Reduction of Multi-Port Water Distribution Networks Using the Generalized Thevenin Theorem

Expansion and reorganization of water distribution networks by connecting sub-networks via single or multiple pipes are common practices in developing cities to serve newly developed areas. In that context, the existing large network is often replaced with its equivalent simplified network for the optimal design of the upcoming sub-networks to avoid the computational burden. The reservoir-pump model is frequently used by practicing hydraulic engineers to replace an existing one; however, such a model should be applied only when the networks are connected through a single pipe. In this study, a new network reduction methodology is developed for multi-port connections utilizing the analogy between electrical circuits and hydraulic networks. The equivalent simple network is obtained by suitably applying the generalized Thevenin theorem for electrical circuits. The number of network elements in the equivalent network is significantly reduced compared to the ones obtained by the existing water distribution network (WDN) reduction methods. Therefore, it is possible to reorganize and expand a large existing network system from a prior knowledge of its most sensitive parts. The accuracy and robustness of the proposed methodology are investigated on realistic WDNs by comparing the results with EPANET, for both Demand Driven Analysis and Pressure Driven Analysis. However, as of now, an electrical simulator is required to implement the proposed methodology due to the absence of current dependent voltage source model in hydraulic simulators. The proposed network reduction method can be of enormous utility for hydraulic engineers and opens up an opportunity to implement new elements in hydraulic simulators.

Automated summary

Expansion and reorganization of water distribution networks by connecting sub-networks via single or multiple pipes are common practices in developing cities. A new network reduction methodology is developed for multi-port connections using the analogy between electrical circuits and hydraulic networks. The proposed methodology reduces the number of network elements significantly compared to existing water distribution network reduction methods. It has the potential to reorganize and expand large existing network systems and can be of great utility for hydraulic engineers.