Springwell Reservoir: Ensuring Leak-Free Pipelines with Expert Pressure Testing

AHS Pipeline Innovation has played a key role in the construction of the Springwell Service Reservoir in Tyne and Wear, where Northumbrian Water is investing £26 million to enhance water storage and supply resilience.

The new 43 million-litre reservoir will support around 50,000 properties in South Tyneside and help strengthen water security for a further 200,000 properties across the region. The reservoir is part of a broader package of works to improve the resilience of Northumbrian Water’s clean water network. Construction began in June 2023 and is expected to be completed by March 2025.

Project Overview & Design Strategy

The reservoir, built using a twin-cell structure, measures 100m by 75m and features a mix of precast and in situ concrete elements for efficiency and durability. The site’s sloped terrain and environmental considerations required careful planning, including biodiversity enhancements and protections for local wildlife.

Through the team’s collective experiences of building modern service reservoirs, MMB has endeavoured to create a structure that is less prone to leakage. To optimize efficiency and reduce carbon impact, MMB worked closely with WSP and FLI Precast to develop a semi-precast design. 

Ensuring Pipeline Integrity with Type I and Type II Pressure Testing

Pressure testing is a critical step in major infrastructure projects, ensuring that newly installed pipelines are safe, durable, and fit for service before being brought into operation. It verifies that pipework can withstand operational pressures and remain leak-free, preventing failures that could lead to costly repairs, environmental risks, or service disruptions.

Throughout the project, AHS’s specialist pressure testing equipment was used to verify the integrity of pipelines made from both steel and polyethylene (PE). Given the varied materials, both Type I and Type II tests were carried out:

• Type I Tests – Used for rigid materials like steel, these tests involve filling the pipeline with water, pressurizing it, and monitoring for pressure loss
• Type II Tests – Designed for visco-elastic materials like PE, these tests account for the effect of creep, assessing how the pipe expands and stabilizes under pressure

AHS helped to ensure that all the pipeline sections met the required industry standards and were proven to be leak-free before integration into the new reservoir system. 

Delivering Specialist Pressure Testing Solutions

As infrastructure projects become more complex and regulatory standards continue to evolve, pressure testing remains a critical component in ensuring the safety, durability, and efficiency of pipeline networks. The demand for thorough and precise testing is increasing as the industry moves towards more sustainable and resilient water systems. AHS is committed to staying at the forefront of these advancements, providing the expertise and innovative solutions needed to meet the challenges of modern infrastructure development.

Discover more about our pressure testing solutions or contact us to find out how we can support your latest infrastructure project.