Optimizing Root Control with Acoustic Inspections- Western Virginia Water Authority

Western Virginia Water Authority is a mid-sized utility in Southwest Virginia that provides water and sewer service to ~250,000 people. In 2016, they started looking for ways to optimize the process for identifying pipes for chemical root control. To effectively manage an abundance of CCTV work orders, Western Virginia Water Authority utilized acoustic technology to screen their system for potential blockages. Over 4,500 acoustic inspections were conducted, resulting in identifying 557 with Blocked or POOR/low FAIR blockage assessments – scores of 0 to 4. Resources could be allocated to the 12% of pipes with identified need.

“The use of the SL-RAT greatly reduced the amount of time that needed to be spent televising and allowed for quick screening of the system.”

To read the full American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Paper, click here.