Overview
Detecting leaks in water pipe networks—whether underground, inside service lines or utility distribution systems—requires precision, mobility and strong documentation. The AQUAPHON A 200 is a professional acoustic leak detection system designed to support both rapid pre-location and accurate pinpointing of leaks.
This case study outlines how the device improves leak detection workflows, boosts efficiency and supports water-loss reduction programmes.
Challenge
Water distribution networks and indoor/outdoor service connections often present:
- Hidden leaks in buried or covered pipelines
- Difficult-to-access fittings and connections
- Background noise, varying surfaces and complex terrain
- The need for consistent documentation of leak locations
These conditions demand a mobile, high-sensitivity detection system capable of guiding even less-experienced operators to reliable results.
Solution – AQUAPHON A 200
The AQUAPHON A 200 delivers a combination of advanced sensor technology, intuitive user interface and robust field design.
Key Strengths
- High-quality piezo-microphones optimised for detecting leak-noise vibrations.
- Wireless system components (receiver, carrying rod, headphones) for cable-free mobility.
- Large colour touchscreen display showing frequency spectrum and minimum noise level (MNL) metrics.
- Integrated GNSS (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS) for accurate geographic documentation of leak events.
- Guidance features and automated filter suggestions to assist less experienced users.
- Rugged, field-ready design (IP65/IP67 rated) for reliability in harsh environments.
The combination of these features enables water network operators, service contractors and utilities to locate leaks accurately, document them comprehensively, and optimise repair workflows.
Implementation
The AQUAPHON A 200 was deployed in routine inspection programmes covering:
- Pre-location scanning of service lines or distribution mains
- Pinpointing exact leak zones for excavation or repair
- Indoor/outdoor pipeline inspections with varying surface types
- Documentation of findings for maintenance records and water-loss tracking
Operators set up the device, selected appropriate microphone modules (ground microphones for buried pipelines, touch microphone for fittings), and used the GNSS tagging and audio-recording functions to log each detected leak event.
The wireless, ergonomic design allowed technicians to move freely around manholes, valve chambers, access roads or paving without cable interference.
Results
1. Improved Leak Detection Accuracy
Leak noises were captured and quantified via minimum noise level (MNL) readings and frequency analysis, enabling accurate localisation even in noisy environments.
2. Enhanced Mobility & Efficiency
Wireless operation and intuitive user interface reduced setup time and operator fatigue, enabling more inspections per day.
3. Comprehensive Documentation
With GNSS-tagged leak events, audio samples and automatic filter settings, the inspection results were validated and traceable—supporting asset-management and water-loss reduction reporting.
4. Versatility Across Conditions
Whether on paved surfaces, gravel roads or indoor service rooms, the system adapted with interchangeable microphone modules and filter presets, reducing the need for multiple devices.
5. User-Friendly Operation
Built-in guidance and visual feedback allowed technicians with varying experience levels to produce consistent results and reduced training overhead.
Conclusion
The AQUAPHON A 200 is a high-performance acoustic water leak detection system that combines precision, flexibility and field-ready design. Organisations focused on reducing water loss, improving maintenance workflows, and documenting leak-detection results will find it to be a valuable tool in their arsenal.
Its adoption leads to increased detection accuracy, faster inspection cycles and improved data integrity—making it an excellent choice for water utilities, network operators and specialist service providers.