The LDS 1000™ is an advanced condition assessment technology for the inspection of in-service, large diameter transmission mains. The platform technology can be deployed up to 3,000 feet (900 meters) and can work under a wide variety of flow conditions. The LDS 1000™ incorporates a state of the art video technology combined with an ultra-high response hydrophone sensor for precise inspections. The technology is combined into a single, small sensor head, allowing leak and video inspections to be run simultaneously which drastically increases overall inspection efficiency.

Applications:

• Leak detection
  
• Video inspection
  
• Identification of structural defects
  
• Lining quality assessment
  
• Pre-lining condition assessment
  
• Valve assessment and locating
  
• Hydrostatic pressure testing
  
• Pipeline mapping
  
• Illegal connection identification
  
• Tuberculation assessment

 

Operation:

The LDS 1000™ has a small footprint and is operated from a standard utility van which minimizes the impact of inspections on local residents and traffic. The system offers greater operator control for entry into transmission mains and uses an electronic drive mechanism to retract the sensor head through any 2 inch (50 mm) internal diameter or greater access, such as a new or existing tap. This process ensures a consistent feed rate which increases control and positioning of the sensor. The system also has a built in disinfection functionality which ensures the protection of potable water supplies.

 

As the sensor head travels along the pipe, it is not dependent on ideal water flow conditions. This simplifies the inspection process for utility crews while providing more accurate information. The video image does not require post processing, so inspections can be viewed in real time as well as recorded. Visual inspection data can be obtained quicker with greater detail and definition. The hydrophone is operated in parallel with the video camera system, offering visual and acoustic data all from a single deployment, significantly increasing the efficiency of inspections. The hydrophone technology is very sensitive due to a variety of advanced filtering and frequency options. This results in accurate locating and marking of small and large leaks.

LDS1000™ Advantages:

• Pipelines remain in-service during inspection
• Single pass video/leak assessment decreases total inspection time
• System can operate in a wide range of flow conditions
• Built-in disinfection system ensures potable water safety
• Tethered system minimizes risk of lost sensors
• Superior operator control

The LDS 1000™ is a critical tool to help ensure the operability and efficiency of water transmission mains. Information gained from transmission main assessments can be interpreted and mapped by Wachs Water Services experts to a utility GIS system.

Inspection data can include:

• GPS coordinates of insertion points
• GPS coordinates of any identified leaks or internal features (bends, valves, fittings, repair sections)
• Location of any leaks located inside the pipeline