When it comes to water and wastewater management, the battle against inflow and infiltration (I&I) poses a significant challenge for municipalities and water utilities globally. I&I occurs when groundwater or stormwater enters sewer systems through leaks, cracks, or faulty/illegal connections, leading to overwhelmed treatment facilities, increased costs, and environmental concerns.
To address these issues sustainably, innovative strategies and technologies have emerged, offering promising solutions for water utilities.
Advanced Sensing Systems: Precision in Monitoring
The adoption of advanced source detection technologies marks a significant step in proactively identifying and addressing I&I sources. Traditional intrusive techniques for determining I&I sources using smoke testing and CCTV are not always effective or sufficiently granular in the data provided for rehabilitation techniques.
Utilising agile sensing systems, and data analytics, water utilities can pinpoint inflow and infiltration points swiftly and accurately. Deployment of such technologies in a coordinated approach can present high levels of transparency in determining contributing sectional cohorts within a catchment. Powerful AI and the very best portable monitoring hardware and software present the ability to determine priority and methods of capital intervention saving the communities cost and environmental upheaval.
“Utilising agile sensing systems, and data analytics, water utilities can pinpoint inflow and infiltration points swiftly and accurately.”
Green Infrastructure: Nature’s Contribution to Water Management
Integrating green infrastructure into urban landscapes presents a holistic approach to mitigate I&I issues. Green roofs, permeable pavements, rain gardens, and bioswales act as natural buffers, absorbing and filtering stormwater runoff before it reaches the sewer system. These eco-friendly solutions not only reduce the volume of water entering the sewers but also enhance urban aesthetics, improve air quality, and support biodiversity, creating resilient and sustainable communities.
Sewer Lining: Reinforcing Infrastructure for Longevity
One key approach to combat I&I involves rehabilitating aging sewer systems through innovative lining techniques. Cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, for instance, provides a trenchless solution by inserting a resin-saturated liner into existing pipes and curing it in place, effectively sealing leaks and preventing groundwater infiltration. This method extends the life of the sewer system while reducing the need for extensive excavation, minimising disruption to communities, and promoting long-term sustainability. This approach, whilst effective, is an expensive option for some asset owners.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
Implementing sustainable solutions to tackle I&I not only preserves infrastructure integrity but also yields economic and environmental benefits. Reduced treatment costs, extended infrastructure lifespan, minimised energy consumption, and mitigated pollution all contribute to cost savings and a healthier environment. Moreover, investing in sustainable practices aligns with broader sustainability goals, attracting funding opportunities and enhancing the overall livability of communities.
Addressing inflow and infiltration challenges demands a multifaceted approach that combines innovative technologies, nature-based solutions, community engagement, and a commitment to sustainability. By investing in sewer lining technologies, integrating green infrastructure, deploying advanced leak detection systems, and fostering collaborative efforts, water utilities and municipalities can pave the way for resilient, efficient, and sustainable water management systems.
Together, these strategies form a robust framework for combating I&I, ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable future for generations to come.
Connect with us today to learn more about our advanced I&I solutions.
