Analysis of Drinking Water Distribution Network Using EPANET Model (Case Study: Part of Shiraz Water Distribution Network)

The aim of this study is to prepare a calibrated and validated model based on flow and pressure measurements on different seasons for analyzing drinking water distribution network. The study area is a part of the drinking water distribution system in Shiraz city, Iran. The network water is supplied by three reservoirs after chlorination. According to the prepared maps of the region and the measured parameters, the hydraulic model of the study area including preparing the initial model, creating consumption patterns based on the results of measurements was obtained using the EPANET and WaterGEMS models. Calibration and validation were performed with 30 and 70% of the measured data, respectively. Based on the study area map and characteristics of pipes, 8 points of the network were selected for sampling and measuring flow rates and pressures. At these points, as well as at the inlet and outlet of the study area, electromagnetic flowmeter, pressure gauges and sampling valves were installed. In each measurement, the values of pressure and flow rate were measured simultaneously from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. in one-hour increments. In this study, 5 measurements were performed during the different seasons of 2020. The measurements of the flowmeters at the entrance of the study area were used to create a consumption pattern. Comparison of the results of the measured and simulated pressures and flow rates indicate good simulation accuracy. The results of these models were similar because the engine of these two models are the same. The statistical evaluation parameters including NRMSE and RMSE were between 0.2-0.83 and 0.03-1.02 in calibration and validation steps, respectively. Therefore, the models performance was excellent in calibration and validation steps.