Newsdesk
Leak detectives use Victorian 'stick' to save
900 million litres of water A crack team of leak detectives has tracked down and plugged more 18,000 hidden pipe leaks in the North West over the past 12 months - thanks to a device that has been used since the Victorian era.
The 140 strong team from United Utilities saved an average of 900 million litres of water - the equivalent of 360 Olympic sized swimming pools - using wooden 'listening sticks'.
The long wooden sticks with an ear-trumpet style end vibrate when a leak is detected, producing a distinctive sound. They have been used for more than 100 years and are still a staple for modern leakage engineers.
Many of the most wasteful leaks are underground and hidden from view, requiring the team to rely on good hearing, old fashioned know how and latest digital technology to find them.
Digital sensors and remotely operated pressure monitoring equipment are also used to turn the tide on hidden leaks.
Many leaks are detected late at night, when reduced traffic noise makes it easier to hear the sound of escaping water.
Hannah Wardle, United Utilities leakage manager said: "We've spotted and stopped thousands of leaks over the past 12 months, using a combination of tried and tested, old fashioned techniques, and
cutting edge technology.
"These leaks are often hidden under the streets, with no visual signs that water is being wasted. We track many of them down at night, when it's easier to hear the escaping water.
"We encourage our customers to save water around the home, as it makes good economic and environmental sense. Our nightly battle against hidden leaks is a way of keeping our own house in order. "
Members of the public who spot leaks in the road or footpath can report them to United Utilities by filling in a leak form on the company’s website
unitedutilities.com.
Alison Ireland appointed as Bluetech
Business Development Director BlueTech Research, the leading provider of global water technology market intelligence, has appointed Alison Ireland to the post of business development director. Ireland will be based in the UK office and her position in the senior team will support the development of BlueTech’s subscriber base, with a focus on European clients.
Ireland brings 15 years of water industry consultancy, marketing and research experience to the position, most recently working as a consultant with early-stage water technology companies seeking access to global markets. Previously she was instrumental in establishing and growing the Global Water Intelligence business information platform as sales and marketing director.
BlueTech Research chief executive Paul O’Callaghan
said, “I am very pleased to have Alison onboard. Her high level experience in sales and marketing along with her water sector expertise and background in technical research will be invaluable to BlueTech’s future growth plans.
“Alison will bring the benefit of her knowledge, networks and experience to the team as we grow the business and build our BlueTech Forum event.”
Alison Ireland said, “I am excited to join BlueTech at this crucial time for both the company and the water industry. BlueTech offers an indispensible service to utilities and industrial corporate water users seeking to capture the efficiencies and cost benefits that innovative technologies can deliver.
Alison Ireland
“Companies need high quality information about the technologies available to them and I look forward to working closely with our clients and partners to raise awareness of this valuable service.”
68 drain TRADER | April 2017 |
www.draintraderltd.com
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