Segment-based vulnerability analysis system for a water distribution network

A segment-based analysis system is developed to analyse the vulnerability of a water distribution network (WDN). Valve-enclosed segments of a WDN can be efficiently identified by the system using a proposed depth-first search-based algorithm and are illustrated by a Web-based geographic information system. Critical segments, whose failures can significantly impact downstream water supply, are identified by another proposed identification algorithm. With the auxiliary network established from the identified segments, the impact of pipe failures could be assessed and the area affected by a failure event can be effectively delineated. A simulation program using the EPANET2 toolkit is also developed for estimating the impact of failure events. Two case studies are implemented to demonstrate the applicability of the developed system. The developed system can efficiently assess the segment-based vulnerability of a WDN and improve management and response for single or multiple segment failures.