Water utilities and developers

Water operations and leakage management

Component based water balance computer software

The methodologies used in network modelling and pressure management must be modified and refined to suit each unique distribution system.

Halcrow uses specifically developed software packages which aid the consequence of alternative strategies to be analysed. An overall water balance calculation can be undertaken resulting in an overall estimation of leakage.

Subsequent to this, a process of iteration is used to establish the most economic level of leakage and associated leakage control activities.

Typically, the developed software originally utilised the data assembled by the UK National Leakage Initiative from investigations carried out by water companies across the country.

An example of the methodology available is the use of BABE (Background and Burst Estimates) software. This is a well developed package and enables leakage strategies to be 'tuned' to a client's particular circumstances and requirements.

More recent software has been developed using Internationally gathered information collated by the International Water Association (IWA).

In the software, mathematical algorithms have been developed to simulate the behaviour of distribution systems. User adjustable variables in the computer programs enable the calculations to be calibrated to the particular system being analysed.

Typical variables are mains length and condition, pressure, burst frequency, population and metering policy.

Used by experienced Halcrow leakage practitioners, in conjunction with strategic planning, this can be a powerful tool and helps with the evaluation of strategies at a broad company wide level, as well as refining leakage management policies.

Also see our Section dealing with Distribution Networks