October 2014, Vol. 69, No. 10
Rehabilitation
Aclara Develops STAR ZoneScan
STAR ZoneScan, developed by Aclara, is an advanced automated detection system that can pinpoint underground leaks in water mains to within just three feet by collecting and analyzing acoustic data, thus helping to speed repair and identify trouble spots before they become major problems.
STAR ZoneScan automates the collection, retrieval and analysis of acoustic data gathered throughout the water system, listening for and recording vibrations in the quiet early hours when factors affecting leak noise are minimized. The system combines the strengths of leak-intelligence units with Aclara’s two-way, fixed-network automated metering infrastructure (AMI) technology that incorporates two-way communication between the utility head-end and endpoints and time-synchronized initiation of sound recordings. Central to the system are highly sensitive acoustic data loggers that are deployed at regular intervals on valves throughout the water-distribution network. The devices monitor the noise characteristics within the pipe network and send this information back to the water utility.
Data from individual leak-intelligence units is automatically correlated to pinpoint the presence and the location of leaks. Web-based application software correlates the data between loggers and provides visual identification of high probability leak locations. Repair crews can then be dispatched to the site with confidence that leak locations have been identified. Additionally, the accuracy of the system reduces the amount of digging required to access the leak, thus saving cost and speeding repairs.
The STAR ZoneScan system provides critical information with only minimal operator involvement. Once the units are installed, operators can monitor the system and analyze results at the utility office. No manual or drive-by data collection is required. STAR ZoneScan can be deployed as a stand-alone system or added on to an existing STAR network AMI system. 800.297.2728, Aclara.com
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