For Immediate Release
2002-08-21
For further information contact:
Allen Lucas, Utilities Engineer, 546-1181 ext. 2250 or Jim Miller, Utilities Technical Services Manager, 546-1181 ext. 2475
VIDEO & SONAR TECHNOLOGY
AID IN SEWER INSPECTION
Utilities Kingston continues to seek out and use innovative technologies for investigating the condition of the City of Kingston's underground infrastructure.
The water and sewer pipes in the City vary in age from newly installed pipes to pipes that are up to 100 years old. Managing the infrastructure and assessing the condition can often be a challenge as there is very little of the pipes that are visible. In order to get a better look at some of the trunk sewer pipes, Utilities Kingston has retained the engineering consultant M. E. Andrews and Associates Limited.
Mr. Andrews has teamed with an international company to bring to Kingston a specialized sewer inspection camera. A floating video camera is coupled with a sonar unit which is used to televise and record the condition of trunk sewers which are typically running half full or more with waste water. This provides a very good indication of the condition of the pipe and influences of excess water which may be entering the system to enable decisions to be made about rehabilitation and replacement.
Utilities Kingston will be inspecting the Harbour Front Trunk Sewer from West Street to the River Street Pumping Station. This section of infrastructure was constructed in the 1950's and is currently the focus of an Environmental Assessment being completed which will alleviate the problems with sewer overflows in the area. The information collected will be used in the assessment of options for the trunk sewer and to aid in the planning for maintenance or repairs.
"To be able to use innovative and emerging technologies to assist in our planning for ways to improve our infrastructure and the environment for the benefit of City of Kingston residents is exciting," commented Utilities Kingston President and CEO, Jim Keech. "The information collected will be added to our current knowledge and understanding to better plan for infrastructure renewal", he added.
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