The analysis of water distribution networks has to take into account the variability of users’ wateruddemand and the variability of network boundary conditions. In complex systems, e.g. thoseudcharacterized by the presence of local private tanks and intermittent distribution, this variabilityudsuggests the use of dynamic models that are able to evaluate the rapid variability of pressures andudflows in the network. The dynamic behavior of the network also affects the performance of valvesudthat are used for controlling the network. Pressure Reduction Valves (PRVs) are used for controllingudpressure and reducing leakages. Highly variable demands can produce significant fluctuation of theudPRV set point, causing related transient phenomena that propagate through the network and mayudresult in water quality problems, unequal distribution of resources among users, and premature wearudof the pipe infrastructure. A model was developed in previous studies and an additional module forudpressure control was implemented able to analyze PRVs in a fully dynamic numerical framework. Theudmodel was demonstrated to be robust and reliable in the implementation of pressure managementudareas in the network. The model was applied to a district of the Palermo network (Italy). The districtudwas monitored and pressure as well as flow data were available for model calibration.
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