Potable water distribution management

Objective

The aim is to establish the feasibility and efficacy of introducing real-time, optimal-control for water-distribution networks with a view to reducing operating costs and leakage. To that end, a generic methodology will be developed based on the use of a trained artificial neural network for predicting the consequences of control settings and a genetic algorithm to determine the optimal combination. Demand fluctuations, operating constraints and tariff structure will be taken into account. The prototype system will be applied to two networks of different complexities and the results compared with manual control. As a consequence of improved pressure management, it is confidently expected that optimal control will save some 20 percent of operating costs, particularly if leakage reduction is taken into account. Additionally, there will be improvements to system performance by ensuring that operational requirements are consistently met.

Programme(s)

• FP5-EESD - Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Energy, environment and sustainable development, 1998-2002"

Topic(s)

• 1.1.4.-1. - Key action Sustainable Management and Quality of Water

Funding Scheme

CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

Address

Cassie Building, Claremont Road
NE1 7RU Newcastle Upon Tyne
United Kingdom

Participants (3)

TECHNION - ISRAEL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Israel

Address

Technion City
32000 Haifa

UNIVERSIDAD POLITECNICA DE VALENCIA

Spain

Address

S/n,camino De Vera S/n
46022 Valencia

UNIVERSITÀ DEGLI STUDI DI FERRARA

Italy

Address

Via Saragat 1
44100 Ferrara