p-CAT Condition Assessment

About

Developed by The University of Adelaide, p-CAT offers a cost-effective and low-risk method of pipeline condition assessment, with no impact on network operation or customer service, and the ability to obtain a range of valuable data on up to 2km’s of pipeline from a single deployment. The system can be used on all pressurised metallic, asbestos cement and concrete pipelines which contain liquid products, including raw water, potable water and wastewater. Utilising existing fittings such as air valves, sender and receiver units are installed up to 2km’s apart on the pipeline (dependant on pressure and diameter). The sender unit induces a specific frequency of low-intensity pressure transient which travels along the main and is read by the receiver unit. Changes in the signal can then analysed against a signal library to identify and measure key pipeline features, such as: • Pipe wall thickness variations < 0.2mm • Cement lining defects • Change in material • Internal blockages and restrictions, including closed or partially closed valves • Air & gas pockets Where data is collected on distribution assets, the information can be used to directly inform network rehabilitation programmes with a limited amount of desktop and field validation required. Where p-CAT is utilised on the trunk main or raw water network it becomes a powerful screening tool that can provide extensive coverage at a low cost, with no service impact and minimal operational risk to the network. The output is used not only to inform the overall risk profile of the asset but also provides key information which is necessary to effectively target the location and specification of any more expensive, intrusive and high-risk follow-on investigations that may be required, such as dig-down NDT’s or internal CCTV surveys.