Preliminary tests of sensors to detect sewer network blockages

Sewer blockages are a major problem in cities worldwide; these blockages are usually caused by a combination of fat, oil and grease waste and sanitary items that enter the network. This paper reports on preliminary tests of sensors to detect sewer network blockages in order to develop an advance warning system. Data from an ultrasonic level sensor were somewhat inconsistent while temperature records seem to be make more sense. The data capture level varied from 70-88% compared to what was originally planned, so data gaps are a concern. Further analysis is required along with testing of other sensors to determine which combinations work best.