Optimum design and operation of pumped water distribution systems

Abstract

All communities need an adequate water supply. A water distribution pipe network, water storage tanks and pumping station facilities are the usual features of a water supply system. The selection of the layout, capacity and operation of these components of the distribution system significantly affects the hydraulic and economic efficiency of the design. The genetic algorithm (GA) technique is applied to the search for the optimal water distribution system design. The GA technique simulates mechanisms of natural population genetics in artificial evolutionary strategy. The genetic algorithm optimisation model coupled with a steady state hydraulic simulation model generates and evaluates trial pipe network designs in search of optimal designs just as nature may save, combine and manipulate genetic information in the process of evolution. The genetic algorithm search is applied to a case study which demonstrates its flexibility and the opportunity for significant cost savings offered by this method.