Network modelling and the improvement of distribution network management

The paper describes Severn Trent Water's (STW) approach in maximising the efficiency of its water distribution systems through technical audits and improving management access to up to date and accurate information. A technical study of STW's distribution system was undertaken to review the district meter area (DMA) structure, to optimise pressure to all customers, to improve access to information, to create discrete Control Groups and to configure on-line decision support flow charts onto the companywide telemetry system. The study considered some 1,993 district meter areas covering all customers supplied by the company, 1,900 existing and 300 new pressure management areas, 170 Control Groups and associated telemetry mimics and decision support flow charts. Central to the success of the project was the definition and consistent application of standards and procedures. An integrated approach was adopted to accommodate similar activities within each of the Company's 14 operational Districts. Network models and modelling techniques were used to validate designs for new district meter areas, to identify and design optimum pressure management areas and to define control groups.