Integration of Geographic Information System and Probabilistic Analysis for Optimized Pipe Infrastructure Decisions

The need for rational maintenance decisions under uncertainty for municipal pipe infrastructure such as the water distribution system has been clear for some time. However, there have been substantial challenges associated with integrating optimization analysis tools to city inventories, and producing information of direct use to City Engineers. New features have therefore been programmed into a geographic information system (GIS), including the incorporation of an optimization routine, and aids to data processing. Considering the specific characteristics of the initial pipeline and soil geometries and materials, as well as established models for pipe material degradation with time, the new application minimizes total expected cost during service period or the expected cost per unit service period to evaluate optimal rehabilitation scheduling. The system is illustrated using the pipe system from industry partner, the City of Hamilton.