- +27 (0) 10 446 5705
- gp@orsco.co.za
- Plot 13, RD 5, Brentwoood Park, Gauteng, 1501
At ORSCO, we understand that pipeline safety, reliability, and performance are critical. That’s why we’re proud to offer the SALD Smart Ball Solution – an advanced, AI-powered inspection system that gives you total control over your pipeline infrastructure.
This innovative technology combines a baseball-sized, free-floating multi-sensor device with AI-driven data analytics and the ORSCO Pipeline Viewer, our interactive GIS-based visualisation platform. Together, they provide a complete view of pipeline condition, enabling you to detect, locate, and assess potential issues without interrupting service.
The SALD Smart Ball identifies and locates leaks, air pockets, buildup, and changes in the pipeline wall – all without external reference devices. It’s suitable for drinking water pipelines and wastewater force mains, regardless of diameter or material, and can operate while the pipeline remains in service.
With this level of insight, you can make informed, data-driven decisions on maintenance, repair, and replacement, optimising your pipeline management program for safety, performance, and cost efficiency.
In a single inspection, the SALD Smart Ball collects data on multiple performance factors, delivering a broad overview of pipeline health and integrity. Here’s how it works:
The Smart Ball’s acoustic sensors “listen” for leaks as it flows through the pipeline. Being free-floating, it operates with minimal background noise, providing ultra-sensitive leak detection — if a leak can be heard, the SALD Smart Ball can detect it.
Air or gas pockets can threaten pipeline integrity, particularly in wastewater systems. The Smart Ball detects and locates these pockets with precision, helping you plan maintenance and prevent pressure fluctuations or surges.
With 100 pressure measurements per second, the Smart Ball captures a detailed pressure profile along the full pipeline length. It identifies buildup, blockages, or reduced flow areas, allowing targeted cleaning or rehabilitation.
Using passive tri-axial magnetic flux sensors, the Smart Ball measures magnetic flux density (MFD) inside metallic and non-metallic pipelines. It detects metallic fittings, sleeves, or other magnetic features that may impact performance or require closer inspection.
Following each inspection, results are delivered via the ORSCO Pipeline Viewer (IPV) – a powerful GIS-based portal that brings pipeline data to life.
The interactive satellite map displays the pipeline path, launch and receive points, and all detected features such as leaks, air pockets, or metallic fittings. Each marker can be clicked for detailed information, while the corresponding pipe tally provides an organised breakdown of inspection data.
IPV Map:
Zoom and pan to view the full pipeline route
Filter by inspection results (leaks, gas pockets, buildup, etc.)
Click for detailed feature data or add comments directly
Annotate key areas for maintenance planning
IPV Table:
Scroll and search through all inspection results
Click to zoom to each feature’s exact location
Add notes or comments per entry
Export the complete pipe tally to Excel for recordkeeping
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Maximum Control | Rapid deployment enables fast response when issues are suspected. |
| Continuous Operation | Assess pipelines without interrupting regular service. |
| Multi-Sensor Insights | Gather data on leaks, air pockets, buildup, and wall changes in one run. |
| Cost-Effective | Affordable, user-friendly, and repeatable for regular monitoring. |
| Universal Compatibility | Suitable for all pipeline diameters and materials. |
| Rich Data Library | Build historical datasets for trend analysis and predictive maintenance. |
At ORSCO, our mission is to deliver full visibility across global pipeline infrastructure, ensuring pipeline safety, longevity, and operational efficiency.
The SALD Smart Ball Solution empowers utilities, municipalities, and industrial operators to detect problems early, extend asset life, and plan maintenance with confidence.
From leak detection to full pipeline condition assessment, ORSCO is your trusted partner in pipeline management solutions.
Contact our team today to learn how the SALD Smart Ball Solution can enhance your pipeline inspection and asset management program.
