Networks
Innovating in order to reduce possible contamination
Among the infrastructure which might have a negative impact on the environment are the various water systems such as the water supply system, wastewater systems, rainwater pipes, lead service pipes and the facilities and equipment used in the operation of these systems.
- leaks
- corrosion
- risk of contaminating the natural environment
- incidents which adversely affect water quality
In 2003 two major projects were developed by research teams from Veolia Water to ensure that the water supply met the highest standards in hygiene, and that there was no change to the taste of the water.
Developing tools and methods to analyse corrosion
Various solutions have been devised to study corrosion and the development of biofilm.
Reactors, designed to promote biofilm growth and located at those stages of the water system which are at risk, have been adapted and used in the water supply systems of Toulouse, Bergerac, Lunéville, as well at a pilot site at Maisons-Laffitte, just outside Paris.
Assessing anti-corrosion treatment solutions for the water supply system
A two-year study was begun at Maisons-Laffitte, just outside Paris, at the end of 2003.
Its aim was twofold:
- studying the impact of remineralization treatments
- adding a corrosion inhibitor
The results led to the creation of a whole range of operating solutions aimed at preserving the life of the water supply system.
A wave ahead in leaks detection
The improvement of water distribution networks, and especially their watertightness, is a priority for the countries in AMI's perimeter, which suffer from severe strains on their water resources. Run by Morocco, a project to detect leaks in underground pipes thanks to the georadar has just opened up new prospects in that direction. More explanations with Sébastien Chauvin, in charge of the project at VW AMI.
Detecting and repairing leaks are essential for all water companies, but especially in emerging countries (dilapidated networks, lack of accurate maps, etc.). The goal is to develop an underground inspection system usable from the surface and geared towards the networks' specific features (discontinuous supply and very low service pressure).
The georadar, which was originally developed for underground prospecting, uses high-frequency electromagnetic waves (10 to 2,000 MHz) to inspect a subterranean environment. Its application to the search for leaks is based on the detection of voids or highly resistant zones around the conduit by the emission of very high-frequency waves in the ground and the analysis of the "echoes" received.
> The project in Niger
The new equipment, which was successfully developed and tested in Rabat (Morocco) in May 2007, has just been incorporated into a pilot project in Niger, prior to the decision to invest by SEEN operators. The test, which was performed on a section of Niamey's drinking water network from 9 to 15 December 2007, confirmed the equipment's performances and compatibility with the specific features of Niger's terrain. It also met with widespread acclaim from local technical teams.
The new equipment's performances and relatively low cost (approximately €30,000) are likely to incite other countries to follow this example. Projects are currently under review in India and Tangier.
