Optimization of Gravity‐Fed Water Distribution Systems: Theory

Abstract

A method is developed for the optimal design of multisource, looped, gravity‐fed water distribution systems subjected to a single loading pattern. The method is based on linear programming (LP) techniques and produces a locally optimal solution. Initially, design feasibility constraints are derived to check whether network design and therefore network optimization is feasible. Based on classical transportation problem principles, a theory is developed to formulate an LP problem for obtaining design paths from the source nodes to the demand nodes and thereby for obtaining the design distribution graph for the entire distribution system. Separate LP optimization models are then formulated to deal with the either the