Field verification of a continuous transient monitoring system for burst detection in water distribution systems

Abstract

Burst pipes in water distribution systems can result in damage to infrastructure and other private property (with consequent compensation implications) in addition to pipeline repair costs, disruption to water services and lost water. This paper presents the results from the application of an inverse transient modelling technique to a field water distribution system. Artificial bursts, developed over various durations, were induced at two different locations in the field network on two separate test dates. The artificial bursts were successfully located and sized using the inverse transient method. Information from two measurement stations, and then a single pressure measurement station, was used to detect the burst location and size.