A tablet-based leakage detection system has been launched by technology company Ovarro and will allow the ability to access network information on tablets and smartphones as part of the digitalisation of the water sector, Chris Moore who is the company’s product line manager has revealed.

The leak noise correlator Eureka5 is set to be the basis for Ovarro’s leak detection platform. The system displays information on an android tablet and is said to not require a dedicated processor or laptop, cutting down the number of devices field teams need to have in their vans.

Digitisation is the main driver of the transition as consumers increasingly use smartphones and tablets – and water companies are slowly replicating this shift, accelerated by the skills of digital natives joining the sector.

“This has made the development and implementation of smart, user-friendly technology easier and faster. At the same time, the cost of these technologies also decreases due to higher demand,” said Moore.

 About Eureka5

In terms of hardware, Eureka5 comprises two radio transmitters: a radio receiver with signal-processing electronics which interconnects with the bespoke Eureka Go app, as well as Ovarro’s existing cloud-based portal, PrimeWeb. GPS technology enables precise pinpointing of leaks, including in difficult conditions, such as where there is substantial background noise, where only the quietest of leak noise is present and on a variety of pipe materials, including plastic.

Eureka5 enables users to listen to noise on the pipe, upload this data directly to Eureka Go and view the data instantly on a tablet, rather than the bespoke processing unit used previously. As well as simpler functionality for operators, who Ovarro liaised with closely when developing the product, the solution reduces capex costs.

“Smart networks are already significantly improving leakage performance. The ability to carry out multiple tasks on just one device will further streamline processes, making processes simpler and faster for operators,” said Moore.

Looking forward to the water industry’s 2025-2030 asset management period – AMP 8 – we can expect a full rollout of app-based network management tools, all accessible on a single tablet or smartphone.