Pressure Transients monitoring in Hunter Water to verify causes for critical pipe failure
Overview
As part of Activity 1 internal and external factors contributing to pipe failures are being studied extensively. Water pressure, including likely pressure transients, is identified as one of the most critical factors contributing to failure of large diameter pipes. Two sections (section A and B) of the Hunter Water network in Newcastle, Australia were selected to investigate the likely pressure transient development in typical water supply networks, where pumps are in operation. Two major activities were carried out. Firstly, water pressure was monitored at several strategic locations in the network. Secondly, computer hydraulic modelling was carried out to obtain the pressure distribution across the entire network section. This fact sheet provides a brief summary of the pressure monitoring program undertaken over the last year. The objectives of the pressure monitoring are to:
- Capture pressure transients generated in the water network during its operation; and
- Obtain a pressure transient data set for hydraulic model validation.