Thames Water has gone out to tender with an AMP7/8 contract for no dig leak repair technology worth an estimated £4.5 million.
In partnership with the other UK water companies, Thames Water is looking to develop an innovative 'no dig leak repair' technology to fix leaks on water mains without the need to dig a hole.
The utility is looking to engage an interested delivery partner(s) to develop their initial idea for submission to the Ofwat Innovation Fund - the potential wider adoption of the technology in the UK water sector is contingent on the outcome of this project.
Thames said that the solution is likely to require input across a number of competencies (engineering, robotics, science/academia) and it may benefit from a consortium. The water company is looking to appoint a maximum of two partners to the framework agreement - a consortium would be considered a single operator.
The solution is expected to be an in-pipe device capable of live insertion and retrieval via standard fittings on drinking water networks, e.g. hydrants. The device would need to travel a distance through the water main, locate and characterise the failure, and effect a local repair - without the need to interrupt the supply.
Thames Water is looking for bidders who can demonstrate a high degree of competency in the design, development and operation of an in-pipe device that can perform the following core functions:
- insertion
- movement
- sensing
- leak repair
- and retrieval.
Outlining its requirements, Thames Water said that solving this problem will present the successful organisation with an opportunity to solve a problem costing the UK and international water companies millions of pounds each year as well the cost, disruption and environmental impact of road works.
Initial contract term is three years with an option to extend up to a maximum term of eight years in total.
Time limit for receipt of tenders or requests to participate is 10 March 2023 – click here to access the tender documentation.
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