McWane launches iHydrantPlus water system intelligence platform

McWane introduced iHydrantPlus, a hydrant-based monitoring platform that uses acoustic leak detection, pressure data, temperature readings and machine learning to give water utilities real-time system alerts. The launch is aimed at helping operators spot leaks and pressure problems faster while reducing non-revenue water loss.

Why it matters: - Water utilities are under pressure to protect treatment investments, improve efficiency and maintain public trust. - iHydrantPlus is designed to help operators find leaks, pressure anomalies and other system issues faster. - The platform aims to reduce non-revenue water loss, a costly problem for public and private systems.

What happened: - McWane launched iHydrantPlus, an expanded hydrant-based system monitoring and analytics platform. - The product builds on the original iHydrant technology. - McWane said the launch extends its hydrant-based monitoring and analytics work with a system that combines data and machine learning. - The company said iHydrantPlus is built for private and public water system operators.

The details: - iHydrantPlus combines acoustic leak detection, pressure monitoring and temperature data. - The platform uses machine learning tools to provide real-time system analytics and alerts. - The system layers multiple data sources instead of relying on single-source readings. - McWane said the platform can identify leaks and other system challenges in real time. - The system can flag changes in performance and direct teams to areas that need attention. - iHydrantPlus is designed to do this without taking hydrants out of service. - The platform keeps the same ease of installation as the original iHydrant. - The hydrant-focused design is intended to preserve reliability and avoid disruption to routine operations or maintenance. - McWane said the technology is the result of years of research, collaboration and real-world testing. - The company has more than 6,000 team members. - McWane says its businesses produce ductile iron products, fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems and steel pressure vessels. - More information is available here.

Between the lines: - The launch fits a broader push by utilities to modernize infrastructure as aging systems, water scarcity and climate conditions create more operational strain. - McWane is positioning iHydrantPlus as a decision-support tool, not just a monitoring device. - The emphasis on hydrant-based installation suggests the company wants easier deployment without interrupting day-to-day water service.

What's next: - McWane is pitching iHydrantPlus to utility providers and municipal leaders looking to modernize water infrastructure. - The company appears to be betting that real-time analytics and machine learning will become more important in system planning and maintenance. - Utility adoption will show whether the platform can deliver on its promise of earlier detection and better system visibility.

The bottom line: - McWane is trying to turn hydrants into a real-time intelligence network for water utilities.