Proactive Knowledge-Based PCCP Asset Management Program

The Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD) oversees over 260 mi of Prestressed Concrete Cylinder Pipe (PCCP) infrastructure used for water transmission to over 30 wholesale customers in the Fort Worth, Texas, area. Over the years, catastrophic failures in these pipes have driven the development of a proactive, knowledge-based asset management strategy. This study examines Phases Two and Three of an investigation into the loss of preload in 72-in. PCCP using Remote Field Technology (RFT). The research aimed to establish a predictive model that correlates wire breaks, preload loss, and pipeline failure risk. Through detailed analysis and experimentation on both testbeds and buried pipelines, the study developed actionable insights that have significantly reduced failure incidents. This paper discusses the methodology, findings, and implications for long-term infrastructure maintenance.