Process Modelling & Control

Process Modelling & Control

(1) Durban Water Distribution Optimisation: The coordination of water transfers to some 350 reservoirs in the network must maximise the use of low tariff power (off-peak), yet residence times cannot allow chlorine to decay below specification. This is a hybrid constrained predictive control problem involving variables which are both discrete (pump switches) and continuous (water levels, Cl2 concentrations). An earlier study using direct branch-and-bound techniques identified the need for a special approach to handle the whole system. (2) Durban Water Loss Detection by Network Data Reconciliation: The aim is to pinpoint the locations of water loss in the distribution network. This will include analysis of the metering from reservoirs to individual consumers. Data captured by the central control system, as well as spot neighbourhood meter readings, must be considered. Measurement confidences need to be allocated and an algorithm developed that can access existing record formats and handle the magnitude of this network reconciliation problem. A full EPANET model of the system is available.