Emission predictions with a multi-linear reservoir model

For the assessment of combined sewer overflows detailed models are not necessary. Physically based conceptual models give an optimal balance between model uncertainty and uncertainty in the input data. Besides, it is important that continuous long term simulations are performed. To prove this, in this paper the calibration of a reservoir model is discussed. The emission results of the reservoir model are compared with those of a hydrodynamic model. This research shows that a well-calibrated reservoir model can predict overflow emissions as well as a detailed model, taking into account the uncertainties in the input data. Moreover, when a reservoir model is used the calculation times are 104 to 106 times smaller. Such simplified models are an ideal tool to perform quickly various scenario analyses. © 1999 IAWQ Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.