South West Water Trials AI to Detect Sewer Blockages and Pollution

South West Water is trialling artificial intelligence (AI) to tackle one of the biggest challenges facing the water industry: blockages and pollution. By combining smart tools with advanced research, the company hopes to keep its network flowing smoothly.

12,000 ‘pairs of eyes’ across the region

Around twelve thousand smart sensors are already in use across the South West, installed in manholes on the sewer network. Acting like “pairs of eyes”, they constantly collect data on flow patterns and detect early signs of blockages that could cause pollution or flooding.

Richard Price, South West Water’s Managing Director for Waste Water Services, said:

“The AI acts like a digital detective. It learns what ‘normal’ looks like for each part of the network and spots when something’s wrong even before a human could notice. This means teams can be sent out to the exact location of a suspected blockage, often before customers are even aware of an issue.”

📷Sewer Level Monitor being installed

Faster detection with cameras and AI

Alongside the sensors, high-definition cameras are used to inspect sewer pipes for cracks, root intrusions, and blockages. This information is then developed into AI tools by experts at the University of Exeter.

Richard Everson, Professor of Machine Learning at the University of Exeter, said:

“It’s fantastic to see new research from the University of Exeter on modern AI processing coming into practical use for inspecting underground waste water pipes. By using these technologies together, there’s great potential to make wastewater networks smarter and more resilient.”

Prevention instead of cure

The AI trials are designed to help South West Water focus on prevention rather than waiting to fix problems once they occur. This approach could protect the environment from pollution incidents while reducing costly repairs.

Everyday habits also play a role. Items like wet wipes, cotton buds, sanitary products, and fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are often disposed of down sinks and toilets. These materials do not break down easily, creating stubborn blockages that restrict pipe capacity and increase the risk of overflows, especially during heavy rainfall.

Josh Myrans, Data Scientist at South West Water, explained how collaboration is at the heart of the project:

“This project is a great example of what can happen when experts from different fields come together. With support from UK Research & Innovation, and in partnership with the University of Exeter, iTouch Systems, and the Water Research Centre, we’re using advanced AI alongside decades of engineering knowledge to tackle a huge challenge. By improving how sewer surveys are done, we’re helping deliver faster, more accurate results.”

📷Fat build up in pipe

Future proofing with smart cameras

Looking ahead, South West Water is also piloting Smart AI Cameras at Sewage Treatment Works. These use machine learning to detect anomalies or changes, such as flooding or faults, helping teams respond more quickly.

📷Roots in pipe