Understanding Water Leakage

The ripple effect of leaky pipes: 
Imagine taking a relaxing shower, only to discover the pressure plummeting due to a hidden leak. Water leakage creates inconveniences beyond daily routines. In the UK, it accounts for nearly a quarter of the total water supply – that's enough to fill hundreds of Olympic-sized swimming pools daily! This wasted water translates to higher bills for consumers, increased costs for water companies, and pressure on already strained resources. Additionally, leaks can damage roads and infrastructure, further impacting our communities.

Why do pipes leak?

• Ageing infrastructure: Older pipes are more susceptible to cracks and corrosion.
• Ground movements: Traffic, construction, and even weather can stress pipelines.
• Uncontrolled water use: Sudden pressure changes from misuse can weaken pipes.
• Extreme temperatures: Freezing conditions can cause pipes to burst.
• Torque settings: Incorrect torque settings to mechanical joints. Under or over tightened bolts can cause the pipe to leak.
• Installation issues: Incorrect installation or faulty fittings on new pipelines leads to leaking pipes.

How can I prevent future water leaks?
Industry regulations like IGN ensure all new pipelines undergo pressure testing. This involves applying controlled pressure exceeding normal levels, mimicking real-world stress and revealing potential vulnerabilities. But pressure testing goes beyond compliance with guidelines - it's a crucial safety measure mandated to guarantee the integrity of our infrastructure.

Sunbelt Rentals' innovative SMART Site app makes pressure testing easy. This app, currently offering SMART Torque and SMART Test data streams, connects your equipment to your smart device, providing real-time insights and simplifying pressure testing processes.

SMART Torque ensures all mechanic joints are compliant and torqued correctly, reducing water leakage.

For on-site test results, SMART Test allows you to connect to our Bluetooth-enabled equipment and run a type II pressure test. It generates accurate pass/fail outcomes with automated interventions, saving time and minimising human error. Additionally, recorded data is accessible 24/7, allowing for future comparisons and ensuring optimal pipeline performance.

Contact us today for leak-free pipeline networks

Water leakage is a challenge, but with effective prevention methods like pressure testing and our SMART pipeline solutions, we can safeguard our water infrastructure and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

Contact Sunbelt Rentals today to speak to an expert about how we can help you achieve a leak-free water network.