Modélisation théorique et validation expérimentale de la réduction des fuites par la modulation de la pression

Abstract

The drinking water System has the basic function to deliver continuously good water quality vvith a sufficient quantity at adéquate pressure. However, the distribution network undergoes dégradation over time which can engender leaks. Efforts shouid then be granted to minimize leaks which cause water loss. The pressure modulation may be an effective way to reduce the leakage flow in the drinking water system. The choice of this method of intervention is based on ground conditions and local factors of a municipality. The aim of this paper is to présent a new fonnulation of the theoretical model that links leakage flow rate and pressure rate in the network. The proposed model has the advantage of taking into account the geometry of the leakage and stiffness of the material of the pipe. An expérimental assembly was used to analyze the parameters of the theoretical model in a controUed environment where the geometry of the leak and the material of the pipe can be changed. The expérimental study has identified the parameters involved in the theoretical model, and found that reducing the leakage rate dépends not only on pressure but aiso dépends on pipe material. size of the leak and the initial pressure in the network. So, for the same amount of pressure réduction, reducing the leakage rate will be higher in the flexible pipe with high pressures.

Date	23 Apr 2010
Original language	French
Awarding Institution	École de technologie supérieure
Supervisor	Saad Bennis (Supervisor)