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Efficient Approach for the Sectorization of Water Distribution Systems: Integrating Graph Theory and Binary Particle Swarm Optimization

Author

Listed:
  • Sabrina da Silva Corrêa Raimundo

    (Graduate Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Agreste Campus, Federal University of Pernambuco, Marielle Franco Av., Km 59, Caruaru 55014-900, Brazil)

  • Elizabeth Amaral Pastich

    (Department of Technology, Agreste Campus, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, Brazil)

  • Saulo de Tarso Marques Bezerra

    (Department of Technology, Agreste Campus, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, Brazil)

Abstract

The accelerated expansion of urban areas has significantly increased the complexity of managing water distribution systems. Network sectorization into smaller, independently controlled areas is often highlighted as an important measure to enhance operational security and reduce water losses in networks. However, identifying the optimal sectorization strategy is challenging due to the vast number of possible combinations, and existing methods still present practical limitations. This study proposes a hybrid model for the optimal design of district-metered areas in water distribution systems. The methodology combines graph theory, the Dijkstra shortest path algorithm (DSP), and the meta-heuristic binary particle swarm optimization (BPSO) algorithm. Structuring the topology of the water distribution network using graphs allows the identification of existing connections between the network components. By DSP, the shortest paths from the reservoir to the consumption points were determined, while the proposed BPSO sought the best combination of pipe conditions (open or closed) while meeting the constraint conditions. The application of the model to three real water distribution systems in João Pessoa, in northeastern Brazil, demonstrated its efficiency in sectorization projects, providing optimal solutions that meet the imposed constraints. The results highlight the model’s potential to optimize costs and enhance decision-making in water utility projects.

Suggested Citation

  • Sabrina da Silva Corrêa Raimundo & Elizabeth Amaral Pastich & Saulo de Tarso Marques Bezerra, 2025. "Efficient Approach for the Sectorization of Water Distribution Systems: Integrating Graph Theory and Binary Particle Swarm Optimization," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(9), pages 1-18, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:9:p:4231-:d:1650888
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. S. Alvisi, 2015. "A New Procedure for Optimal Design of District Metered Areas Based on the Multilevel Balancing and Refinement Algorithm," Water Resources Management: An International Journal, Published for the European Water Resources Association (EWRA), Springer;European Water Resources Association (EWRA), vol. 29(12), pages 4397-4409, September.
    2. Bruno M. Brentan & Enrique Campbell & Gustavo L. Meirelles & Edevar Luvizotto & Joaquín Izquierdo, 2017. "Social Network Community Detection for DMA Creation: Criteria Analysis through Multilevel Optimization," Mathematical Problems in Engineering, Hindawi, vol. 2017, pages 1-12, February.
    3. Carlo Giudicianni & Manuel Herrera & Armando Nardo & Kemi Adeyeye, 2020. "Automatic Multiscale Approach for Water Networks Partitioning into Dynamic District Metered Areas," Water Resources Management: An International Journal, Published for the European Water Resources Association (EWRA), Springer;European Water Resources Association (EWRA), vol. 34(2), pages 835-848, January.
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