Classification of water distribution systems for research applications

Water distribution system models can aid utilities in achieving more reliable and optimal operations of their system. They are also useful in research efforts aimed at improving the planning, design, and operation of systems. This paper outlines the development, classification process, and analysis of 15 water distribution systems for the purpose of creating a database of system models which can be used among the research community to test newly developed algorithms. Differences in basic system characteristics based on configuration are also examined to determine if certain characteristics (e.g. number of tanks, average pipe diameter, etc.) vary systematically by configuration. The study aims to help quantify differences in the three main system configurations beyond the general layout differences. Such a classification may be useful in generalizing the economic performance, reliability, resiliency, or required characteristics (e.g. number of pumps, tanks, etc. per total system demand) of such systems. Such statistics may also be useful in helping to forecast system expansion needs (pipe, tanks, etc.), and security needs (i.e. number of water quality sensors, etc.) as the system continues to grow and expand.