Analysis of network useful life and cost-benefits for sustainable water management

Main lines and service connections in distribution systems are damaged due to various factors. The leakage volume, operating and repair costs increase depending on the density of damage. The cost-benefit and economic life analysis should be done for network renewal in distribution systems. In this study, a useful life analysis model was developed for pipes serving in distribution systems. The total number of failures in water distribution systems, failure repair costs, pipe diameter and material and leakage rates in the existing system and network characteristics are considered. The developed model was applied in 9 isolated regions with different properties in the application area. The useful lives have varied depending on the characteristics of the regions. The number of failures and the amount of water losses, as well as the length of the network and the type of new pipe play serious role in useful life analysis. Especially, it was observed that the type of pipe material to be used in network renewal has an effect on the useful life. It is thought that this study will constitute a reference for technical personnel, especially in deciding to renew the network.