Design of a Distribution Network Scale Model for Monitoring Drinking Water Quality

Abstract

To investigate transport of drinking water in topologically complex distribution networks and associated monitoring problems, experimental facilities can provide a relevant complement to numerical models and living laboratoriess or playgrounds. An experimental facility was designed which is a scale model of an existing supply zone serving ∼100,000 customers. The facility was designed for (1) investigating transport of water qualities and potential contaminations; (2) providing a fast and flexible testing ground for networks of real-time water quality and quantity sensors prior to installment in live distribution networks; and (3) training and demonstration purposes. A scale analysis was used to investigate the possibilities including in a single facility the processes turbulence, turbulent diffusion, particle transport mode, and shear stress in a way that represents the real-life network environment, and to determine the facility’s spatial and temporal dimensions. Using hydraulic modeling, it was verified that the main flow patterns in the facility are representative for the real-life network. The final design includes a 4×8 m model, transparent PVC pipes, and a decentralized fast control system that includes 28 demand and 4 supply locations to simulate complex flow patterns. The setup is currently being prepared for experimentation. This paper describes the theoretical background and the design and construction process.