Safeguard investments and prioritize renewals with p-CAT.

The non-invasive, non-destructive long-distance pipeline assessment solution.

understand the present | protect the future

Transforms long-distance pipeline evaluations.

Developed over 17 years by the University of Adelaide, p-CAT™ and p-CAT™ infinity are non-invasive, non-destructive tools that employ patented inverse transient analysis, providing detailed sub-sectional analyses in 30-foot increments. With applications in pressurized water mains and force mains, p-CAT™ strikes an effective balance between expensive invasive solutions and other non-invasive methods, offering utilities a comprehensive and strategic approach to managing their assets.

A cost-effective solution for long-distance pipeline assessments.

Understanding pipeline conditions allows for strategic and tactical decisions. p-CAT™ and p-CAT™ infinity provide a comprehensive solution to large and small-diameter pipe condition assessment using non-invasive, non-destructive technology.

p-CAT™ is a reliable and safe method of performing pipe condition assessment while the system is in operation. It is often described as a pipe screening tool as long sections (many miles) can be quickly tested to identify small localized “hot spots” out of thousands of feet of pipe.

The technology uses a unique patented and proven technique of inverse transient analysis to measure and determine the internal and external condition of pipelines. p-CAT™ can be applied to all metallic, concrete, and AC (asbestos cement) pipes and has been developed through over 17 years of research and development by the University of Adelaide, Australia.

This non-invasive, non-destructive pipe condition assessment solution addresses the challenges faced by technologies that are currently being employed. p-CAT™ and p-CAT™ infinity strike an effective balance between expensive invasive solutions, and other non-invasive solutions lacking granular visibility.

Uses:

Water systems: pressurized transmission mains: p-CAT^tm
Water systems: pressurized distribution mains: p-CAT^tm infinity
Wastewater systems: pressurized force mains: p-CAT^tm

Non-invasive, non-disruptive pipeline condition assessment.

Designed to be cost-effective for both large and small-scale pipeline assessments, p-CAT™ goes beyond traditional methods, providing a detailed sub-sectional analysis that transforms how utilities manage assets. It can locate defects in pipelines, limiting repairs and replacements to only sections in need of attention, extending the life of system assets, and deferring replacement.

p-CAT™ is a non-invasive and non-destructive technology. It’s suitable for all large-diameter pressurized pipes and applicable to potable, raw, and wastewater pipes. During the assessment process, p-CAT™ does not disrupt the pipeline or operation as there is no invasive access to the main. p-CAT™ infinity expands this capability to small diameter distribution mains and permits the test to be completed efficiently using system fire hydrants as connection points and without the need to utilize distribution system valves for isolation.

When comparing average condition assessment with p-CAT™ sub-sectional analysis, a significant difference is apparent. While average wall thickness measures the condition between two test points, p-CAT™’s approach offers a detailed sub-sectional analysis in 30-foot increments along the entire tested pipe length. This heightened level of scrutiny empowers engineers and owners to strategically prioritize their rehabilitation and replacement budget with precision.

How p-CAT™ works.

p-CAT™ operates by introducing a controlled pressure wave into the pipeline, meticulously tracked by sensors installed on existing pipe fittings. The transient wave experiences partial reflection when it encounters any change in pipeline structure. These changes include known system components and other concerning issues related to pipe deterioration.

The pressure signal is analyzed by examining the response of the transient wave to the pipeline system to determine all anomalies.

p-CAT™ analysis uses two main techniques:

Sub-sectional pipeline condition assessment – Assessing the level of pipe deterioration in a sub-section with various resolutions down to 30 feet.
Localized fault detection – Identifies and provides analysis of significant anomalies such as air pockets, blockages, the sealing status of valves, and unknown pipeline features.

p-CAT™ detects, measures, and locates:

Internal cement lining loss (spalling)
Wall loss measurement to < 0.2mm wall accuracy
Pipe material changes
Cement matrix loss from AC pipes
Internal blockages and restrictions
Air & gas pockets
Assessment of closed or partially closed valves
Unknown connections

Brochure:

Pipeline condition assessment technology (p-CAT) brochure (2 MB)

Case Studies:

p-CAT case study – Virginia Beach, VA (300 KB)

p-CAT infinity case study – Clearwater FL (1.1 MB)

p-CAT case study – Columbus, OH (311 KB)

p-CAT case study – Aurora, CO (337 KB)

p-CAT validation report (9 MB)

Decades of data expertise

As an ESRI Silver Partner, our technology center is home to a dedicated team of over 70 full-time GIS professionals who bring a wealth of expertise in the development of client dashboards. These specialists have decades of experience working with client infrastructure data from across the country providing client information management, infrastructure program analytics, and value-driven reporting.