Australian-first robot trenchless technology

In an Australian-first, Urban Utilities has trialled new robotdelivered trenchless technology which makes water main renewal more efficient, benefitting customers and the environment.

URBAN UTILITIES' WATER PROGRAM MANAGER JONATHAN FARRELL AT THE SITE OF THE AUSTRALIAN-FIRST TRIAL IN SOMERSET IN SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND

The state-of-the-art Resiline technology sprays a rapidcuring lining inside the pipe, relining it underground and removing the need for a traditional ‘lift and lay’ pipe excavation.

Urban Utilities completed the trial with project partners Downer, WSP and Wilsons Pipeline Solutions, rehabilitating a 90m section of underground pipe in Somerset in South East Queensland.

Urban Utilities’ maintenance innovation lead Senthil Kumar said the new trenchless technology had the potential to provide multiple benefits for customers, operations and the environment.

“With this new trenchless technology, works that would have traditionally taken weeks can be completed in just a few days,” Mr Kumar said.

“This helps reduce our overall carbon footprint and can make essential works more cost efficient.

“The technology also has great potential to benefit our customers, particularly those in busy CBD or popular community areas, by allowing us to upgrade vital infrastructure underground without a need to excavate large sections of footpaths or roads.”

Urban Utilities’ water program manager, Jonathan Farrell, said Urban Utilities would investigate how the technology could be used as part of its existing pipeline renewal program following the successful trial.

“We’re responsible for maintaining a network of 9,000km of water pipes that supply water to more than 1.5 million people across South East Queensland and we’re always looking at ways we can improve outcomes for our environment and our customers,” Mr Farrell said.

“This technology is a great example of Urban Utilities’ commitment to innovation and we’re proud to be part of this Australian-first trial.”

URBAN UTILITIES MAINTENANCE INNOVATION LEAD, SENTHIL KUMAR THE RESILINE TECHNOLOGY SPRAYS A LINING INSIDE THE UNDERGROUND PIPE, ADDING UP TO 50 YEARS TO ITS SERVICE LIFE

For further information, please visit urbanutilities.com.au