Application of global optimization to the design of pipe networks

This paper presents an approach to the optimal design of pipe networks for water distribution. Design is important it often comprises major part of the whole investment in such a system. The problem is solved using a global optimization tool with various random search algorithms and a network simulation model that can handle both static and dynamic loading conditions. An appropriate interface between the two tools performs the decoding of the potential solutions into pipe networks for construction and calculates the corresponding network costs. Two algorithms, adaptive cluster covering and genetic algorithm, yielded promising solutions enabling a choice between accuracy and required computer time. The proposed optimization setup can handle any type of loading condition and neither makes any restriction on the type of hydraulic components in the network nor does it need analytical cost functions for the pipes.