Optimization of looped water distribution systems

Linear programming gradient (LPG) method is an important method for the optimum design of looped water distribution systems, but the complex algorithm and slow convergence restrict its applications. In this paper, the design of the looped water distribution system is considered as a linear programming with variable coefficients. The derivatives of the cost with respect to pipe flows for water distribution system are deduced accurately for the first time. An efficient iterative algorithm for searching the optimum pipe flows is developed. An example is presented. It is shown that the new algorithm has better convergence than present algorithms.