Modelling the potable water quality in a distribution network based on the hydraulic conditions

Abstract. Abnormalities in hydraulic conditions inside a water distribution network are strongly related to the deterioration of potable water quality. Leaking pipes and valves, for instance, cause changes in water hydraulic conditions and may allow the entry of microbes to the distribution system. Flow and pressure shocks can detach soft deposits and biofilms from the pipe surface which is shown among others as the elevated concentrations of bacteria, metals and turbidity in water. On that account, monitoring the hydraulic conditions in a distribution network and utilizing this information in developing a predictive water quality model assists providing a sufficient amount of potable water with an appropriate quality for the consumers use. In this paper, the water quality at the end part of the district metered area is modelled based on only the water flow and pressure measurements along the distribution network. The developed model can be utilized in proactive operation as it is able to show the potable water quality hours in advance before it is discovered at the end part of the distribution network.