Optimizing Water Age and Pressure in Drinking Water Distribution Networks

Abstract

Water distribution networks suffer from high levels of water losses due to leaks and breaks, mainly due to high operating pressure. One of the most well-known methods to reduce water losses is pressure management. However, when the operating pressure in a water distribution network reduces, the time the water stays within the network (called water age) increases. Increased water age means deteriorated water quality. In this paper, water pressure in relation to water age is addressed in a water distribution network in Greece. Using simulation and optimization tools, the optimum solution is found to reduce water age and operating pressure at the same time. In addition, District Metered Areas are formed and water age is optimized.