Combining flow simulation and optimization for dynamic management of relief wells

Abstract

This study considers the development and testing of a management model for analysing pressure relief well systems near hydraulic structures. The management problem is formulated using the mixed integer programming optimization technique. Groundwater flow dynamics are incorporated into the optimization formulation using response functions generated with a flow simulation model. The stability of soils is considered by requiring acceptable head bounds at potential heaving locations. The management model selects well sites and determines optimal operation schedules for the relief wells. The model is demonstrated with two hypothetical examples to illustrate the tradeoffs between system parameters and the system performance. Sensitivity studies of system parameters are performed, respectively, on aquifer transmissivity, minimum drawdown, and well capacity.