MANAGING WATER-SUPPLY INFRASTRUCTURE

As it relates to the treatment and apply of drinking water, materials engineering is not limited to the investigation of failures and, routi ne testing of samples for compliance with purchase specifications. Mat erials engineering can be used to rewrite material specifications, coo rdinate vendor surveillance, provide predictive testing to prevent fai lures, and consult on new designs. If water suppliers are to continue to provide high-quality water with greater reliability in the quantity desired at an affordable cost, the US drinking water industry must ma ke greater use of materials engineering and become more involved in ma terials engineering discussions and research. By sharing the experienc es of the Philadelphia (Pa.) Water Department, the authors hope to enc ourage technology transfer in materials science and technology among w ater suppliers.