Sewer Line Air Test

An sewer line air test for sanitary purposes is a method for detecting leaks in a sewer system using artificial intelligence to analyze data. This approach typically involves a low-pressure air test combined with a specialized inspection tool to provide a more accurate and efficient assessment of the pipe’s condition. 

Benefits of a Sewer Line Air Test

• Removes Tough Buildup: Effectively clears grease, roots, scale, and debris from inside pipes.
• Prevents Clogs and Backups: Clears blockages before they cause serious problems.
• Improves Flow Efficiency: Restores pipe capacity and keeps systems operating smoothly.
• Reduces Maintenance Costs: Extends the life of underground infrastructure by preventing damage.
• Environmentally Safe: Uses water-based, non-chemical cleaning methods.
• Ideal for Preventative Maintenance: Keeps systems in top condition and avoids emergency repairs.

How a sewer line air test works

1. Low-pressure air test: Technicians use inflatable plugs to seal a section of the sewer line between manholes. Low-pressure air (typically 3.5–4.0 psi) is pumped into the sealed section.
2. Pressure stabilization: The air is allowed to stabilize, which accounts for changes in air temperature. The test period begins once the pressure is stable.
3. Monitor pressure drop: Technicians monitor the air pressure drop over a specified period. If the pressure drop exceeds a certain threshold (e.g., more than 1.0 psi), it indicates a leak.
4. Inspection analysis: This is where AI differs from a standard air test. Instead of relying solely on the pressure drop, a tool like Burgess & Niple’s “PipeAId” uses machine learning and computer vision to analyze inspection data from the sewer line. This data can come from sources like CCTV (closed-circuit television) footage.
5. Data processing: The tool processes the inspection data to detect and classify defects, pinpointing the specific location of leaks, cracks, and other issues within a few feet.
6. Detailed report: It generates a comprehensive report that provides an objective and unbiased condition assessment of the pipeline. It can even compare current data with historical data to determine the rate of deterioration