Cost Minimization of Water Distribution Systems Using Simulation-Based Optimization

Water distribution networks are an important part of urban infrastructure, ensuring continuous water supply for cities, industrial plants, and agricultural fields. However, the implementation, maintenance, and operating costs of these systems are extremely high. This paper presents the capital cost minimization of water distribution networks by optimizing the pipe diameters and network layout. The minimization is performed using a simulation-based optimization that combines a Genetic Algorithm with the Python package Water Network Tool for Resilience (WNTR). In addition, the optimization procedure involves an assessment of the criticality of water distribution networks, to maintain the appropriate robustness of the network. Optimized networks demonstrate significant improvements in terms of reducing capital costs while simultaneously meeting the desired system resilience and hydraulic limitations.