API Completes hydrant entry pipe assessment project to pre survey pipelines prior to slip lining
API successfully completed surveys on numerous potable water pipelines located in the UK, working with a pipe lining contractor using a pressurised acoustic camera system to confirm pipe configuration on different pipe sizes and materials.
The Hydrocam™ system was used to inspect internal pipe condition and configuration under pressure, with one pipeline dated more than 60 years old. The unique feature of this system is that it enters a pipeline via a standard type 2 fire hydrant, without excavation trial holes, or the need to swap these fittings out to through bore fire hydrants.
Pre-surveying is critically important before lining pipes to accurately assess the pipe’s condition, identify structural problems, and determine the suitability of pipe relining for the specific situation. Without a pre-survey, technicians may miss underlying issues like corrosion, cracks, severe bends & blockages that would prevent proper liner adhesion or lead to future failures. This crucial inspection step especially under pressure, allows for a tailored repair strategy, ensures proper pre cleaning, and safeguards the long-term integrity and efficiency of the lined pipe.
The PIPA system is part of a wider range of industry approved cameras that includes an ultra-responsive hydrophone for leak detection along with a cable trace feature.
The PIPA system includes a chlorination housing and is approved for safe use in potable water networks. The camera sensors include ultra-bright COB lights, HD camera sensor with an ultra-responsive hydrophone.
All locations inspected have recorded invaluable pipe condition data which will be analysed by API and reports provided back to the client, all part of every under pressure pipe inspection survey.
Applications to the potable water sector
• 105 metre hydrant entry pressurised water pipe condition assessment tool 
• No shutdowns required as system is pressurised & chlorinated during use
• Enters via 1 inch and above tapping’s
• Systems can be pushed or floated down pipelines
• Pipe material and lining validations
• Confirm bury depths
• Measure pipe diameter
• Location of pipe defects, blockages and buried valves
• Investigate the source of dirty water prior to customer complaints (DWI)
• Asset management budget validation device
• Identify illegal connections (NRW)
• Accurate leak location in all pipe materials
• Mains tracing
• Detailed pipe assessments prior to clean, line or replacement schemes
• Systems available for sale with training or as a service
Camera entry points
The PIPA systems are designed for safe use on many style fire hydrants, many other valves and pressure fittings installed directly on top of a water mains. The pipe set up proved to be ideal without the need for modifications from standard PIPA UK specifications.
Camera inspection results
§ Standard fire hydrants were successfully used to survey pipelines both upstream & downstream
§ Pipe condition & configuration assessments were successfully completed by API
§ A detailed data report was submitted to the client
§ No expensive trial holes required
PIPA Representative Fabio Orlandi: We are getting lots of interest from many UK water companies & International clients on the Hydrocam™ systems, and are very pleased to see API successfully operating and delivering amazing results using the Hydrocam™ with a new lining client last week! The full project was completed with a single camera system.
More projects are now being planned with PIPA Technology including the longer range 1km Flowrider™ system for Trunk mains for pre lining inspections.
Well done API team…
We now have many other projects to complete in 2026 not only in the UK but Overseas, with new projects arriving weekly!
The Hydrocam™ & Flowrider™ systems are what the water industry has been waiting for, a complete universal water main inspection system package that is simple to use and covers a wide range of pipe sizes and can also navigate through standard buried fire hydrants, pillar style hydrants & butterfly valves. Both systems are van based or portable when using the Hydrocam™ & Flowrider Lite™, quick to set up and are great systems for all water company leakage teams and contractors to add to their tool box!
PIPA has developed the widest range of pressurised pipe inspection products commercially available in the world, and has worked with the majority of the UK water utility companies and a wide range of clients overseas.
For more information on the Hydrocam™, Flowrider™ or any PIPA system please contact: sa***@*****uk.com
