10.1 INTRODUCTION

In Chap. 9 we reviewed the difference between real and apparent losses, and we identified how to calculate the volume and value of the individual losses in Chap. 4. Once the value and nature of the losses have been identified and quantified and economic sustainable limits identified, realistic targets can be set. Once the targets and budgets for intervention have been identified, the most suitable methodologies for reducing and controlling the losses can be identified.

This chapter presents some of the most common practical methods of water loss reduction by active leakage detection. (Other common techniques, using pressure management, are reviewed in Chap. 12.) The diagram at the right shows how improved leakage detection fits in our four-component approach to reducing real losses.

In order to schedule field activities properly, it is first necessary to prioritize the losses. Most utilities have limited budgets, so the methods of intervention with the shortest paybacks are usually the ones that are put into place at the start of the program. In this way the...