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At Orsco, we take pride in delivering accurate, efficient, and cost-effective leak detection solutions across Africa and beyond. Using advanced Sewerin technology and decades of field expertise, our teams have successfully identified and resolved complex leak challenges under the most demanding conditions. The following case studies highlight Orsco’s commitment to excellence and technical precision.
How Sewerin’s Equipment Piped Up
As one of South Africa’s leading forces in water conservation and environmental sustainability, Exxaro faced a major challenge when a 2km fire line system at its Lephalale mine failed to hold pressure. A 200mm UPVC pipe was losing 500kPa in just two hours during pressure testing — an issue that needed urgent resolution to meet strict OHS requirements.
Orsco’s leak detection specialist, Stanley Macherechedze, deployed a Sewerin tracer gas detector and acoustic device to locate the leaks with speed and accuracy. By introducing a safe, non-flammable tracer gas composed of nitrogen and hydrogen, the escaping gas was detected at the surface using Sewerin’s highly sensitive instruments. The results were precise and immediate — all leaks were successfully located and repaired.
After re-testing, the fire line system held full pressure, confirming the reliability and accuracy of Sewerin’s technology and Orsco’s technical expertise.
Location: Saudi Arabia
Technician: Lionel Christie
In an international application of Sewerin technology, Orsco’s Lionel Christie successfully traced a small leak in a 300-meter glass fibre pipeline buried under 400mm of concrete and up to 3.5 meters below ground. Using the Sewerin Aquatest T10, Lionel detected the leak by identifying structure-borne sound vibrations caused by escaping water under pressure.
The Aquatest T10 amplified and visually displayed these signals, enabling precise leak location even under challenging site conditions. This project showcased the global applicability and sensitivity of Sewerin’s equipment in complex environments.
Scope of Work:
Leak Detection Survey over 18km in various streets of Diepkloof, Soweto.
Objective:
Before installing prepaid water loggers, the client required a survey to establish the extent of existing leaks to ensure efficient water conservation.
Methodology:
Orsco conducted an acoustic leak detection survey combined with Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to confirm pipe positioning. Due to high daytime noise levels, the survey was performed at night to ensure precision. GPS coordinates were used to map probable leak positions, covering approximately 16,000 meters in total. All work was carried out under strict safety protocols to protect both personnel and equipment.
This project demonstrated Orsco’s ability to execute large-scale municipal leak detection projects under challenging conditions with professionalism and accuracy.
Situation:
Orsco was tasked with locating leaks in a 600mm concrete and steel municipal line in Nampula, Mozambique.
Solution:
Using the Sewerin SeCorrPhon AC06 correlator, the team identified multiple leaks along the pressurized system. Correlation technology measures the time delay between sound waves reaching two sensors, allowing for pinpoint accuracy in locating the leak source.
Unlike traditional correlators, the SeCorrPhon AC06 offers ground microphone functionality within the same device, streamlining the process and increasing on-site efficiency.
This case highlights Orsco’s regional reach and the versatility of Sewerin technology in identifying leaks across different pipeline materials and conditions.
Across industries and borders, Orsco’s expertise and the precision of Sewerin leak detection technology continue to drive measurable results. From mines and municipalities to international infrastructure, our work proves that when it comes to leak detection, accuracy saves time, resources, and the environment.
