With Metro Pacific Iloilo Water’s aggressive campaign to bring down its water losses, the water utility has started using the Tyfo Fibrwrap Pipe (TFP) Rehabilitation System for its pipe repair operations in Carpenters Bridge.
MPIW is the first water utility company in Western Visayas to use this technology which allows the repair of a primary pipeline without interrupting the water supply service during its leak repair operations.
Given that the pipe is a critical asset to meet the water demand of 4,700 customers in Molo, Arevalo, and City Proper, it is not practical to implement the conventional approach of replacing every pipe segment. Instead, MPIW implemented an innovative trenchless technology using a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer strengthening material to externally repair the pipe and structurally rehabilitate the 37-year-old, 600mm water pipe.
MPIW Chief Operating Officer Robert Cabiles said ,“the complete assessment found that the pipe still meets the 150 psi test pressure, but it also identified significant problems, including several pipe sections in an advanced state of distress requiring immediate repair to prevent further water losses and water quality issues. Many options for rehabilitation were considered and the Tyfo Fibrwrap system was selected due to system reliability, shorter repair schedule, and its flexible installation processes.”
Through the combination of innovative trenchless technology and repair methods, MPIW is able to safely renew a vital piece of infrastructure while minimizing expense and impact to Esplanade River.
“We want to recover more water for our customers at the soonest possible time without causing interruption to our customers, to property and environment so we are constantly on the lookout for technologies and innovations that will allow us to do this” added Cabiles
This 2024, MPIW allotted approximately Php 400 million for its Non-Revenue Water (NRW)or Systems Loss Reduction Program.
The rehabilitation of the Carpenters Bridge Pipe crossing with a total project cost of Php 15 Million is expected to be completed next month.
