Control of biofouling in water pipes using guided waves

Lead Research Organisation: University of Southampton
Department Name: Sch of Engineering

Abstract

A major issue for the water industry in a number of countries, including the UK, is the attachment of large populations of mussels to the inside of pipe walls causing significant flow resistance. A novel and chemical-free solution to this problem might be to vibrate the pipe wall, either to overcome their adhesion to the surface or to discourage their attachment in the first place.
The aim of this project is to explore the feasibility of disturbing mussels in an environmentally friendly manner by injecting 'guided waves' into the pipe wall. In particular, the wave energy will be focused at movable target positions to compensate for attenuation along the pipe due to energy losses which would otherwise limit an actuator's range. The project will involve modelling of wave propagation in fluid-filled pipes using semi-analytical and numerical techniques, and both laboratory and field measurements.

Publications

10 25 50

Studentship Projects

Project Reference Relationship Related To Start End Student Name
EP/R513325/1 30/09/2018 29/09/2023
2457087 Studentship EP/R513325/1 30/09/2020 31/03/2024 Austen Stone
EP/T517859/1 30/09/2020 29/09/2025
2457087 Studentship EP/T517859/1 30/09/2020 31/03/2024 Austen Stone