Why Hydraulic Modelling?
Engineers understand system performance by analysing pressures, flows, tank levels, pipe losses and other key parameters. Hydraulic modelling combines GIS, engineering data and operational information to provide a clearer understanding of how a water system performs today and how it may perform under future conditions
Why is Hydraulic Modelling Important?
Hydraulic modelling provides a practical basis for planning, operating and maintaining water supply systems. It can help to:
- Optimise System Design
- Test infrastructure improvements and determine whether existing and proposed facilities can meet current and future demand by optimising pumps, valves, tanks and other system controls.
- Leak Detection and Network Performance
- Compare modelled and actual flows and pressures to identify unusual conditions that may indicate leaks or other network problems.
- Emergency Planning
- Simulate events such as pipe bursts, pump failures and power outages and assess their effect on the network so as to support emergency response planning, isolation strategies and alternative supply routes.
- Water Quality Management
- Analyse water movement and water age within the network and identify areas with low circulation or prolonged retention.
- Regulatory and Operational Compliance
- Support assessment of whether the water system meets applicable supply, capacity, pressure and operational requirements.
- Planning for Future Growth
- Test future demand and proposed network expansions to determine whether the system has sufficient capacity to serve existing and new customers.
Preparing a Hydraulic Model
A hydraulic model is developed through a structured process;
1. Data Collection
Available water system information is gathered to improve model accuracy. This may include:
- GIS and CAD maps
- Pipe locations, sizes and materials
- Valves, tanks and reservoirs
- Elevation and topographic data
- Pump capacities and operating conditions
- SCADA and other operational data
2. System Mapping
The water network is mapped in the modelling software, including pipes, pumps, valves, tanks, reservoirs and other components. GIS data can be imported directly where available, while missing information can be added manually. Each component is assigned relevant details such as size, material, capacity and hydraulic characteristics.
3. Model Setup
The model is configured with water demands, pump and valve settings, tank levels and operational controls. Different demand conditions can then be simulated, including:
- Average demand – normal day-to-day water use.
- Maximum demand – higher-use periods when system demand is at its peak.
- Low or static demand – conditions with little or no water use, used to assess maximum pressures.
- Fire flow demand – where fire-fighting requirements apply.
4. Model Calibration
The model results are compared with actual system conditions to improve accuracy. Information from system operators, flow measurements, pressure readings and operational records can be used to identify and correct differences. This may involve updating pipe sizes, connections, equipment settings or operating conditions.
5. System Evaluation
Once calibrated, the model can be used to assess system performance, identify pressure and capacity problems, locate operational weaknesses and test the impact of proposed improvements or network expansion.
6. Reporting and Mapping
Model results can be presented through maps, tables and reports showing key indicators such as pressure, flow, velocity and pipe head loss. Different operating and planning scenarios can also be compared.