This presentation reviews a few of the non-destructive technologies that are commonly
used in conducting condition assessment in water systems. The need for a presentation on the
available technologies becomes evident as utilities implement asset management
principles. The condition assessment step is a key component of the asset management
process and knowing which technology to use is important. Asset management
principles are not new for most utilities except that using a formalized approach provides
a more efficient use of data collected. The formalized process converts data from
condition assessment to implementation of projects based on priorities. The
condition based assessment will demonstrate that information on the actual condition of
the pipe based on field evaluations is more beneficial than information based on
statistical methods. The management of buried infrastructure requires balancing the
performance of the system, the associated risks, and costs required with operational
efficiency, planning requirements, affordable rate structures, security and regulatory
requirements. The decision to replace or repair/rehabilitate pipe should be made based
on actual condition of the pipe in the system. The service life of pipe is variable and
affected by many factors.