Innovation

The NPRF not only encourages innovation in regulation, training, plumbing products and design, but is actively involved in ensuring that solutions for water and energy issues are effective, safe and do not cause adverse impact to infrastructure and the environment.

A major project for the NPRF is the coordination of the Australasian scientific review of reduction of flows on plumbing and drainage systems (ASFlow).

Currently, water restrictions are in force in most capital cities across Australia.  Because of water scarcity and the need to supplement water supply, regulators and industry are committed to improving the water efficiency of plumbing fixtures and appliances.

Sanitary plumbing and drainage systems have traditionally been designed on greater water volumes than are used today. Traditional sewerage systems were designed for 12 litre single flush WCs based on the fixture unit rating, which was introduced in the early 1900s.

Due to the urgent need to conserve water, reductions in water use have occurred by:

• decreasing toilet flushing volumes;
• growing awareness of water usage issues; and
• increasing installation of water efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances with the promotion of programs such as WELS.

While drainline flows have been reduced due to the introduction of new water efficient technologies, no research work has been conducted to identify the implications on plumbing and drainage systems. In the interests of addressing the consequences of reduced water usage in Australia and New Zealand, the NPRF formed a committee so that plumbing regulators and industry bodies could work together to investigate and report on:

1. Implications of flow reductions in sanitary plumbing and drainage systems
2. Reduction in flows from sanitary fixtures installed to AS/NZS 3500.2 Sanitary plumbing and drainage  
3. Reduction in flows impact on black water transportation
4. Feasibility of ultra low discharge volumes

The key research objectives have significant health, environmental and infrastructure outcomes for Australian and New Zealand communities, the plumbing industry, network utility operators and governments. The findings of this research will provide the future performance criteria for design standards for sustainable sanitary plumbing and drainage systems in Australia and New Zealand, and potentially internationally. Importantly, the criteria will replace drainline criteria determined in the past 100 years.  All testing during the project will be validated by National Association of Testing Authorities accredited testing officers.

ASFlow Committee: