Leak localization in water distribution networks using model-based Bayesian reasoning

Abstract

This paper presents a new method for leak localization in Water Distribution Networks that uses a model-based approach combined with Bayesian reasoning. Probability density functions in model-based pressure residuals are calibrated off-line for all the possible leak scenarios by using a hydraulic simulator, being leak size uncertainty, demand uncertainty and sensor noise considered. A Bayesian reasoning is applied online to the available residuals to determine the location of leaks present in the Water Distribution Network. A time horizon method combined with the Bayesian reasoning is also proposed to improve the accuracy of the leak localization method. The Hanoi District Metered Area case study is used to illustrate the performance of the proposed approach.