Optimization of Water Quality in Distribution Networks Based on Variable Chlorine Injection Regime, Pump Speed, and Analytical Methods Used

Recent years have witnessed a growing interest in the optimal operation of water distribution networks (WDNs) as a result of their enhanced quality and reliability with due regard for the economic limitations faced. For this purpose, the present study was designed and implemeted to realize the two objectives of minimizing disinfection costs and maximizing reliability of water quality in water distribution networks using the multi-objective form of ACO algorithm as the optimization method. Different system analysis methods based on DDSM (demand driven simulation method) and HDSM (head driven simulation method) were also employed to investigate and compare the effects of constant versus time-dependent chlorine injection and pump speed. Results indicated that, compared to the condition with constant parameters of chlorine injectuion and pump speed, great improvements could be achieved in enhancing the reliability of water quality and reducing disinfection costs by using variable speed pumps (vsp) and time-dependent chlorine injection regimes without the need for buster pumps. Comparison of the analytical methods employed also indicated that application of HDSM led to reduced chlorine injection costs and improved reliability of water quality.