Pipe criticality analysis system in water distribution systems using multi-criteria aggregation

Abstract

The aim of the study was to develop the concept of a system supporting the analysis of pipe criticality in water distribution systems and to organise the notion of criticality in the context of infrastructure operation by maintenance services. The study reviews existing approaches to criticality assessment, including topological, hydraulic, water quality, security-related and economic measures, and then proposes their integration in the form of a multi-criteria assessment model. In the implementation part, an original criticality analysis system is presented, using data describing the structure of the water distribution network and its operational parameters. The analysis takes into account, among others, the Todini index, the number of valves required to isolate a pipe, repair time, a robustness coefficient and the strategic importance of consumers. A method for aggregating individual measures into a single synthetic indicator is proposed, enabling the classification of pipes according to their importance for the functioning of the system. The analyses carried out on a test model of a water distribution network showed that the use of a multi-criteria approach enables more effective identification of infrastructure elements with the highest criticality. The obtained results support improved planning of operational activities, prioritisation of maintenance and repair works, and decision-making in emergency situations.