Comprehensive Condition Assessment of Large Diameter Steel Pipe-The Next Chapter in San Diego County Water Authority's Asset Management Program

摘要

The San Diego County Water Authority operates and maintains the San Diego region's aqueduct delivery system, which consists of approximately 483 kilometers [300 miles] of large-diameter pipelines, more than 1,400 aqueduct-related structures, and over 100 flow-control facilities. These facilities occupy approximately 567 hectares [1,400 acres] within the Water Authority's right of way, and deliver water for over 3 million residents. This paper will examine some of the steps taken by the Water Authority to continue the development of its asset management program. With many years of focus on managing prestressed concrete cylinder pipe (PCCP), the program is now progressively including other pipe types. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, the Water Authority is actively including the comprehensive assessment of critical components of its 204 kilometers [127 miles] of welded steel pipe (WSP) and making long-term projections of remaining life based on data gathered. The paper will describe the process of undertaking comprehensive condition assessments using high-resolution magnetic flux leakage technology, lessons learned, and improvements that were made between projects. The paper will also describe how the Water Authority funds such ventures, and how it uses the collected data to determine remaining life in the context of its entire asset management program.