Optimization of Pressure Management in Water Distribution Systems Based on Pressure-Reducing Valve Control: Evaluation and Case Study

Abstract

Leakage in water distribution systems (WDS) is a major problem that results in substantial resource wastage. Pressure management, which is based on optimized control strategies using pressure-reducing valve installation, is considered one of the most effective methods for controlling network leakage and can be broadly classified into varied types, depending on the different control strategies. When facing diverse operational conditions in actual engineering, selecting the most suitable optimization strategy for the specific water supply network can greatly control leakage and efficiently utilize water resources. This article employs a greedy algorithm to iteratively determine the control sequence for pressure-reducing valves (PRVs), with the objective of minimizing surplus pressure. Subsequently, it proposed five evaluation indicators, namely, daily flow, daily leakage, pressure imbalance indicator, median daily pressure at nodes, and water age, which are used to evaluate and compare pressure management strategies in two sample networks. Finally, a suitable control strategy was successfully developed and implemented for an actual WDS of Y city in southern China, resulting in significant achievements. In conclusion, this paper embodies our attempt and contemplation in formulating pressure management strategies under diverse operating conditions in WDS, with the objective of providing guidance for practical engineering applications.

Issues in Implementation of EU Regulations in Terms of Evaluation of Water Losses: Towards Energy Efficiency Optimization in Water Supply Systems

“…Pressure management (PM) is the practice of managing pressures in a WDS to the optimum (minimum) levels of service and, at the same time, ensuring efficient and sufficient supply of water to consumers [48,49]. Generally, the minimum pressure in the water supply network is maintained during peak hours of consumption, but, on the other hand, it rises significantly during the off-peak hours (especially at night) and increases the frequency and volume of leaks [50]. PM is the most beneficial, energy efficient, and cost-effective leakage management method [51,52].…”