Reprinted from Spring 2004:

 

   

Water Technologies:
Information Management Model

Today's water utility manager needs to organize, integrate and analyze large volumes of data from multiple sources.
Inside Scoop:

» Modeling and GIS Integration

»
Steady-State VS. Transient Modeling

Understanding how to best utilize water system GIS and modeling tools and techniques will facilitate this task while saving time and money.

 

 

Hydraulic Modelers, Mike Brown, PE, and Jamie Shambaugh, PE, have written numerous articles on these topics including:

> “Bridging the Gap Between Modelers and GIS Analysts: Techniques for Successful Integration of GIS and Models” and

> “Implementation of Transient Hydraulic Computer Models in Design and Operation of Water Systems.”

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Modeling and GIS Integration

Considering that a GIS contains most of the data needed for a water distribution system hydraulic model, integrating the two is becoming more common through advances in software technology. This integration not only enables the transfer of results from the model to the GIS, but it facilitates model updates.

However, due to inherent differences between the objectives of a GIS analyst and those of a hydraulic modeler, integration isn’t always easy. Learning tips to overcome potential pitfalls is essential to reaping benefits and avoiding inefficiencies.

Steady-State VS. Transient 
Hydraulic Modeling

Steady-state hydraulic  computer models are commonly  used by water utilities for water system planning, design, and operation analyses and investigations.  Transient models, however, aren’t as widely used due to perceived complexity and previously prohibitive costs.

As  Previously Defined . . .
Hydraulic transient analysis is often referred to as “surge” or “water hammer analysis.”

While steady- state hydraulic models are often used to simulate water age, quality parameters and flow and pressure conditions that don't vary quickly over time; transient hydraulic models can be used to:

>evaluate potential water system transient pressure conditions
> design surge control equipment
> establish system operation procedures

Big Picture

Technologies and standard design practices are changing.  The usefulness and cost effectiveness of both GIS and modeling integration and transient modeling is becoming increasingly apparent in the water industry.