ACCIONA is incorporating the latest technologies to increase efficiency and reduce the level of unforeseen events in its contracts for the publicly owned company Sanepar, in the State of Paraná (Brazil). The project, which covers 48 municipalities, has a budget of R$ 2 billion over eight years. It will benefit around 252,000 people up to 2033, in accordance with the guidelines of the new Legal Framework for Sanitation.

Among the technologies implemented by ACCIONA, the use of Leica Stream DP stands out, an underground radar system that can detect the location and depth of water and sewer networks as well as gas, energy and telecoms piping without the need for drilling. 3D maps are generated in real time with the help of AI, and remote assistance is also possible. This allows for better planning of works, reduces the risk of pipe breaks, avoids rework and minimises disruption to public roads.

ACCIONA has also incorporated technology into surveying and field control activities. In addition to land surveying —critical for accuracy, control, and on-site verification— the company has introduced VANT Trinity Pro drones to map large areas with flexibility and high precision. 

SAFETY AND OPERATION

The company has opted for the use of video-inspection robots in sewer networks during the diagnostic and maintenance phase. This allows an evaluation of the internal conditions of the piping more precisely, with less need for invasive interventions. This reduces cases where it would be necessary to dig up road surfaces or paving just for checking purposes, in addition to improving the prevention of failures.

Another key element is the introduction of telemetry and video telemetry in the company’s vehicle fleet, supported by AI to identify risk behaviours and generate automatic alerts. Video recordings will be made to check prohibited behaviours, for example, not wearing a seat belt, using a mobile phone while driving, sudden braking or acceleration, speeding, and driver identification/validation. The vehicles also transmit their location every three seconds, with the system emitting an alarm when no positioning is recorded for more than 15 seconds, the aim being to improve the protection of assets and the continuity of operations.

These solutions are part of the technological strategy applied by ACCIONA to make the building and maintenance of sanitation systems safer and more predictable and efficient, contributing to the progress of the project in Paraná and implementing improvements that have a positive and lasting impact on the municipalities benefiting from the projects.