There are numerous issues to be considered by mid-sized utilities when evaluating the need for the benefit of hydraulic network modeling. This paper describes how several of these have been addressed by the Valparaiso (Indiana) Department of Water Works. When properly developed, calibrated and maintained, the hydraulic network model provides the mid-sized utility with a reliable and effective problem solving tool. In Valparaiso model simulations have been used to examine the potential impacts of zone boundary changes on service pressures. In areas where customer piping is old, sudden changes in pressure can lead to problems associated with increased leakage or main breaks. The Valparaiso model has been used to effectively identify customers that might be impacted by such conditions so that they can be notified before any actual changes in system operation are made. Also, the model now enables the Department's staff to quickly investigate reports of high or low pressures and experiment with possible options for corrective action before actually making changes in the distribution system.
Product Details
Published: 01/01/1995 ISBN(s): 0898677912 Number of Pages: 17File Size: 1 file , 560 KB