epanet 1

[z8e]

Hi,

Guys in my office use EPANet to model simple distribution system expansions (usually 8" mains, C900 plastic, pretty standard). I don't know the software very well but I'm concerned about its ability to accurately model sources. The guy that uses it just puts in the static pressure from hydrant test data and calls it good. There doesn't seem to be any way to input residual pressure and flow to accurately model how the existing system is acting. Does anyone have any comment on that, or suggestions for some better software?

Thanks.

 

[RWF7437]

You can model the situation you describe in EPANet. Simply substitute a "tank" rather than a "source". By definition a source is an unlimited supply of water at a constant head while a tank is limited and the head may vary as the duration on flow increases.

Try several easy scenarios in EPANet to get used to how it works, or spend thousands of dollars on "better" software.

good luck

 

[cvg]

the software is fine, but the user is not doing a very accurate job of modelling. just putting in the static pressure will not give accurate results. This "source" probably needs to be modelled as a pump, not static or a tank to give accurate results.

 

[z8e]

Thank you for the responses. I see how we can improve how we're using the software but I'm still not sure there's a clean way to input hydrant flow tests into EPANet, so that we can use those flow tests to model a supply. Any additional pointers would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[cvg]

you should be able to plot head vs pressure from the hydrant data. use that data to create a "pump". That will give substantially different results than just using the static pressure.

 

[hydrae]

I assume that would be flow vs pressure....
Hydrae

 

[cvg]

correct, as usual I type faster than I can think...