Author(s)

A. R. S. Diniz & J. G. Dalfré Filho

Abstract

This study proposes a method for the diagnosis of real water loss and for the actions which reduce this problem in water distribution systems. By adopting the parameters involved in the evaluation of real water loss, actions targeting combat and reduction of loss are prioritized, which allows for the optimization of the available resources. The topic of water loss reduction has recently been widely discussed, which is especially related to advances in information technology and to the availability of data within Brazilian water supply systems. The greater Sao Paulo area is one of the world’s most populated areas, with 20 million inhabitants. The Water System Cantatereira of Sao Paulo is very important in this area, supplying water to 60% of the entire population. In this system, one of the most relevant distributors is the Casa Verde Sector, composed of 84.2 kilometers of water distribution networks, 11,002 connections, and 16,891 homes, all with a water flow of 201.9 l/s. With the employment of geophones, listening stems and leak noise correlation, non-visible leaks were detected in this important and complex system, when water flow and pressure were recorded. All data was analyzed and correlated with information in the Geographic Information System (GIS). This study presents the results yielded by analyzes carried out with the software Water Audit 4. This software can be applied to any water supply system and is provided at no cost by the American Water Works Association (AWWA). It was concluded that the Casa Verde Sector must develop a specific strategy for water loss reduction, based on the renovation of the facilities and on the method of storage used for pressure data. Keywords: water distribution networks, control of physical losses, leak detection, case study.

Keywords

Keywords: water distribution networks, control of physical losses, leak detection, case study.