Innovation Exchange challenge: No dig measurement of pipe condition to ascertain the remaining lifespan of pressurised ferrous pipelines

Background

The challenge holder is a major UK water company with a substantial network of underground pipes. Certain of these are ferrous pipes (cast iron, spun iron, steel and ductile iron) and often quite old and used to pump effluent (Rising Mains).

Many are suffering from degradation due to corrosion (both external and biogenic) and ground movements, exacerbated by fatigue/shock transients from pump operation, with severe implications of failure.  Corrosion arises from the aggressive nature of the line contents, breakdowns in protective linings, and failures of external protective wraps allowing exposure to saturated soil.

The challenge seeks to find more efficient methods of reliably assessing these pipes so that maintenance and replacement can be planned to reduce disruption and the carbon cost associated with emergency repairs.

Eligibility & Assessment Criteria

Entrants to this competition must be:

• Established businesses, academic institutions, start-ups, SMEs, or individual entrepreneurs
• UK based or have the intention to set up a UK base

Rewards & Market Opportunity

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to present to the challenge holder.

Selected solutions will have the opportunity, subject to satisfying commercial terms, to being trialled with a view to adoption if successful.

Lower TRL solutions that could offer a significant benefit may be considered for collaborative R&D programmes and other funding routes

The benefits package for a successful applicant may also include:

• Support from Innovate UK Business Connect
• Support in the development of a prototype or pilot
• Technical support
• Invitation to attend or present at UK Business Connect events
• A potential business collaboration
• Investor introductions (if investment is required)
• Potential support to qualifying SMES from Innovate UK Business Growth
• Support if any Innovate or similar competitions are relevant.