THE APPLICATION OF IN-LINE INSPECTION TECHNOLOGY FOR CONDITION ASSESSMENT OF WATER MAINS

Condition assessment technology is used to quantify if actual main characteristics meet their requirements. If better information on the condition of mains is available, adequate decisions can be taken on postponing investments for replacement. Inspection technologies can be used to obtain more knowledge on the condition of mains and could therefore play an important role in improved management of underground assets. Inline inspection technologies are available for metal and cement mains larger than 250 mm. Application of business cases shows that, even if inspection technologies would exist for smaller diameters, the total cost of inspection is higher than the savings due to postponement. For medium sized mains inspection could be cost-effective, although given the large number of uncertainties, it is not sure if savings will materialize.