Method for water distribution systems reliability evaluation

Abstract

A new methodology for water resources systems reliability evaluation is presented. The proposed methodology considers both: mechanical reliability (probability of pipe failure) and reliability of hydraulic parameters in the nodes and links (pressure, velocity). On the basis of this methodology the model NetRel was developed. This model is useful for determining reliability of systems with different configurations and complexity. Also, methodology for optimal reliability allocation, based on genetic algorithms, is proposed. That methodology, coupled with the reliability evaluation method, is an efficient tool for solving problems of optimal allocation of water distribution network reliability.