Minimizing Leakage Rates in Water Distribution Networks through Optimal Valves Settings

In this study, a model has been developed to optimize the operation of flow control valves according to variable demands under a selected water leakage percentage. A non-linear optimization objective function is used to minimize the differences between the available nodal pressures and those required. This objective function is subject to constraints; represent assigned minimum and maximum limits for both valve settings and allowable head deviations, in addition to constraints represent the application of the continuity equation at each node and the application of energy conservation law at each loop of pipes. The objective function is further modified by adding penalty of the statistical coefficient of variation of nodal pressures. This model has been verified using a network example presented by previous researchers in the same field and then applied on a case study network in Iraq. The results of the case study indicate the capability of the system to obtain optimal valves settings for the selected input data.