Improving Pipeline Asset Inventory Data for Water and Wastewater Systems

Water and wastewater utilities struggle to maintain their pipeline assets due to a lack of available information. Utilities are digitizing their pipeline network inventory based on the information they have. However, since many of their existing mains were installed years ago, the lack of knowledge about pipeline materials, characteristics, and installation methods makes it challenging to prepare an accurate pipeline inventory to support an effective asset management plan. This study provides a thorough review of the characteristics of various pipeline materials primarily utilized in the water and wastewater industry. It also explores reasonable assumptions for the preparation of a comprehensive pipeline inventory. A state-of-the-art review is conducted on pipeline material characteristics. The findings from this review are systematically utilized to clarify the pipeline inventory through an illustrative example.