Expert Water Pipe Condition Checks
Our Asset Condition Laboratory service checks the condition of water mains. We analyse our network to make sure we manage it efficiently and cost-effectively, meeting both regulatory standards and customer needs. Check below how our service can help you do the same.
Pipe Sampling Service
Our pipe sampling tests involve performing destructive testing on pipe samples and assessing their condition before and after the tests. The main purpose is to evaluate the state of the pipes by measuring corrosion and deterioration. We assess factors such as the number of holes, the depth of pits, and the loss of wall thickness.
These factors can significantly impact the health and performance of water mains; for instance, they can affect the mechanical strength and pressure-bearing capacity of the pipes
Monitoring and Asset Management
Monitoring the condition of the mains helps us evaluate how much longer the pipes will last and predict potential failure risks. This approach addresses issues such as corrosion and thinning walls, helping to reduce the chances of leaks, ruptures, or other problems that could disrupt service. It also supports effective asset management by prioritising maintenance, identifying vulnerable areas, preventing failures, and ensuring the safe operation of our pipelines.
Data Analysis and Decision Making
Additionally, analysing main condition data alongside other data, such as the aggressivity of soil and water sources, help identify the main factors contributing to failure, observe trends in degradation, make informed decisions about where to focus future main renewal efforts and uphold regulatory compliance and industry standards.
Pipe sample process
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Collected pipe samples
Pipe samples are collected from the site, unbagged, photographed, and assigned a unique code. Location and site-specific details are obtained from Maximo or GIS and added to a worksheet, and the samples are cut to a length of 150-500 mm. They are visually inspected to determine if they can be processed safely, either fully or partially, and all samples are then recorded in the database.
Initial measurements and cutting the pipe sample
The pipe sample is evaluated to determine its material type, diameter, potential age, and tuberculation grade, and we'll make comments on its condition. Photographs are taken for the final report.
Both ends of the sample are measured for diameter (inside and outside), and wall thickness is measured in four places around the circumference at each end. This provides an average wall thickness, which helps us grade the sample's pressure rating.
Next, the sample is cut lengthwise into two halves: the crown and invert section. The internal and external circumferences of the halves are measured for further calculations.
Shot blasting
The sample is weighed before and after shot blasting for the final calculations. Shot blasting gets rid of the dark grey corrosion, revealing the lighter silver-cast iron underneath. This makes it easier to see the surface and accurately check the condition of the pipe, helping us find any weaknesses and assess the overall integrity of the material.
Samples after shot blasting
The pipe sample is ready for a thorough evaluation of:
- Identification of the number of holes.
- Measuring the 20 deepest pits.
- Assessing wall thickness
External sections after shot blasting
The sample is shot blasted and ready for measuring the 20 deepest pits, and evaluating if there are any holes
Pricing
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| Diameter |
Price |
| Up to 6" |
£500 per sample |
| Above 6" and below 12" |
£600 per sample |
| Above 12" and below 18" |
£1000 per sample |
| Above 18" |
£1700 per sample |
How to send a sample
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Please deliver pipe samples to our laboratory following these guidelines
Pipes up to and including 9” in diameter (Distribution Mains)
- Bagged samples: Ensure that samples of the extent of the cut-out are bagged, with a minimum length of 500mm. If smaller, then this needs to be equal to the size of the cutout.
- Mains Inspection Report (MIR): To be completed – size, material, type of failure, and external condition as a minimum.
- Pipe sample form: Ensure this is filled in full (pipe cut-out assessment condition form).
- Sample piece: The sample needs to come back in one piece where possible.
Pipes greater than 9” (225mm) in diameter (Trunk Mains)
- Bagged samples: Ensure that samples of the extent of the cut-out are bagged, with a minimum length of 500mm. If smaller, then this needs to be equal to the size of the cutout.
- Mains Inspection Report (MIR): To be completed – size, material, type of failure, and external condition as a minimum.
- Pipe sample form: Ensure this is filled in full (pipe cut-out assessment condition form).
- Large and heavy cutouts: If the cutout is large and heavy (anything over 4,000mm in length), please inform the Asset Condition Laboratory team in Roestock upon cutout so that we can accommodate in terms of logistics – where possible in one piece.
Consideration over materials
The following types of pipes are usually accepted, except for asbestos or asbestos cement pipes: ferrous metals and alloys (cast iron, ductile iron, spun iron, steel). Whenever possible, all samples should be bagged and tied using plastic bags. This isn’t necessary for larger trunk main samples.
Contact us
For additional guidance and support, please contact the Asset Condition Laboratory assetconditionlab@affinitywater.co.uk