Optimization of Gravity‐Fed Water Distribution Systems: Application

Abstract

A method for the optimal design of multisource, looped, gravityfed water distribution systems subjected to a single loading pattern is illustrated through a design example. The proposed methodology uses linear programming (LP) techniques for two different purposes. Initially, an LP problem similar to the classical transportation problem is formulated and solved to obtain the design distribution graph. This system is then optimized by successively formulating (if necessary) and solving an LP problem for obtaining the locally optimal solution. General comments on the suggested methodology and the limitations are also presented.