Determination of the most economical leakage level in the district-metered area with the optimization algorithm

Abstract

Failures and breaks occurring in water distribution networks (WDSs) create significant leakage volumes annually. System operating conditions deteriorate due to the increase in the rate of failure and leakage. Therefore, the failure rate and leakage volume should be reduced by applying the most appropriate methods. For this, the most economically suitable level must first be defined in each system or districtmetered area. This study aims to define the most economical leakage level with the optimization algorithm in the district-metered area in water distribution systems. For this, network characteristics, subscriber information and water consumption, water production cost, failure rates, and other data in the isolated measurement area are considered. Ant lion optimization algorithm was used as the optimization algorithm in the study. The definition of the methods to be applied to reach the defined ELL level constitutes a reference for the implementers. Water utilities can continue their loss reduction strategies in the most economically efficient way with the help of this method. In the selected regions of the study area, pressure management application and active leakage method application were economical. Thus, it is possible to create a more effective and efficient leakage management plan in the isolated measurement area. It is thought that the results obtained from the study will serve as a reference for practitioners and technical personnel, especially in terms of determining the appropriate leakage target level for each isolated region.