A Data Driven Approach for Leak Detection with Smart Sensors

Preventing water pipe leaks and breaks has high priority for water utilities. It is a critical task for the utility to reduce water loss through leaks and breaks detection in water mains. The failure prediction and data analytics research have been conducted for an Australian water utility over the last few years to enhance the prediction of leaks and breaks detection in water mains. Intelligent sensing at sensitive locations with current research aids in prioritising investigation and prevention of potential breaks and leaks in water mains. The purpose of this work is to integrate the predictive analytics and intelligent sensing applications to identify high risk mains prior to failures. Predictive analytics and minimum night flow (MNF) analysis have been utilised to prioritise risky zones over the whole water network, and then risky pipes are identified to optimise sensors deployment. The sensing data is being collected for analysis and validation, and a machine learning model is being built based on the analysis results. This work is currently under progress and the planned outcomes will help the utility reduce water loss, improve leak detection, and enhance customer satisfaction by automating the process of leak detection using a data driven approach with smart sensors.