Tiny robots fix underground water pipe leakage without excavation

Scientists at the University of Sheffield have developed miniature robots called Pipebots that can travel inside underground water pipes to detect and repair leaks without the need for excavation. These robots are equipped with advanced acoustic sensors, cameras, and all-terrain legs, allowing them to navigate complex pipe networks and identify faults in real time. This innovation addresses the significant problem of water loss caused by aging infrastructure, particularly in the UK where many pipes date back to the Victorian era. By deploying Pipebots through hydrants, engineers can inspect and monitor pipes more efficiently, potentially saving billions of liters of water and reducing the £4 billion annual cost associated with traditional pipe repairs. The Pipebots project is part of a broader collaborative effort involving universities, water companies, and local authorities, supported by the UK’s Office for Water Services (OFWAT). Current initiatives include inspecting pressurized wastewater pipes without service interruption and developing no-dig leak repair technologies to fix pipes internally, minimizing disruption. The Sheffield team is also engaged in the EU-funded