Cost Effectiveness of Inflow/Infiltration Remedial Works Anthony

The Water Corporation, like many water utilities, is attempting to address the issue of freshwater entering the wastewater system, known collectively as inflow and infiltration. To aid in this endeavour, this project has involved an assessment on the effectiveness of past remedial attempts including pipe refurbishment and smoke testing for illegal connections. It has also involved a quantification of the impact of existing flows on wastewater assets and the risk these flows pose to overflow events. Catchments over the entire metropolitan area were investigated and had their inflow/infiltration quantified in order to determine significant contributing factors such as soil conditions and pipe materials. Informed by these factors, this project then took on a theoretical perspective,by quantifying the potential spread of inflow/infiltration sources, such as illegal stormwater connections, required to cause observed patterns of excessive rain derived flow. Finally, with the support of all the information gathered, a cost benefit analysis is being carried out to assess the cost and potential benefits associated with different management options available to the Corporation. Final recommendations will be based on their financial, operational, environmental and social merit