Severn Trent is trialling a new sensor-based technology called SewerBall® to detect issues in sewer pipes up to three times faster than traditional methods. Developed by French company SUEZ, the floating devices contain sensors that monitor wastewater conditions, such as temperature and pH levels, to identify potential problems.
Some versions of the tennis ball-sized devices include high-resolution cameras for visual inspections, providing clearer assessments of pipe conditions. Unlike conventional CCTV equipment, SewerBall® can move freely through the network, allowing quicker and more efficient surveys.
A two-week trial in Shropshire and Staffordshire successfully inspected 14km of sewage pipes, with 80% of flagged issues confirmed as needing repair. The technology is particularly useful for detecting groundwater infiltration and illegal commercial waste dumping, which strain sewer capacity.
Severn Trent plans to purchase the devices and train a dedicated team for future operations.
