More realistic water distribution network design using pressure-driven demand and leakage

The traditional optimization paradigm used in system design focuses on network cost minimization and the maintenance of nodal pressures by relying on a demand-driven simulation of the network. This article describes a more realistic optimal design approach in which simulations are conducted with a pressure-driven model in order to assess unsupplied network demand and actual leakage flow rates. Reliability, within the context of unsatisfied demand and leakage, serves as an additional objective criterion in the optimization formulation. The assumption of a maximum network deterioration level is revisited and shown to be useful for improving reliability in the face of escalating leakage.