Water Resources Research Act Program

Principal Investigators: Charles Falmeyog, Shahram Khosrowpanah

Abstract: Water system leakage is a serious problem for all utility agencies throughout the Western Pacific. It reduces the performance of the system and a big money lost for utilities. The development of the modern water distribution system for most of the islands in this area started in 1970. Since then the system has been upgraded through a series of US sponsored capital improvements projects. However, the system leakage for some of these islands is as high as 60%. Utility agencies are suffering from lost revenues and are not able to provide 24- hour water service to their customers. Leak detection is one of the most cost effective and efficient ways to reduce non-revenue water. In fact, a leak detection program should be the highest priority with each utility agency. It is cost effective, and has the immediate result of increasing the system performance. The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Research Advisory Council met in Pohnpei State on October 16, 2014 identified conducting leak detection in Yap State as a high priority under the Education and Professional Training needs for the FSM. We are proposing a one week long training on water system leak detection for Yap State Public Services Corporation (YSPSC). The training will provide an understanding of the leak detection theory, causes, and how to find leaks and fix them. The training will provide a mix of classroom, laboratory and field site training. A summary of the topics that will be presented during the classroom and field site are: 1) Leak detection theory and how to determine when a leaky survey is required, 2) Economic benefits of a leak detection survey, 3) How to incorporate a leak detection survey and/or permanent leak detection crew for your water facility, 4) How to become familiar with various sounds created by leaks and type of leaks encountered, 5) Types of leak detection surveys and proper record keeping, 6) Get familiar with various leak detection equipment and techniques, 7) Field demonstration and actual leak detection scenarios and exercises. This includes field demonstration, general Survey, general Pinpointing, emergency Pinpointing, estimating leakage, reporting, and vehicle setup.