Method for water distribution systems reliability evaluation

A new methodology for water resources systems reliability evaluation is presented. The proposedmethodology considers both: mechanical reliability (probability of pipe failure) and reliability of hydraulicparameters in the nodes and links (pressure, velocity). On the basis of this methodology the model NetRelwas developed. This model is useful for determining reliability of systems with different configurations andcomplexity. Also, methodology for optimal reliability allocation, based on genetic algorithms, is proposed.That methodology, coupled with the reliability evaluation method, is an efficient tool for solving problems ofoptimal allocation of water distribution network reliability.