Overview
Detecting and locating leaks in underground water pipelines is a major challenge for network operators, service contractors and utilities. The SeCorr® C 200 is a high-performance correlator designed to deliver fast, accurate leak location in buried pipelines of various materials and diameters. This case study demonstrates how the device optimises leak-detection workflows, reduces unnecessary excavations, and supports asset-management objectives.
Challenge
Pipeline networks—especially underground distribution mains or service connections—often present:
- Hidden leaks generating acoustic signals along long pipeline runs
- Complex pipe material mixes (metal, plastic, etc.) and differing diameters
- Background noise and interference that obscure leak signals
- The need for clear, excavation-ready results and reliable documentation
The requirement: a portable, rugged, highly accurate correlating device that can quickly pinpoint leaks and guide repair efforts with confidence.
Solution – SeCorr® C 200
The SeCorr® C 200 brings advanced correlation technology and intuitive operation to the field.
Key Strengths
- Equipped with high-quality piezo-microphones optimised for acoustic detection of leak noise along pipelines
- Intelligent firmware that automates measurement, applies appropriate filters, and suppresses interfering correlation peaks for clearer results
- Integrated sound-velocity measurement to enhance accuracy in varying pipe conditions
- Robust case design and field-ready operation (can be used while wearing gloves)
- Simple user interface that displays the leak position directly, avoiding complex curve interpretation
- Documentation-capable via dedicated software for logging and archiving results
With the SeCorr® C 200, technicians can correlate acoustic signals at two points along the pipeline, use known pipe length/material/diameter to calculate leak location, and confidently plan excavation or repair.
Implementation
Deployment of the SeCorr® C 200 was integrated into routine leak-detection programmes covering:
- Underground distribution mains and service pipelines of varying materials
- Pre-excavation leak pinpointing to minimise digging and disruption
- Routine leak-survey workflows requiring reproducible documentation
- Mixed-environment operations where pipe material and noise conditions vary
Technicians set the device at two measuring points along the pipeline, the system measured the acoustic signal travel time difference, applied its filter technology, calculated the leak position and logged the result. The system’s rugged design and intuitive interface enabled fast deployment, even in less-favourable conditions.
Results
1. Accurate Leak Localisation
The SeCorr® C 200 produced clear measurement results with calculated leak positions rather than ambiguous curves—enabling targeted excavation and faster repair.
2. Reduced Unnecessary Excavation
With precision positioning, fewer exploratory digs were needed, saving time and cost.
3. Enhanced Workflow Efficiency
Automated measurement procedures and intuitive display reduced the operator learning curve and enabled quicker field deployment.
4. Strong Documentation
Leak events and correlator outputs were logged via the companion software, supporting traceability, asset-management and reporting.
5. Versatility Across Pipe Types
The device handled different pipe materials and diameters with a high degree of consistency, enabling one tool to cover a wide range of detection tasks.
Conclusion
The SeCorr® C 200 represents a reliable, precision instrument for underground water leak detection via acoustic correlation. Its combination of advanced filtering, measurement automation, rugged design and documentation readiness makes it a strong solution for utilities, network operators and service providers focused on reducing water losses and optimising repair workflows.
Adopting this tool can lead to more accurate detections, fewer disruptive excavations and improved operational efficiency in leak-detection programmes.