Rehabilitation of water networks: Survey of research needs and on-going efforts

Abstract

Several water utilities experience and expect a great future challenge due to shortage of water, economical constraints and ageing water supply networks. The current and expected amount of pipe bursts and leaks are important indicators on network condition. Documentation of network properties, failures and water leaks, therefore, are of crucial importance for an efficient management. The paper refers different ways of handling this scope in European countries and in North America. The use of statistical methods for estimating existing and future rehabilitation needs and the use of software tools for prioritising actions are discussed. Current development on technologies for detecting leaks and for measuring pipe wall thinning is commented. It is argued that there is still a knowledge gap, and that joint international research could be a way to improve the knowledge, create new technologies and improve the water network management. A possible frame for an international programme has been presented.