Computer-Aided Reliability Analysis of Water Distribution Networks

Abstract

Frequently, not much attention is paid to the cost optimization and reliability analysis of water distribution systems while designing. Reliability analysis and cost optimization are, however, inter-related. For example, in a branch type network, only one path of supply reaching a demand node may cost less, but at the same time, will have low reliability. In such a case, if any of the pipelines fail, the subsequent demand nodes will not receive any water. However, in a loop-type water distribution network, as the number of paths increases, the cost as well as reliability increase. Although loop-type water distribution networks are provided in urban areas, reliability analysis is generally not resorted to as its computation is uncommon to civil engineers. Reliability engineering concepts are substantially developed and have been used in the field of electrical and communication engineering. The purpose of this paper is to present a simple pathset technique for reliability analysis of demand nodes in water distribution networks. An efficient computer algorithm has been evolved which evaluates the minimal paths in the network and then computes the reliability using the concepts of Boolean algebra and set theory. The sensitivity of reliability with the additional pipeline(s) and demand node(s) for directed and undirected hydraulic networks has also been studied and the suggested methodology is illustrated with the help of examples.