Water Network Sectorization Based on Graph Theory and Energy Performance Indices

This paper proposes a new methodology for the optimal design of water network sectorization, which is an essential technique for improving the management and security of multiple-source water supply systems. In particular, the network sectorization problem under consideration concerns the definition of isolated district meter areas, each of which is supplied by its own source (or sources) and is completely disconnected from the rest of the water system through boundary valves or permanent pipe sectioning. The proposed methodology uses graph theory principles and a heuristic procedure based on minimizing the amount of dissipated power in the water network. The procedure has been tested on two existing water distribution networks (WDNs) (in Parete, Italy and San Luis Rio Colorado, Mexico) using different performance indices. The simulation results, which confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed methodology, surpass empirical trial-and-error approaches and offer water utilities a tool for the design of multiple-source WDNs in isolated districts.