A leak detection method based on Bayesian theory and Fisher’s law was developed for water distribution systems. A hydraulic model was associated with the parameters of leaks (location, extent). The randomness of parameter values was quantified by probability density function and updated by Bayesian theory. Values of the parameters were estimated based on Fisher’s law. The amount of leaks was estimated by back propagation neural network. Based on flow characteristics in water distribution systems, the location of leaks can be estimated. The effectiveness of the proposed method was illustrated by simulated leak data of node pressure head and flow rate of pipelines in a test pipe network, and the leaks were spotted accurately and renovated on time.
The optimal operation of water distribution networks under local pipe failures, such as water main breaks, was proposed. Based on a hydraulic analysis and a simulation of water distribution networks, a macroscopic model for a network under a local pipe failure was established by the statistical regression. After the operation objectives under a local pipe failure were determined, the optimal operation model was developed and solved by the genetic algorithm. The program was developed and examined by a city distribution network. The optimal operation alternative shows that the electricity cost is saved approximately 11%, the income of the water corporation is increased approximately 5%, and the pressure in the water distribution network is distributed evenly to ensure the network safe operation. Therefore, the proposed method for optimal operation under local pipe failure is feasible and cost-effective.
