Evansville’s Proactive Approach to Maintaining Critical Water Mains

Evansville Water and Sewer Utility (EWSU) owns and operates a 36-in. water prestressed concrete cylinder pipe (PCCP) transmission main that is approximately 6,000 lineal feet in length. This water main was installed in 1954. This water main was installed in downtown Evansville along the Ohio River front. The sandy conditions along the river absorbed water leaks, and a parking garage had been built over a section of this pipeline. The integrity of this crucial pipeline was largely unknown. EWSU hired Pure Technologies, a Xylem brand (Pure Technologies), to perform a condition assessment of the water main to mitigate risk. Electromagnetic technology was used to identify broken wire wraps. This technology enabled inspections while the water main remained under pressure and in service. A forensic analysis was performed to determine root cause. The impacted pipe sections were removed and replaced. Paper outlines the steps taken to extend the remaining useful life of this critical asset.