Calibrating water distribution network models and identifying interference areas between water sources on the network in the North of Ho Chi Minh City

Abstract

The realistic simulation model of a water distribution network has been widely applied in water resource management, from optimization design to operation management. However, the calibration of the model simulation to adapt with reality is still a challenging task, because within the water distribution network, there are numerous unknown variables, such as: variant consumptions, pipeline characteristics, losses and uncontrollable or non-revenue water, especially flows at potential leak points. This study presents the simulation and calibration of the hydraulic model of the water distribution network in the Northern area of Ho Chi Minh City, including Go Vap District and a part of District 12. The network currently supplies water for more than 140.000 water meters and the water flow into and out of the network in real time is controlled in the study area. The results of the calibration of the water distribution network model are assessed to be consistent with the actual operation in terms of flow and water pressure changes during the day at the observation points by performance metrics. On that basis, the study continues to apply the calibrated model to analyze the water source tracing to determine the interference areas between two water sources in the study area from two water treatment plants.