A tool for calculating energy audits in water pressurized networks

Abstract

This paper presents a matlab-based educational software (UAenergy) developed to compute the energy audit of a water pressurized network. This analysis allows accounting for all the energy involved in the water distribution stage in the urban water cycle, showing that the energy balance is maintained —the energy input to the pressurized network is equal to the energy output plus the energy dissipated through friction. This energy audit requires a previous water balance and the hydraulic model of the network, both of which are necessary to know the energy flows through the system’s boundaries. Obtained results show the energetic effect of every element (pipelines, pumps, valves, etc.) in the water distribution and also the influence of water losses in a leaky network. This software can be used for students and practitioners in the water sector, and it is possible to identify the improvement actions that will make the system more efficient.