Written from the field by Senior Project Engineer Oliver Port
When early detection prevents bigger problems
During a recent controlled trial on a rising sewer main, we introduced a leak representing just 1% of the reference flow. Despite the small leak rate, Atmos Sentinel detected the event using three independent algorithms. This result demonstrated the system’s ability to capture even low-level anomalies with accuracy and consistency.
Full leak detection confidence from a 1% leak test
The test was designed to challenge the system. The line was shut in for over 11 minutes and a small leak was opened at an estimated 0.33 liters per second which is well below the typical detection range of many systems.
Atmos Sentinel flagged the event using three separate detection methods:
- Rapid leak detection: identified a distinct pressure drop at the point the leak opened
- Low pressure detection: registered sustained pressure below the normal operating threshold
- Rate of pressure decay: detected a gradual drop in average line pressure over the shut-in period
These three independent responses (see Figures 1 and 2) confirmed Atmos Sentinel’s sensitivity and showed that water utilities can rely on its multilayered approach to detection, even at the very lowest leak rates trialed.
Figure 1: Rapid leak detection response during the calibration test. Atmos Sentinel registered a pressure drop under shut-in conditions at the moment the 1% leak was opened.
Figure 2: Low pressure and pressure decay detection triggered by the same 1% leak (these trends show 5 minute average data to save battery and comms). All three detection methods activated independently, confirming leak presence despite the minimal water loss.
Why multimethod detection matters
In live wastewater environments, there’s rarely a single indicator that confirms a leak. Pressure fluctuations, transient conditions and operational noise can all obscure signals. Atmos Sentinel’s ability to cross-reference multiple data patterns provides several advantages:
- Greater confidence in alarm validity
- Reduced likelihood of false positives
- A clearer picture for investigation and response
Proactive insight for difficult assets
Leaks of this size are unlikely to be visible above ground or identified during routine inspections. On rising mains with limited access, proactive detection becomes essential.
Being able to identify a 1% leak under shut-in conditions shows that the Atmos Sentinel isn’t just effective for major failures. It is also equipped to support asset health monitoring by highlighting early signs of deterioration before they become critical.