PipeBots for Rising
Mains
Many used water mains are part of an ageing infrastructure that has been in place for decades. Over time, they become prone to corrosion defects, wall thinning, and structural failure, requiring frequent maintenance and repair. PipeBots aims to address the challenges this ageing infrastructure causes by identifying defects early, before failures occur.
Project Overview
The PipeBots for Rising Mains project, led by Thames Water, aims to produce a proactive and effective method for identifying defects before catastrophic failure occurs, allowing for proactive and preventative maintenance to be performed. Synthotech is partnered with the project leader, Thames Water, as well as several other collaborators; Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, Wessex Water, and the University of Sheffield, to deliver a viable and robust solution for identifying these defects.
Why is PipeBots Necessary?
Leaks and bursts in rising mains often require costly and extensive repair works after a failure. A burst in a pumped main can necessitate large excavations, and can result in damage to surrounding infrastructure. With a proactive approach to surveying of high risk assets, water networks can identify failure points before they become an issue, and proactively implement fixes to prevent large costs and disruptions.
What stage is the Project in?
Currently the pipebots project is in TRL 6, with a prototype constructed and in pipe testing underway. We are currently targeting field trials by November 2026, with Thames Water making preparations for the trials at their Kempbell site. Development is still underway, but the design concept is established and we’re very happy with the progress the project is making.
How Does the System Work?
As the system is still in development we can’t provide too much detail on the function of the system. But what we can say is PipeBots is a compact, tethered, submersible system that is deployed direction into the pumped main. The system will then use advanced sensing to analyze the condition of the pipe wall and identify defects.
Looking to partner on an engineering project?
Get in touch today