Water transport and distribution systems

Water transport systems comprise main transmission lines with high and fairly constant capacities. Branched water transport systems provide water for more than one distribution area forming a regional water supply system. Water distribution systems consist of a network of smaller pipes with numerous connections that supply water directly to the users. The system components used for water transport and distribution should be constructed i.e. manufactured from durable materials that are resistant to mechanical and chemical attacks, and at the same time not harmful for human health. The trunk main is the pipe used for the transport of potable water from the treatment plant to the distribution area. Except for very small systems, the costs of constructing and operating water storage facilities are comparable to the savings achieved in building and operating other parts of the distribution system. Centrifugal flow pumps are mostly used in water distribution.