Real-time modeling of water distribution systems: A case study

Water utilities worldwide face increasing challenges to preserve the hydraulic and water quality integrity of their water distribution networks. These challenges stem from burgeoning populations and migration to urban cities that continue to increase the load on aging, inefficient, and already strained infrastructures. This has created a pressing need for integrating supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems with network simulation models for proactive management of these networks. Such an integrated platform is the basis for the real-time smart water network decision support system (SWNDSS) described here. The proposed system has the power to transform a water utility's routine network modeling functions from planning and design to full-spectrum engagement that drives more efficient operations including managing water quality and energy, developing daily operating plans, addressing planned and emergency outages, and diagnosing and resolving field issues. Aspects of the system are presented in a case study from the Las Vegas Valley Water District (LVVWD) in Las Vegas, Nev.