Researchers develop AI to help South West Water detect pipeline problems

The University of Exeter is working with South West Water to explore the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to help tackle pipe blockages and pollution.

Across the region, around 12,000 smart sensors are sewer level monitors, acting as ‘pairs of eyes’, constantly collecting data such as changes in flow patterns. They are installed in manholes on the sewer network and monitor issues like early signs of blockages that could cause pollution in the watercourses or flooding on land or in properties.

Richard Price, South West Water’s Director for Waste Water Services said: “The AI acts like a digital detective. It learns what ‘normal’ looks like for each part of the network and spots when something’s wrong even before a human could notice. This means teams can be sent out to the exact location of a suspected blockage, often before customers are even aware of an issue.”

Faster detection

High-definition cameras inspect the inside of pipes, looking for cracks, blockages, or signs of wear and tear. Researchers at the University of Exeter use this information to develop artificial intelligence (AI) tools, which will help South West Water detect problems earlier and respond more quickly.

Richard Everson, Professor of Machine Learning at the University of Exeter, who is working in partnership with South West Water said: “It’s fantastic to see new research from the University of Exeter on modern AI processing coming into practical use for inspecting underground waste-water pipes. By using these technologies together, there’s great potential to make wastewater networks smarter and more resilient.”

Prevention instead of cure

The AI trial is helping South West Water understand how it can move towards greater prevention rather than cure. This not only protects the environment from pollution incidents, it also has the potential to save money on costly repairs which is better for customers.

Josh Myrans, Data Scientist at South West Water who’s leading the project, said: “This project is a great example of what can happen when experts from different fields come together. With support from UK Research & Innovation, and in partnership with the University of Exeter, iTouch Systems, and the Water Research Centre, we’re using advanced AI alongside decades of engineering knowledge to tackle a huge challenge. By improving how sewer surveys are done, we’re helping deliver faster, more accurate results.”

Future proofing

And there’s more to come. Looking to the future, South West Water’s plans from 2025 to 2030 include:

• More sensors across the sewer network to detect early signs of blockages or flooding
• AI tools that can predict when and where storm overflows might happen – helping to prevent pollution.
• Smart alarms that can pick up on bursts or leaks blockages in key pipes before they cause major supply disruption.

This project is supported by the NIRH Exeter Biomedical Research Centre (BRC)