HETEK Solutions Inc

Step Testing

Step testing procedures are performed to ascertain exact leakage volumes. Using data loggers and temporary meters such as insertion or ultrasonic meters (which do not interfere with normal system operation) we monitor all feeds into a system or district. During minimum night flow period a series of metered valve closures identify areas of high usage or leakage.  HETEK Solutions Inc. works closely with the client's staff to identify any major consumers or dialysis patients who should not be shut down. The step test also provides an effective way of checking traditionally hard to find leak situations such as PVC systems.

Any leakage, which may not be detected up by traditional methods will be identified and can be scheduled for advanced leak detection procedures.   Water distribution system leakage has been an old age problem. Locating leakage in large systems requires coordination of resources to be effective. Large systems tend to have areas with substantial background noise as well as non-metallic pipe that does not transmit sound waves as well as metallic pipe. These systems require innovative techniques and procedures to locate leakage.   HETEK Solutions Inc. has made Zone Flow Step Testing within a District Metering Area (DMA) our specialty.

The program breaks down the larger areas into smaller isolated metering areas. As these areas are just smaller distribution systems, the flow trend can be metered using data acquisition equipment for each DMA. The minimum night flows are evaluated against theoretical legitimate usage within that DMA. If there is certainty that there is sufficient leakage for that DMA, Step Testing will be performed within that DMA to localize any leakage potential. This is done by closing down predetermined zones inside the isolated DMA. After each section closure, re-evaluation of the recordable night flows is conducted to see if the amount of estimated leakage is found. This allows for quick and immediate decision making by the client in order to control the costs of the leakage survey. Estimated leakage potential within each isolated DMA and each subsection within that DMA will be known.

As the DMA's are set up and evaluated, HETEK Solutions Inc. will be able to determine leakage areas and which areas should be concentrated on. If the Zone Flow/Step Testing procedures are conducted properly, leak search efforts will be minimized and water loss volumes will be known prior to conducting leak search activities.