Abstract: A method and system for performing a criticality analysis of a water distribution network is provided. The method and system provides for segmentation of the system which allows a user to determine the set of elements that comprise segments, which in turn are the smallest portion of a water distribution system that can be isolated by valving. Isolating valves are included as elements in the set of elements that are used by an associated hydraulic solver engine to segment the water distribution network. Once the network has been segmented, a criticality analysis is performed whereby a hydraulic simulation is run for an outage of one or more segments, and the shortfall in demand supplied to other segments is calculated. The system provides for a linking of the ability to automatically identify segments with a hydraulic analysis model to enable a user not only to identify segments, but to rank their importance based on a variety of user defined metrics.

Abstract: A computer software program provides an algorithm that solves for unknown demands (and junction pressures) within a modeling system that uses a generalized, unified loop-node formulation. The program can be used to calculate the available demand (i.e., the amount of water that is to be supplied) according to the nodal pressure. Both nodal heads and flows are simultaneously solved using a gradient algorithm, which allows, in accordance with the present invention, the model to simulate situations where a change in pressure affects the quantity of water used. Criticality analyses for segments of a system in such pressure dependent scenarios can also be performed using the software program of the present invention.