Yarra Valley Water tackles leaks with IoT-backed ‘noise loggers’

Melbourne’s largest retail water utility Yarra Valley Water (YVW) has added a host of internet of things sensors to detect leaks across its waterways.

YVW has turned to Aqua Analytics to supply a series of acoustic leak monitoring devices, which log the sounds of water leaks in hydrants, valves, or pipes.

The data collected is then transmitted via wireless communications to an online server where YVW analyses noise data to predict the likelihood of a leak.

YVW said it will use artificial intelligence to gather additional leak intelligence by comparing every recorded sound file with a database of samples.

"We're better equipped to proactively identify and resolve leaks quickly, ensuring better outcomes for our customers, the community and environment,” said YVW acting general manager for service futures Raghu Bharadwaj.

YVW has already carried out a comprehensive digitalisation of its water network, adding KPMG’s asset intelligence platform Arwin in 2021.

Last year, the utility unveiled plans to install digital water meters and network sensors across its 4000 square kilometre distribution network using technology from Sagemcom Australasia.

Upon being rolled out this year, the project is expected to deliver early network fault notifications and improve asset management.

When asked how the technologies would interact with Aqua Analytics, a YVW spokesperson said: “The digitalisation of our network through digital meters and flow/pressure sensors means that our macro level data will be able to provide the analytics via systems like Arwin.

“This in turn will help us efficiently pinpoint where Aqua Analytics services are needed for best value for money in terms of effort, cost, and leak prevention.”