Water Distribution System Clustering and Partitioning Based on Social Network Algorithms

The partitioning of water distribution system is a complex process achieved defining network clusters arranged in sectors, with the complete isolation of clusters through gate valves, or arranged in districts, inserting both gate valves and flow meters. The process is generally subdivided in two phases: clustering, aimed to define the shape and dimension of network clusters, and partitioning, aimed to select pipes in which to insert flow meters or gate valves. In this paper, different clustering procedures based on social network community detection and on graph partitioning algorithms, were compared using a real water system and a large battery of performance indices.