Leak detection and location in a real water distribution network using a model-based technique

[EN] This paper presents a practical application of a model-based approach for leak detection and location in a real water distribution network. The methodology is divided into three main steps: 1) identification of the DMA with the highest leakage volume; 2) hydraulic model update and 3) leak location by inverse analysis. The water distribution network is monitored through 14 flowrate and pressure sensors and data were available for 1.5 years. The methodology is applied 15 times, specifically to five weekdays in three different periods with high seasonal variation (summer, spring and winter). Regardless of the analysed period, obtained results point to the presence of a leak with ca. 4 m3/h in a specific area of the network. This approximate location is a starting point for the application of more precise leak location techniques using acoustic equipment.