Executive Summary

This publication examines the benefits of integrated sensor surveys for wastewater collection systems and highlights how combining sonar, laser, CCTV, GPS, and additional sensing technologies can improve infrastructure condition assessments and maintenance planning.

Using a municipal trunk sewer case study, the paper demonstrates how detailed survey data supported more accurate cleaning scopes, improved contractor confidence, and reduced uncertainty associated with sewer rehabilitation and maintenance activities.

Publication Details

Publication: WaterWorld Magazine
Date: September 2023

Technical Overview

The publication outlines AquaCoustic’s integrated sensor survey methodology for trunk sewer inspections operating under live flow conditions. The survey incorporated sonar, laser profiling, CCTV, and additional data collection methods to assess pipe condition, sediment accumulation, debris levels, hydraulic restrictions, and infrastructure anomalies.

The case study also demonstrates how integrated point-cloud and survey data can support CAD integration, hydraulic analysis, maintenance planning, and contractor tender preparation.

Key Contributions

• Integration of sonar, laser, and CCTV data into a unified inspection workflow

• Accurate measurement of sediment accumulation and debris volumes

• CAD-ready point cloud generation for engineering analysis

• Improved understanding of hydraulic restrictions and sewer conditions

• Enhanced data quality for maintenance planning and contractor tendering

Infrastructure Implications

Integrated sensor inspections provide municipalities and infrastructure owners with more detailed information for sewer maintenance planning, rehabilitation prioritization, and operational decision-making.

Detailed infrastructure data can also help reduce uncertainty during tendering, improve contractor planning, and support more efficient maintenance activities while minimizing operational disruption.

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