FWRC Presentation: Bend Don't Break - Using Machine Learning To Predict Pipeline Failures

Per AWWA more than US$1.7 trillion is needed to replace failing pipelines. As utilities are working to maintain pace with expanding services areas, the existing pipelines can be neglected due to the priority of serving new customers. Thus, water utilities with limited funding and resources are struggling to be proactive about existing pipeline rehabilitation and replacements. This deferral of pipeline replacement is directly leading to the increasing frequency of main breaks and of disrupted water services.

This presentation will address data-driven approaches that drive pipeline replacement programs. By using machine learning based pipeline risk tools, utilities can be more informed on what pipes to investigate, which ones to monitor, and what to fix. At the end of this discussion audience members should walk away with:

• A historical overview and the approaches taken for pipeline replacement strategies to date and how they compare
• An overview of a new approach augmented by machine learning and how it provides advantages
• A demonstration of an example data set to show the process and value to utilities
• Tools for a communication strategy for how to visualize and discuss with different stakeholders.
  
  

Presentation:

Monday, April 25 at 4:00 PM
Session 11, Track B - Distribution System

Speakers:

Andrew Swirsky, PE, PMP
Client Solutions Manager
Xylem

Andrew Swirsky is the US-Southeast manager for the Decision Intelligence Solutions team at Xylem. Andrew holds a Civil Engineering degree from Texas A&M University, is a licensed Professional Engineer in multiple states include Florida and is Azure and AWS cloud certified. Andrew has been solving water distribution problems for water utilities for over a decade. His current focus is on smart water solutions and leveraging data to make the best decisions for water and wastewater systems.

Peter Kraft
Senior Solution Architect
Xylem

Peter currently serves as Senior Solution Architect for Xylem Inc. where he helps to support the design and implementation of optimized work and asset management (APO) solutions and services. He has spent over 17 years in the water utility and asset management field and brings a wide array of experience. Peter is seen as a thought leader within the water industry serving as a member for the AWWA Asset Management Advisory Committee, Co-Chair of the AWWA Innovation Committee and as a long-time advisor for the Sustainable Infrastructure Water Management (SWIM) based out of Virginia Tech. He holds a Master’s degree in Urban Planning and GIS from the University of Colorado and a BA from Colby College, in Maine.

Don’t forget to visit Xylem Water Solutions in Booth #306. Visit the FWRC conference website to register.