Optimal aggregation of users' water demand and leakage for intermittent water distribution network modelling

A novel methodology for the optimal aggregation of water demands and leakages in the modelling of intermittent water distribution networks (WDNs) is presented in this paper. The methodology uses the K-means clustering algorithm for performing aggregation based on the spatial data of the network nodes. The optimal aggregation level is evaluated considering both the hydraulic accuracy and the required computational effort of the model. The methodology is applied to a real intermittent WDN located in southern Italy. For the application, a calibrated hydraulic model of the network was used to describe the water demands of users equipped with private tanks, and leakages associated with nodes of the water distribution network. Results show that a suitable balance between accuracy and computational effort of the model can be achieved for levels of aggregation in the range of 0.5–1.0 tanks per km of network. The proposed methodology offers a practical approach for simplifying the modelling of intermittent water distribution networks, without compromising simulation accuracy. The potential for transfer of the methodology and of the obtained results to other networks with different sizes, layouts, and intermittent supply schemes requires further research.