Optimization of Surge Protection Devices in Water Distribution Systems

Flow disturbances occur frequently in water distribution systems. Both planned (the automatic stopping of pumps, hydrant flushing) and accidental events (power outages, mechanical failures of pipes) generate transient conditions, which if maltreated can lead to serious consequences for water utilities and their consumers. Various devices need to be specified to ensure safe and efficient operation of the system. Each device should be properly selected, located, and sized to account for system specifications. This study considers optimizing pumped network performance under several transient conditions by selecting location of surge protecting devices and their optimal design parameters using genetic algorithm (GA). The study shows that GA can be integrated with transient simulation for pressurized flow system. The obtained solutions provide efficient protection against low (including cavitation) and high pressure events.