The City of Raleigh Public Utilities Department, known as Raleigh Water, is undertaking a significant transformation in how it manages its extensive water pipeline network. With over 2,340 miles of pipes, many of which are over a century old, the challenge of maintaining and upgrading this infrastructure is daunting. To address this, Raleigh Water has partnered with Xylem, a global leader in water technology, to leverage advanced analytics and location intelligence. This collaboration aims to enhance predictive maintenance, reduce costs, and improve service reliability for the community.
Understanding the Challenge
– The Aging Infrastructure
Raleigh Water’s pipeline network consists of various segments, some dating back more than 100 years. This aging infrastructure poses a significant risk of failure, leading to water main breaks and service disruptions. Accurately predicting which sections of the pipeline are most at risk is crucial for effective maintenance and resource allocation.
– The Need for Predictive Analytics
Managing such a vast and diverse pipe network presents a unique challenge. The variability in construction methods and materials over the decades complicates the prediction of potential failures. If maintenance decisions are made incorrectly, it could result in premature replacement of pipes or, conversely, the neglect of higher-risk segments. Thus, a data-driven approach is essential for informed decision-making.
Innovative Solutions from Xylem
– Advanced Risk Analytics and Location Intelligence
To tackle these challenges, Raleigh Water has integrated Xylem’s cutting-edge sensors and risk analytics with Esri’s location intelligence software. This combination allows for a more accurate and predictive assessment of the pipeline network. The implementation of this technology has led to a remarkable reduction in the time required to determine which water mains need replacement—by 75% compared to previous methods.
– Cost Efficiency and Reduced Water Loss
This innovative approach not only expedites decision-making but also minimizes unnecessary expenditures and mitigates water loss resulting from pipe failures. Adam Haggerty, Asset Manager for Raleigh Water, emphasizes the value of Xylem’s predictive modeling services, stating, “Replacing these mains is the best bang for the buck. This is a game changer for us, and it is something we will be able to use for a wide variety of applications.”
The Importance of Risk Management
– Predicting Failures
As Rocio Echeverria, Vice President and General Manager at Xylem, points out, managing risk in a large pipe network is a formidable task. The unpredictability of failures in unseen assets complicates the process. Advanced risk analytics enables utilities to make informed decisions, ensuring that only the necessary sections are replaced while maintaining the integrity of the entire network.
– Financial and Community Benefits
By accurately identifying at-risk segments, utilities can save money and reduce community disruption. The ability to dig only when necessary not only conserves resources but also minimizes the impact on residents. This strategic approach ultimately fosters greater confidence in the utility’s operations and enhances service reliability.
Leveraging Historical Data for Future Success
– Comprehensive Network Analysis
Xylem’s Asset Performance Optimization solution conducts a thorough analysis of Raleigh Water’s entire pipeline network. By combining historical break data with current information through Esri ArcGIS Enterprise, the assessment identifies the top 1% of pipeline segments at risk of failure. This targeted analysis allows for more effective prioritization of maintenance efforts.
– Targeted Preventative Maintenance
After identifying the most vulnerable segments, the team clusters these at-risk pipes for prioritized maintenance. This data-driven model not only streamlines maintenance operations but also supports broader city initiatives aimed at promoting equity in infrastructure project selection.
Promoting Racial Equity in Infrastructure Projects
– Eliminating Bias in Selection
Raleigh Water’s collaboration with Xylem is also aligned with a city-wide initiative to enhance racial equity. By utilizing data-driven insights, the utility can make more equitable decisions regarding infrastructure projects, ensuring that resources are allocated where they are most needed without bias.
– Project Planning and Community Impact
To date, Raleigh Water has planned six projects based on the insights gained from Xylem’s analyses. The utility estimates that this collaboration has already saved 75% of planning time, reduced risks to the network, and decreased response times. Additionally, the proactive approach lessens the community impact of potential water main breaks.
Conclusion
The partnership between Raleigh Water and Xylem exemplifies the transformative power of technology in managing urban water infrastructure. By integrating advanced analytics and geographic information systems, Raleigh Water is not only enhancing its operational efficiency but also ensuring a more equitable approach to infrastructure development. As they continue to implement these innovative solutions, Raleigh Water is setting a benchmark for utilities nationwide, demonstrating that data-driven decision-making can lead to significant cost savings, improved service reliability, and enhanced community trust.
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Reference
1.Data Science Helps Raleigh Water Avoid Digging Up The Streets
2.Data Science Helps Raleigh Water Avoid Digging Up the Streets
https://modernpumpingtoday.com/data-science-helps-raleigh-water-avoid-digging-up-the-streets/
