Optimization-Based Methodology for Selection of Pump-as-Turbine in Water Distribution Networks: Effects of Different Objectives and Machine Operation Limits on Best Efficiency Point
Publication: Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management
Volume 147, Issue 5
Abstract
In recent years, many researchers have recognized pressure reducing valves (PRVs) as potential microhydropower (MHP) sites, aiming to improve the efficiency of water networks. Pump-as-turbines (PATs) have been pointed out as the most suitable technology because of their favorable cost. Most of the methodologies available in the literature for selection of a PAT to replace a PRV follow a traditional approach that is based on scaling aprototype data using affinity curves, thus restricting the solution space only to these curves. The optimization-based methodology presented in this paper uses the classical hydraulic regulation scheme with the Nedler–Mead simplex direct search algorithm to search for the optimal solution within space that is constrained only by the boundaries of available centrifugal PATs on the market. The methodology also defines the PAT’s operation limits based on the PAT’s relative mechanical power. Improvements gained by using the novel methodology have been demonstrated on real-world case studies from Ireland and Italy that were previously used in the literature. The results of the considered sites also suggest that the maximal global plant’s efficiency is around 80% of the maximal efficiency of the theoretically optimal PAT. The paper also examines effects of different objective functions and different PATs’ operation limits on the selection of the optimal PAT.
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Data Availability Statement
Some or all data, models, or code used during the study were provided by a third party. These are: Flow and head recordings at case study valves. Direct request for these materials may be made to the provider as indicated in the Acknowledgments.
Some or all data, models, or code that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request. These are: MATLAB code used for the analysis in the presented paper; Pump characteristic curves booklets used to define the availability boundaries (KSB 2018).
Acknowledgments
This investigation was part funded by the European Regional Development Funds, Interreg Atlantic Area Programme 2014–2020, through the REDAWN project (EAPA 198_2016). The authors would also like to thank Dublin City Council and Seville Water Supply Company (EMASESA) for providing the recordings at their pressure reducing valves.
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Published In
Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management
Volume 147 • Issue 5 • May 2021
Copyright
© 2021 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Apr 10, 2020
Accepted: Nov 3, 2020
Published online: Feb 27, 2021
Published in print: May 1, 2021
Discussion open until: Jul 27, 2021
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