Modeling Dynamic Behavior of Water Distribution Systems for Control Purposes

Abstract

Water distribution systems (WDSs) are becoming equipped with advanced feedback loops, which require specialized methods and software tools to model such systems. The aim of this work is to demonstrate the usefulness of the rigid water column (RWC) model to analyze the dynamic interactions between these loops and system stability. Our work fills the gap between extended period simulation, which is used for steady state analysis, and transient simulation, which is used for surge analysis. The paper proposes a generic dynamic WDS model where pipes are represented by the RWC model, while control valves, pumps, and tanks are represented by algebraic or ordinary differential equations. The model has been implemented in the MATLAB/SIMULINK environment, which provides a rich library of control components and algorithms for implemention of complex mathematical models. An industrial case study that prompted the development of the methodology is also presented.