Clustering and multi-objective operation of water distribution systems: Water age, leakage and cost trade-off

This paper proposes a multi-objective optimization approach to design pressure driven water distribution systems (WDSs) consisting of numerous elements including pipes, pumps, and storage tanks. The proposed approach includes four stages: mapping the WDS into a network, subdividing the network into segregated district metered areas (DMAs), closing some feed lines which connect the DMAs and re-operating the pumps. The suggested approach solves the multi-objective optimization problem using a genetic algorithm to competitively reduce the water leakage, water age and the operational cost in the WDS, while satisfying customer requirements for minimum pressure, resulting in a Pareto solution chart. The advantages of the proposed approach are illustrated through case studies.