CSL Cattle Investigation: A Case Study on Water Leak Detection

Is it a leak or a cow?

At Crowders, our specialist leak detection teams work across vast acres of pastoral land to identify and pinpoint potential water leaks. This case study focuses on a particular point of interest (POI) identified during a noise logging activity.

Identifying the Problem:

During the investigation, our leakage technicians noticed a sound coming from a nearby trough. Additionally, the AMR (Automated Meter Reading) meter, which supplies water to a cattle farm, showed consistent movement. Upon speaking with the farmer, we learned the following:

• The farm houses over 200 cows, with three separate troughs to supply water for them to drink water frequently. 

• The AMR meter feeds approximately four troughs as well as the farmhouse.
• In recent months, the cattle were moved into the area served by the AMR meter.
• The farmer also mentioned that he had an unexpectedly high water bill.

Data Collection:

We downloaded the AMR meter’s data using an IR reader for further analysis. When comparing two sets of data, we observed the following:

• Consumption steadily increased over a 20-day period.
• Certain readings in the second data set showed drops to zero.

Analysing the Increase in Consumption:

Several factors could explain the increase in water consumption over the 20-day period:

• The relocation of the cattle to the area served by the AMR meter, significantly increasing water demand.
• Warmer weather conditions, which led to the cattle drinking more water.
• Fluctuations in the meter's readings, where some values dropped to zero temporarily.

To better understand the cause, we examined the consumption graph. While the increase could be due to the above factors, we couldn't immediately confirm if a leak was the cause. So, we decided to investigate further.

Further Investigation:

We returned to the site and conducted additional leakage detection, using top sounding along the suspected line of noise near one of the troughs to pinpoint the suspected leak’s location.

After thorough investigation, we were pleased to discover a leak that was running into a field drain. Thanks to the persistence of our team, we were able to help the farmer significantly reduce his water bill and prevent further loss of potable water.

Leak Repair and Results:

Following the repair of the leak, we observed a sharp drop in consumption on the AMR meter’s graph. The readings almost returned to zero, providing clear evidence that the leak had been the main cause of the gradual increase in water consumption over the 20-day period.

Key Takeaways:

• Don’t Overinterpret Initial Data: It's crucial to avoid jumping to conclusions based on a few data points.
• AMR Data is Best Visualised in Graphs: Graphs provide clearer insights into trends and anomalies.
• Large Herds can Mimic DMA Patterns: A large number of cattle, especially in warmer weather, can create patterns similar to those seen in a District Metered Area (DMA). However, consumption should remain lower during the night, as shown in the graph.