Ensuring the proper operation of wastewater networks is a priority for local authorities and water operators. These infrastructures, often invisible because they are buried underground, play a fundamental role in public health and environmental protection. To maintain these networks in good condition, television inspection has become an essential technology. It enables anomalies to be identified quickly, repairs to be planned and costly damage to be avoided. Multinnova French specialist in inspection technologies, offers innovative solutions such as Roview2a wireless inspection robot designed to move through pipes without interrupting service.
What is televisual inspection?
Televisual inspection (or TVI) is a non-intrusive visual inspection method for pipes. It is based on the introduction of a camera-equipped robot into wastewater or stormwater networks, to view the inside of pipes in real time. This technology is used to inspect existing pipes, whether for preventive diagnostics, post-incident intervention, or verification after installation or rehabilitation work.
The cameras used for ITVs can film in high definition, often with a panoramic angle of vision (up to 360°). They are generally mounted on wheeled robots or, as in the case of the Roview2floats on the surface of the water. Images are transmitted to the technician on the surface, who can analyze them live and record the sequence for a report complying with standard NF EN 13508-2.
What can a TV inspection detect?
Thanks to the precision of the image and the maneuverability of the robots, TV inspection can detect a wide range of pipe malfunctions:
Obstructions and blockages
Solid deposits (grease, sand, objects, roots) can partially or totally block a pipe. The ITV enables us to identify the nature of the blockage, its precise location, and to choose the most appropriate intervention method (cleaning, hydrocleaning, mechanical cutting, etc.).
Cracks, deformations and fractures
Over time, pipelines can crack or deform under the effect of ground movements or excessive loads. These defects weaken the structure and increase the risk of rupture. An ITV can even detect microcracks before they become serious.
Leaks and infiltrations
Faulty joints or perforations in the pipe can cause wastewater to leak into the ground, or groundwater to infiltrate the system. These anomalies increase flow unnecessarily, and can lead to overflows and pollution.
Wrong connections
Some inspections reveal non-compliant connections, such as unauthorized connections or inadequate slopes. These errors in design or execution are detrimental to the flow of effluent.
The benefits of TV inspection for sewer systems
ITV offers numerous benefits in network management, both in terms of curative and preventive measures:
A precise, documented diagnosis
The high-definition images provided by the cameras enable a detailed analysis of the pipe's condition. The diagnosis can be shared with decision-makers, service providers or insurers, facilitating decision-making and work planning.
A fast, non-destructive method
Unlike an excavation, ITV requires no earthworks. It can be installed rapidly, without disrupting the urban environment or interrupting network operations. Inspections are often completed in a matter of hours.
Reduced maintenance costs
By precisely identifying the areas in need of repair, ITV avoids unnecessary work on the entire network. It enables work to be targeted where necessary, optimizing maintenance and rehabilitation budgets.
Better risk anticipation
By planning regular inspection campaigns, operators can prevent incidents before they become critical (road collapse, pollution, sewer backup, etc.). It's a key tool for rational network asset management.
Roview2: the ideal ally for under-load inspection
Inspections become even more complex when pipes are partially or completely filled with water. In these conditions, conventional wheeled robots can no longer move forward, and the network often has to be drained, which is time-consuming, costly and polluting. In response to this challenge Multinnov has designed Roview2.
A wireless inspection robot
Unlike conventional cable-powered systems, Roview2 operates entirely wirelessly. This autonomy enables it to travel up to 500 meters in a pipe, avoiding blockages due to cable winding or tension. The technician maintains control from the surface, thanks to a high-performance radio link.
A floating robot for water inspections
Roview2 is able to float and navigate on the surface of the water present in sewer pipes. This makes it possible to carry out inspections under load, without having to evacuate the wastewater first. This is a decisive advantage in urban areas where dry interventions are difficult or impossible.
High-definition panoramic vision
Equipped with a 4K steerable camera (360° horizontal and 180° vertical), Roview2 provides a complete visualization of the pipe, whatever its condition. The image is transmitted in real time, with sufficient quality to detect even the smallest defects.
A tool that complies with standards
Roview2 has been designed to generate inspection reports that can be used directly in accordance with the NF EN 13508-2 standard. This enables local authorities and operators to easily integrate the results into their GIS or asset management software.
Television inspection has become an indispensable tool for monitoring, maintaining and repairing sewer systems. It enables the precise detection of anomalies in pipes, while limiting the need for costly and time-consuming interventions. By making inspections more accessible, faster and more reliable, the Roview2 technology developed by Multinnov is an innovative response to the needs of local authorities and operators. Its wireless operation, buoyancy and image quality make this inspection robot perfectly suited to complex operations, including in water. Made in France, robust and intuitive, it symbolizes a new generation of intelligent solutions for sustainable, high-performance underground infrastructures.
See a video of the Roview2 in action in a sewer system: Click here
