Optimal decision-making on pipeline sizes of water networks under seismic conditions

Abstract

In this study, an optimal decision-making model on pipeline sizes of a water transmission network has been proposed. The purpose of the optimal decision-making model is to maximize seismic performance with limited construction cost. The proposed model estimates network performance using spatially correlated seismic attenuation law, determination of the failure status of the network component, and numerical modeling of water networks. For this purpose, MATLAB code has also been developed to enable EPANET analysis using pressure-based analysis and numerical modeling of network systems. To verify the proposed model, an actual urban water network has been adopted, taking into account the location and magnitude of the historical earthquake. In addition, two performance indices were introduced to assess network performance. The numerical results show that the optimized network model increased system serviceability and node serviceability by 9.9% and 11%, respectively, and the average node pressure of the network increased 3.6m over the existing model.