Line location in drinking water networks - the basis for efficient leak detection

Many water supply networks - especially older ones - lack precise plans or digital documentation of the pipes. Without precise knowledge of the pipe route, it is almost impossible to locate leaks accurately.

Why is line location so important?

Precise pipe location is the first and decisive step for successful leak detection in drinking water supply networks. An effective correlation - for example with a correlator such as the Correlux C-3 from SebaKMT - can only be carried out if the exact route of the pipes is known. The suspected point that is then determined can be specifically checked and confirmed using a ground microphone, such as the HL 7000. In this way, incorrect excavations can be avoided and unnecessary costs significantly reduced.

Line location technologies - SebaKMT solutions at a glance

Different locating methods are used depending on the cable material, environmental conditions and accessibility of the network. SebaKMT offers a wide range of high-performance devices that enable the precise localization of supply lines - reliably, efficiently and user-friendly. The Easyloc RxTx is ideal for fast locating applications in civil engineering and for locating metallic lines. For more complex network structures, the Ferrolux system delivers high-precision results including depth measurement. For mixed network sections or unknown pipe materials, the Carloc is a flexible solution. And when it comes to non-metallic pipes such as PE or PVC, the Pipe knocker RSP 3 enables non-destructive locating without probes or excavation thanks to direct signal coupling. This means that the right locating method can be selected for every application.

Application in practice (coming soon)

The combination of precise pipe detection, modern correlation technology and acoustic leak confirmation forms the basis for successful leak detection in drinking water networks. Real-life application examples will be presented here shortly - with specific challenges, devices used and results. This will give you a practical insight into implementation on site and the added value for network operators.

Advantages for network operators

Systematic pipe location brings considerable advantages for water suppliers and network operators - both in day-to-day operations and in long-term network management:

Avoidance of faulty excavations

Precisely locating the pipes avoids costly and unnecessary excavations - saving time, money and resources.

Reduction of water losses

The fast and targeted detection of leaks enables early repair before major damage or water loss occurs.

More efficient fault processing

Technicians on site can work in a targeted manner with up-to-date location data - without having to search for unknown pipe routes.

Safer construction planning and maintenance

Up-to-date knowledge of the network reduces risks during construction work, prevents line damage and facilitates coordination with other trades.

Basis for digital documentation

The pipe data collected can be transferred directly to GIS or asset management systems - a decisive step towards digitizing the supply network.

Conclusion: Precise localization - the basis of modern network management

The precise location of pipes is far more than just a technical detail - it is the basis for any effective leak detection and economical network management. Particularly in older supply networks, where reliable plans are often lacking, it enables targeted action instead of costly guesswork. The locating systems offered by SebaKMT provide a suitable solution for almost every application - from classic civil engineering to locating non-metallic pipes. Those who rely on modern pipe location not only reduce water losses and maintenance costs, but also create the basis for future-proof, digital network management.

Would you like to know which locating system is suitable for your network?
Contact us - our experts will be happy to advise you.