A 9km recycled water pipeline in the Murray Bridge region has been cleared using specialised ice pigging technology, restoring flows and improving water reliability for local irrigators.
SA Water deployed a giant slushy “ice pig” through the pipeline to remove sediment build-up that had been restricting recycled water flows.
The blockage had reduced the amount of recycled water reaching a storage lagoon used for agricultural irrigation, resulting in excess water being released near the Brinkley Wastewater Treatment Plant.
The nine-day project targeted sediment accumulation within the pipeline, including a section running beneath the River Murray.
SA Water said it selected ice pigging as a low-risk alternative to conventional pigging methods because the semi-solid ice mixture can navigate bends and constricted sections while applying minimal pressure to existing infrastructure.
SA Water Senior Manager of Field Operations Matt Minagall said the technology provided an effective way to clean the pipeline while protecting sensitive infrastructure and the surrounding environment.
“Ice pigging allowed us to clean this important pipeline effectively without disrupting customers or placing additional strain on the pipe,” Minagall said.
“Because the ice is pliable, it can move through bends and narrowed sections, gently wiping away build-up as it goes.”
The technology was developed and delivered by SUEZ, SA Water’s Production and Treatment Alliance partner. Unlike conventional mechanical pigs, the ice mixture melts if it encounters an obstruction, reducing the risk of damage to the pipeline.
The pipeline was cleaned in multiple sections, with approximately 10t of ice passing through each section in less than two hours. Areas containing heavier sediment deposits were treated twice.
All material removed during the cleaning process was collected in tankers to prevent environmental impacts.
Minagall said the project demonstrated how innovative maintenance techniques can help utilities maximise the performance of existing infrastructure.
“The project shows how using different methods can help get more value from existing infrastructure and support customer outcomes.”
