Smart Pressure Management to Reduce the Spatial and Temporal Pressure Variations in Water Distribution Networks

Water supply networks are considered as critical infrastructures in urban systems, the use of which has always been associated with many challenges. In these networks, the problems such as pipe breaks, water leakages and, non-uniform distribution of nodal pressures are considered as frequent challenges. In this study, a time-based scheduling approach for the use of pressure control equipment in the water network has been presented. In this regard, two operational scenarios consisting of simultaneous use of individual pressure reducing valves in the first scenario (individual scenario) and the hybrid use of pressure reducing valves with a variable speed pump in the second scenario (hybrid scenario) have been investigated. In this case, Operational programs have been developed with the aim of achieving the benefits of pressure management based on providing minimum temporal and spatial pressure variations, using a genetic algorithm as an optimization tool. Finally, the proposed strategies based on dual scenarios were validated in the context of a theoretical network as well as a real network. The optimal scenario was determined by calculating the hydraulic evaluation indicators of the network. The results show that the simultaneous use of pressure reducing valves with a variable speed pump (hybrid scenario), has been more effective in reducing pressure variations and increasing desired pressure coverage, in comparison with the individual scenario.