AI-driven in-line inspection improves leak and air pocket detection in water networks

Amazon and Aganova have announced a new collaboration to help reduce water loss across Recife's water distribution network using AI-powered acoustic leak detection technology. The initiative leverages Amazon Web Services (AWS) to host and analyse data collected from water pipelines managed by the local utility, Compesa, enabling the identification of hidden leaks with greater accuracy. Once completed, the project is expected to save approximately 165 million litres of water annually - the equivalent of 66 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

At the core of the initiative is Aganova's Nautilus system, an advanced in-line inspection technology that operates within pipelines while they remain in service. Combining high-resolution data collection with AI-driven analytics, Nautilus can accurately detect and locate hidden leaks and trapped air pockets - issues that conventional inspection methods often fail to identify.

Marcos Barrera, CEO of Aganova, said: "Water loss is one of the most urgent and solvable challenges in global water management. At Aganova, we combine advanced sensing technology with data intelligence to detect what others cannot see. This project in Recife demonstrates how our Nautilus system can generate measurable water savings, protect critical resources, and help utilities transition to smarter, more sustainable operations."

Improving water efficiency is a key part of Amazon's commitment to responsible water stewardship across its operations. Juliana Sztrajtman, President of Amazon Brazil, commented: "The collaboration between local utilities and companies applying cutting-edge technology is a smart path to solving critical city problems, such as water waste. This initiative increases water efficiency, strengthens infrastructure, helps preserve natural resources, and provides lasting benefits for the communities of Recife and surrounding areas."

As one of Brazil's fastest-growing coastal cities, Recife is facing increasing pressure on its water resources. Reducing physical water losses is therefore not only an operational priority but a strategic necessity, helping to reduce pressure on vulnerable water sources while improving the efficiency and resilience of the city's water distribution network.

Compesa added: “This collaboration represents a significant step forward in modernising water management in Recife State of Pernambuco. By leveraging advanced technologies, we can better understand our network, reduce losses, and ensure a more reliable and sustainable water supply for the population we serve.”

The initiative will focus on a basin in southern Recife, where targeted intervention will deliver measurable results. The project aims to recover 165 million litres of water annually once completed through advanced leak detection and repair strategies. To achieve this, approximately 69 kilometres of large-diameter pipelines will be inspected using Aganova's Nautilus technology. These water savings through this project are expected to directly contribute to reducing pressure on the Boa Viagem aquifer and improving system performance. While these figures are based on current network data and operational experience, results may be enhanced as the project progresses.

The initiative is also supported by Effico Saneamento, Aganova's Brazilian partner, which is providing specialist local engineering expertise and technical support.

This marks the second collaboration between Amazon and Aganova in Brazil. In 2025, the two organisations launched a similar project in São Paulo with Sabesp, aimed at preventing the loss of approximately 210 million litres of water annually.