Genetic algorithm optimisation for water distribution system design at the Gold Coast

Abstract

A two part optimisation study using the computer search technique of Genetic Algorithm optimisation has been carried out for the Gold Coast area. The study covered ten water supply zones from Nerang South to Coolangatta. Part one of the study focussed on three water supply zones. The Optimatics Genetic Algorithm (OGA) was used to optimise pipe sizes, zone boundary locations and storage sizes that satisfied Gold Coast Water’s (GCW) hydraulic constraints whilst dramatically reducing the cost of the augmentations to the system. Part two focussed on the transmission mains for all ten water supply zones in the area. The OGA was able to optimise pipe sizes, pump sizes and valve settings to satisfy the GCW tank refill, node pressures and pipe velocity criteria, whilst again reducing the overall cost of the required augmentations to the system.