project

Raw Water Pipeline Knowledge Platform

Dunea, PWN, Waternet and Evides use surface water as a primary source for drinking water production and for supplying water to industry. These utilities operate extensive trunk main systems that were constructed in the 1960s and 1970s. The mains consist of large-diameter concrete and steel pipes. These mains are currently approximately halfway through their expected technical service life, while their replacement and/or expansion would require enormous investments.

It is therefore of great importance for these companies to gain insight into the current condition and remaining life of these assets. In addition, they aim to develop joint policies and agreements wherever this can be achieved efficiently and effectively. Brabant Water has joined this initiative to exchange knowledge regarding its concrete (drinking) water trunk mains.

Within the Knowledge Platform, six project groups are active, while governance and decision-making are organised through a Steering Committee. The project groups focus on:

  1. Optimising emergency stockpiles and repair components.
  1. Assessing critical components and jointly procuring rubber sealing rings.
  2. Monitoring developments in inspection techniques for concrete pipelines.
  3. Conducting a market assessment for a shared emergency maintenance contractor.
  4. Developing a calculation tool for the structural strength of concrete pipelines and establishing a testing facility.
  5. Examining legal aspects to support improved management of raw water pipeline corridors.