Advances in Leakage Control and Energy Consumption Optimization in Drinking Water Distribution Networks

The proper management of these leaks is important because: (a) it avoids treating and pumping additional volumes of water, (b) leaks introduce air into the system, increasing energy consumption, making flow meters unreliable and increasing oxidation in the system due to the presence of air, (c) it causes damage to the foundations of buildings, (d) it overloads the sewerage networks, (e) it reduces the service pressure and (f) it increases the probability of the contamination of the transported water [9,10]. [...]pressure management in drinking water distribution systems is internationally recognized as one of the key activities in the reduction in water losses. Pressure Management Methods in Water Distribution Networks to Reduce Leakage According to the International Water Association (IWA), pressure management consists of managing the pressure of a system at an optimum level and ensuring sufficient and efficient service to legitimate uses and consumers, while, at the same time, it facilitates the reduction in unnecessary or excessive pressures and the elimination of transient phenomena that are affecting assets lifespan, as both have direct negative impacts on physical efficiency [7]. [20] employ a genetic algorithm considering, as decision variables, the position and configuration of gear pumps and the working state of variable speed gear pumps to reduce losses and energy consumption. [23] conducted a study on the current status of water demand and associated energy demand for water supply in sub-Saharan Africa.