Network Subsegmentation Method On The Example Of Water Distribution Systems

The article concerns the use of modern technologies related to information processing and retrieval, as well as modeling and simulation of the operation of water distribution system (WDS). The analyzed problem involves counteracting situations (or minimizing their duration) in which WDS are exposed to loss of quality parameters of distributed water (i.e., failure of water pipes) as defined by relevant laws and regulations issued by state authorities. In the event of a pipe failure, segment the network based on the location of the valves. Based on it, it is possible to determine the valve IDs necessary to isolate the damaged component. However, current methods of segmentation and determining the valves to close a specific segment do not fully utilize all available information. Based on the hydraulic simulation (flow analysis) and topographical knowledge of the analyzed WDS, the proposed method allows dividing a segment (defined by the location of the valves) into smaller fragments (subsegments) thus enabling the isolation of the damaged water supply pipe for repair operations, as well as reducing the total repair time by reducing the number of valves that need to be opened and closed. The method was tested on a model of a real distribution system from the Miejskie Przedsiebiorstwo Energetyki Cieplnej, Wodociagow i Kanalizacji. Sp. z o.o. in Sroda Wielkopolska in Poland.