Innovation Exchange challenge: Assuring the assembly of hidden domestic gas pipework

The challenge

Cadent Gas is looking for innovative solutions which enable efficient non-intrusive identification and assessment of hidden gas pipework in homes, commercial buildings and public buildings (supermarkets, hospitals, schools) within their gas network. They currently carry out a visual inspection of pipework where possible and conduct a 21mbar pressure test to check the pipes and joints are intact. They are interested in what could be done beyond these current measures, as part of an in-home hydrogen suitability assessment.

This IX challenge focusses on establishing whether the gas pipes and joints are assembled correctly. Novel techniques are sought to ensure that hidden pipes are free of major assembly issues (e.g. loose or weak joints, soldering not present).

Gas installation pipework can range from 8 mm to 35 mm for domestic use, however, to visually confirm the proper assembly of joints, inspection capability at the micron scale will be required.

The device must be suitable for use in a typical UK home (limited space) and is anticipated to be hand-held making it easy for a single trained operative to carry and use. The device should display the pipework and joints for the operative to inspect onsite.

The device will be gathering data from thousands of homes so the assessment process should be quick and efficient (approx. 30 minutes). A balance between accuracy and assessment duration is required. The device could be capable of transmitting the gathered data to the Cadent offices at regularly intervals (real time transmission is not required).

Under separate IX challenges Cadent is looking for devices which will identify the location of the pipework within the building and assess the pipe material and its condition – see our Opportunities page for details.

Who can apply?

Entrants to this competition must be:

• Established businesses, start-ups, SMEs, academics or individual entrepreneurs
• UK based or have the intention to set up a UK base

Partnerships and consortia of organisations are welcome to apply to this competition.

If you feel you can only address part of this challenge, please apply and clearly state which aspects of the challenge your solution can address.

For further technical requirements, operating conditions, and more details on IP and commercialisation, visit the Innovation Exchange site at the link below.