Estimation of real-time water fluxes in water distribution system on the basis of pressure measurements

Experience in calibration of water distribution system (WDS) models shows large uncertainties of demands estimated on the basis of typical hourly values for different types of consumers. The typical dynamics of demands, which are used for the lack of more detailed information, differ from real-time demands in time and in space. It makes it difficult to estimate real-time water fluxes in WDS which are necessary for evaluation of the propagation rate of the contaminated zones in case of deliberate or accidental chemical or biological threats. The aim of this investigation was to test the possibility of estimating real-time water flow fluxes in District Meter Areas (DMAs) on the basis of pressure measurements. Results have been tested on the operational WDS.