Optimization in Design of Pumping Systems

A method for the direct least-cost solution of pipe size in a pumping system consisting of pumping station and pipe for known flow incorporating various cost functions is being developed. The method developed gives optimum size of pipe in a pumping system in seeking an overall least-cost solution. The method has been extended for long-term planning to determine optimum timing of phasing a pumping system with growing demand rate. The cost sensitivity of the system with the various parameters has been studied, and a comparatively simple solution for optimum size of a pipeline in a pumping system has been suggested. The method outlined herein is simple and can be efficiently used for least-cost design of a pumping system with the help of a calculator. The applicability of the approach has been illustrated with a problem.