Development of a Fuzzy Inference Performance Index for Ferrous Drinking Water Pipelines

Abstract

Accurate prediction of water pipeline structural and functional deterioration plays an essential role in the utility asset management process and capital investment planning. A key to implementing an asset management strategy is a comprehensive understanding of asset condition and performance and how asset condition and performance change over time. The primary objective of this paper is to develop a fuzzy inference performance index for metallic drinking water pipelines. Furthermore, the developed fuzzy inference performance index is applied to the Western Virginia Water Authority (WVWA). Evaluation of the performance index is accomplished through testing of artificial, field, and lab data. Overall, the fuzzy inference performance model was successfully developed to aid in the evaluation of current drinking water infrastructure systems. The fuzzy inference performance model incorporated with an infrastructure management plan will aid in the prioritization of future inspection, repair, rehabilitation, and replacement of water mains.