Application of Imperialist Competitive Algorithm in Optimizations of Pipe Diameters for Urban Water Network (Case study: Shahrdari town, Kerman)

Numerous studies in optimization of water supply networks have been allocated to cost reduction of these infrastructures. In general optimization methods, minimizing the costs is the unique purpose, but applying this view point for the case of water supply systems may lead to reduction of the utility and efficiency of the system. Therefore, some multi-objective optimization models have been used to decrease the large amount of costs in these systems and to increase their operation efficiency. The present study has attempted to illustrate a case study for a town of Kerman in order to decrease the costs of rebuilding pipe network using the Imperialistic Competition Optimization Algorithm. So, the network simulation was performed with Water GEMS software. Firstly, the water supply network of the study area was simulated in the Water GEMS model. Next, the properties of water supply network were inserted. Then, using the standard pressure and speed constraints, the optimal options of the algorithm were obtained. By re-running the results of this optimized model in the Water GEMS model and the limits’ checkup, the total costs were estimated and compared. Analysis of the optimal model results showed that in comparison with the state prior to the network optimization, the Imperialistic Competition Algorithm has significantly reduced the cost function of the network.