Celebrating World Water Day, Byron Shire Council announced it will become one of the first councils in NSW to trial a new technology from the UK that has been proven to reduce bursts in water pipes by 40%, cut leaks by 20% and minimise water wastage and disruptions to community water services.
"We've started a trial that upgrades the existing pressure reduction valves in the Mullumbimby area and uses high-precision data loggers to control and monitor water pressure and flow throughout the network," Council's Manager Utilities, Cameron Clark said
"We've chosen the Mullumbimby area as our trial area as over half of the town's population receives water supply via pressure reduction valves," Mr Clark said.
Pressure reduction valves maintain the quality and reliability of a water supply by reducing excess pressure across the water network and minimising the potential for bursts and leaks. Surges in pressure can cause pipes to weaken and eventually fail, significantly reducing overall asset life.
"Through this trial we will be able to automatically optimise our pressure reduction valves by reducing network pressures and keeping pressure variances to a minimum," Mr Clark said.
"The technology's data loggers are designed to alert us to spikes in network pressure and allow us to act quickly to calm them.
"It also allows us to be more in control, remotely, of our water network.
"This smart network monitoring and analytics solution will lead to fewer bursts, which not only extends the life of our pipes but also means we can reduce the amount of water lost through leaks – a win-win for the community and the environment.
"We will be monitoring and analysing the results of the trial for the next six months.
"If successful, this solution could be implemented in other areas which will improve efficiencies across Council's water network," Mr Clark said.
