisation of maintenance strategies.
Their versatility extends across various pipeline scenarios, including treated water, raw water, or wastewater mains, challenging-to-inspect pipelines, diverse pipe diameters, and various materials—making them indispensable for industries reliant on efficient and reliable pipeline systems.
For civil engineers and asset managers tasked with ensuring the integrity of water infrastructure in Australia and New Zealand, Pipers® offer a lifeline. Their operational versatility, coupled with AI-powered analytics, empowers proactive maintenance strategies, minimising downtime and maximising efficiency.
In a world where every drop counts, Pipers® play a pivotal role in the fight against water loss. By accurately pinpointing leaks and optimising maintenance efforts, they contribute not only to operational efficiency but also to sustainability—a cause that resonates deeply with water utilities and councils alike.
The future of pipeline management is here, and it’s driven by innovation. As we embrace the power of AI and advanced technologies like Pipers®, we move closer to a world where water flows freely, reliably, and sustainably—an achievement that holds immeasurable value for generations to come.
Connect with us today to discuss how Pipers® can offer full visibility across your water pipeline infrastructure to optimise pipeline safety and efficiency.
