Water Pipelines are Critical for our Future
Swelling global populations, industrial growth and changing climates will continue to place enormous pressures on world's aging transmission lines. These critical water pipelines move water from areas with abundant volumes (such as oceans, lakes, rivers or reservoirs) and transfer it across great distances to areas in need. The objective is to accomplish this task safely, without causing erosion or losing significant volumes due to evaporation.
Water pipelines range from just a few inches to over 20 feet in diameter and can supply water to communities and industries over both short and long distances. Pipelines can be installed underground or above ground. They can be used to bring in freshwater, or to transport wastewater for treatment. Common water pipeline materials include concrete, metallic, plastic and fibreglass.
With the world population reaching 6 billion and growing, the need for reliable fresh water resources is increasing. Only 2.4% of all water on Earth is freshwater, and less than 1% of all freshwater is available for human use. There is no question that water is absolutely necessary for human survival. However, over one billion people on Earth already do not have access to a safe and reliable water supply.
Water pipelines provide a solution to this challenge. These massive pipelines can transfer water quickly and effectively, avoiding evaporation which can occur in an open water transfer or diversion. With the incredible power of these pipelines, water can be extracted from deep wells and pumped long distances to where it is required. Also, water can be directly taken from a surface water source. Water is transported through the pipelines with pumps and/or the natural force of gravity.
In the not too distant future, arid lands that are rapidly being developed will not be able to sustain their people or their land use practices. With 65% of all water use going towards irrigation, even more water will be needed for irrigation as growing regional populations will require increased agricultural production. Areas such as California, Nevada, Arizona and Mexico are facing huge water shortages as urban sprawl continues to expand into the desert. Water pipelines could transfer water to these areas to increase sustainability.
The expected swell in global population will also undoubtedly lead to a rise in the production of wastewater. Many areas are exploring the use of highly treated wastewater as an alternative water source to support industrial, agricultural and general irrigation needs. Unfortunately, in many regions a new water pipeline distribution infrastructure will be required to accommodate the use of this alternative water resource.
It’s estimated that only 5% of global wastewater is properly treated, primarily in developed countries. As a result, the majority of the world’s population is still exposed to waterborne diseases, and the quality of water resources has been rapidly degraded, particularly in poor developing countries. Development of wastewater pipelines to transport sewage to treatment facilities will be a critical step to achieving environmental best practices.
The construction of a large diameter water pipeline over a long distance can be very expensive. With manufacturing, labor, and installation, water pipeline projects can cost billions of dollars. In addition, maintenance must be done on a regular basis to keep the pipeline operating safely and effectively over a long period of time. Water pipelines need to be monitored continually and water quality must be constantly checked.
Advanced condition assessment technologies, such as Remote Field Transformed Couplings, Sahara Leak Detection, Acoustic Emissions Testing and Transient Pressure Monitors are being used by water pipeline operators to better manage these major investments.
Water pipeline operators around the world are discovering that simply building new pipelines or replacing entire pipelines is cost prohibitive and that advanced condition assessment technologies from the Pressure Pipe Inspection Company can help them make informed decisions that extend the life and pipelines and reduce capital and operating costs.