A new algorithm for the real time pressure control in water distribution networks

This paper presents a new logic algorithm for the real time control of regulation valves in water distribution networks. This method entails identifying in real time the appropriate closure setting of the valves in order to reach and keep the desired piezometric height at the control node(s), by making use of measurements concerning both the controlled piezometric height and the water discharge in the pipe(s) fitted with the regulation valve(s). In the numerical application herein described this control algorithm is implemented within a hydraulic simulation model and is tested in a case study concerning a real distribution network, in which there is one control valve installed in the pipe linking the serving tank to the network. Results pointed out excellent performance in terms of pressure regulation (with very small deviations from the desired set-point value) and leakage reduction under various operation conditions.