Hydraulic Model Calibration Archives

Challenge

A water utility in Regional Victoria, experiencing significant population growth within its service area, recognised the need to proactively plan for future water demands and ensure continued reliable service.

Accurate hydraulic modelling is crucial for effective network planning, but the utility’s existing model requires calibration with real-world data to ensure its accuracy and predictive capabilities. Collecting this data across a vast network, especially during the high-demand summer months, presented logistical and resource challenges.

Solution

Following a competitive selection process, Aqua Analytics was engaged to conduct a comprehensive pressure logging campaign to support the utility’s hydraulic model calibration efforts. Leveraging their extensive experience in water network monitoring and a large fleet of IoT pressure loggers, Aqua Analytics offered a turnkey solution to address the utility’s needs.

Our methodology included:

Strategic Planning: Aqua Analytics collaborated with the utility to develop a strategic plan for deploying 56 pressure loggers across the network. This involved identifying optimal locations to capture representative pressure data and ensure comprehensive coverage.
Logger Deployment: Our skilled technicians deployed a combination of Ovarro XiLog and Gutermann ZoneLog devices, utilising their expertise to ensure secure and reliable installations.
Logger Survey and Elevation Data: To ensure the accuracy of the pressure data and its correlation with the hydraulic model, Aqua Analytics conducted precise surveying and elevation measurements at each logger location. This process utilised high-precision GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) equipment, capable of achieving centimeter-level accuracy. The precise elevation data ensured that the pressure readings were correctly referenced within the hydraulic model.
Data Acquisition and Management: The IoT pressure loggers continuously monitored and transmitted pressure data via cellular networks, providing real-time insights into the network's hydraulic behavior. Aqua Analytics managed all aspects of data acquisition, storage, and quality control.
Comprehensive Reporting: Upon completion of the 10-week monitoring period, Aqua Analytics delivered a comprehensive report to the utility, including detailed pressure data, analysis, and visualisations.

Project Outcomes

High-Quality Data: The project provided the utility with reliable, high-resolution pressure data, essential for accurate hydraulic model calibration. By leveraging high-quality IoT devices, that utilise 4G, NB-IoT and LTE Cat-M1, we were able to deploy a range of sensor configurations that provided regular data feeds to ensure insights could be obtained promptly throughout the project.
Enhanced Model Accuracy: The calibrated model enabled the utility to make informed decisions regarding future infrastructure upgrades, capacity planning, and operational adjustments to meet the demands of a growing population.
Improved Network Efficiency: The insights gained from the pressure logging campaign helped the utility optimise network performance, reduce water loss, and ensure a sustainable water supply.

Conclusion

Aqua Analytics’ pressure logging expertise and comprehensive service offering were crucial in supporting the utility’s hydraulic model calibration efforts.

By providing reliable data and seamless project management, Aqua Analytics empowered the utility to proactively plan for future water demands, ensuring a resilient and efficient water network for years to come.

Our full-service approach to such projects ensures seamless delivery to clients and their consultants.

If you require pressure logging or assistance with hydraulic model calibration in Australia or New Zealand, contact us today.