Design of multiquality irrigation water supply systems using the Q–C feasibility domain concept: II. QCFD model and applications

Abstract

AbstractThe world shortage in water sources for irrigation indicates a need to exploit poor water quality sources. Traditional design methods of irrigation systems consider primarily the hydraulic aspects. Inclusion of water quality aspects requires new tailored design methods. The method suggested herein is part of a continuous effort taken in that direction. Earlier works paved the way for the presently suggested design model which computes the feasibility domain of water discharge and quality of supply networks. Steady‐state conditions, conservative water quality parameters, instantaneous and complete mixing of water from diverse water quality sources were assumed. The Q–C (chemical transport sub‐problem) was dealt with and the QC feasibility domains of sources for the inner nodes and outlets were computed for every feasible flow pattern in a given network. Feasibility of supply was evaluated by comparing demand (water discharge and quality) values with the supply values computed by the QCFD. Real water supply in a rural community in the Arava desert, Israel, was designed using the QCFD model. Feasibility of various irrigation schedules was tested and a guideline for operation derived. The method, however, needs further improvement. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.