AWWA ACE54260

Hydraulic network analysis is a powerful tool used in many aspects of water distribution planning, design, operation, management, emergency response, system reliability analysis, fire flow capacity evaluation, and water quality simulations. With advances in hydraulic modeling software and the abundance of user-friendly features, constructing hydraulic models has become simpler than ever. Furthermore, recent built-in calibration and optimization tools can further simplify the calibration process. In addition to the powerful software tools, a variety of user skills are required for successfully constructing and calibrating water distribution hydraulic models. This paper discusses the best practices, applicable to most modeling approaches, that enhance the integrity and quality of assembled hydraulic water models. Though most practices are technical in nature, some focus on the usually overlooked yet highly effective people skills. Includes 6 references, tables, figures.