Distribution System Flushing Practice Assessment Utilizing Real Time Trihalomethane (THM) and Chlorine Residual Measurements

摘要

Managing water quality in low demand-high water age areas of the distribution system is a challenge. Best management practices for this challenge include discouraging the use of dead-end mains, changing the flow of water via looping, and ensuring flushing capability at all areas of the distribution system (e.g. installation of flushing appurtenances). Automatic flushing devices can be used to provide water demand to specific locations to reduce the water age and the operating conditions for the automatic flushing devices can be set by maintaining a target chlorine disinfectant residual. Changing water quality or distribution system conditions, however, may alter the proper setting of these devices. The cost to operate these devices in the form of lost water can be significant; therefore an opportunity for savings through improved operational management exists.