A Methodology for the Optimization of Flow Rate Injection to Looped Water Distribution Networks through Multiple Pumping Stations

Abstract

Abstract:The optimal function of a water distribution network is reached when the consumer demands are satisfied using the lowest quantity of energy, maintaining the minimal pressure required at the same time. One way to achieve this is through optimization of flow rate injection based on the use of the setpoint curve concept. In order to obtain that, a methodology is proposed. It allows for the assessment of the flow rate and pressure head that each pumping station has to provide for the proper functioning of the network while the minimum power consumption is kept. The methodology can be addressed in two ways: the discrete method and the continuous method. In the first method, a finite set of combinations is evaluated between pumping stations. In the continuous method, the search for the optimal solution is performed using optimization algorithms. In this paper, Hooke-Jeeves and Nelder-Mead algorithms are used. Both the hydraulics and the objective function used by the optimization are solved through EPANET and its Toolkit. Two case studies are evaluated, and the results of the application of the different methods are discussed.

Optimization of Pressurized Tree-Type Water Distribution Network Using the Improved Decomposition–Dynamic Programming Aggregation Algorithm

“…Additionally, when the water sources have a low elevation or the water supply pressure is insufficient, a pressurized pumping station near the water source is needed to meet the water demands and satisfy the pressure requirements of the tree-type WDN [21][22][23]. In this case, it is necessary to simultaneously optimize both the pump head and pipe design of the pressurized WDN [24].…”

PEPSO: Reducing Electricity Usage and Associated Pollution Emissions of Water Pumps

“…23 MWh/year energy-equivalent to 137.4 ton CO 2 /year-can be recovered from the Water 2017, 9, 640 2 of 18 system [6,7]. León-Celi, C et al also used EPANET toolkit and two optimization algorithms to find the optimum flowrate distribution in water systems with multiple pump stations and minimize energy usage and potential leakage [8].…”

Optimisation of both energy use and pumping costs in water distribution networks with several water sources using the setpoint curve.

“…Before going on with the formulation of the objective function (OF), it is essential to make a fast review of the problem features that will be addressed. The approach uses the concept of a SC, where the most critical node in the network is identified, and all of the pumping stations are represented as nodes [7]- [9]. The critical node is used as a reference point to optimise pressure heads at pumping stations and satisfy the pressure requirements in the network while keeping the energy consumption at the minimum.…”

“…Therefore, the research and study of analysis and optimisation tools to minimise the energy consumption and operating costs from pump systems are still being entirely necessary [5], [6]. This is the case of applying the called setpoint curve or minimum energy curve, [7]- [9]. Up to now the study of the setpoint curve and its implementation are still being somewhat insignificant.…”

“…These three methodologies have been tested using five different networks. The networks, which have been studied under different work conditions are TF [7], Catinen [7], COPLACA [13], Anytown [14] and Richmond [15]. Networks TF, Catinen and COPLACA have been used specifically to illustrate the sections about energy and cost optimisation in networks without storage capacity.…”