- New technology will help better manage asset replacement and upgrades
Water Minister Terry Redman today announced Water Corporation would bring forward a high-tech program to better assess the condition of water mains in the CBD.
It will use BEM (Broadband Electro Magnetic) imaging as part of an extensive pipe assessment program, which will begin this week.
Mr Redman said Water Corporation had been trialling BEM technology over the past year, but in light of the recent bursts along Wellington Street it would now be rolled out across the city immediately.
"Until now Water Corporation has relied on historical records to help decide when pipes needed fixing or replacing, but these records are sometimes incomplete, inaccurate or difficult to interpret," Mr Redman said.
"Initially Water Corporation believed the pipe in Wellington Street was around 50 to 60 years old, but further analysis of their records suggests the pipe may be more than 100 years old.
"Water Corporation has the lowest rate of bursts for any major city in Australia and there is no reason to believe there are any major problems with other pipes across the city.
"Overall the system is in very good condition and the introduction of BEM technology is expected to confirm this and will reduce leaks and bursts even further."
BEM imaging works like a giant CAT scan, rotating around the outside of a pipe and producing an image of the thickness and condition of the pipe wall.
Water Corporation is working with the City of Perth to develop a schedule for rolling out the BEM technology over the coming months.
The work to permanently replace the pipe which burst along Wellington Street is expected to be complete by mid-June. More information is available at http://www.watercorporation.com.au.
Fact File
In 2011-12, $903m was invested in new and replacement capital infrastructure in WA
In 2011-12, Water Corporation recorded 12 leaks and bursts for every 100km of main - the lowest in Australia
Minister's office - 6552 6700
