Embracing innovative solutions
A radical rethink of pipe material to remove the root causes or potential points of failure, such as joints, may offer the answer the UK industry needs. Solutions may come from technologies or installation techniques associated with pipelines laid in severe environments, i.e., in areas where movement of pipes is an issue due to soil conditions and associated ground shift.
Based on the leakage reduction benefits achieved in the Far East (Tokyo, Seoul and Taipei), the Nickel Institute and International Molybdenum Association have introduced the possibility of installing partially corrugated stainless steel for service pipes – new and renewal - in the UK to reduce leakage.
The cost benefit of its application to the UK water sector is not yet fully understood. In an independent ‘deep dive’ review, WRc used its extensive knowledge and experience of water networks to undertake a review of all available information from the existing use of partially corrugated stainless steel pipes for service pipes, for evidence of leakage reduction benefits.