In recent years, pumps as turbines have been replacing pressure-regulating valves as a system for regulating pressure and reducing water losses in the water distribution network, as they combine leakage reduction with the production of hydroelectric power. However, when a pump as turbine is installed, it is necessary to implement real-time pressure control. This study proposes an innovative algorithm that combines the integral control with a feedforward control in order to minimize the time to reach the desired pressure under flow variation. The algorithm was tested through laboratory tests showing an effective optimization of real-time pressure control.
Feedforward and Feedback Control of a Prototype for Pressure Regulation and Hydropower Generation in Water Distribution Network
Diglio G.
;Di Menna F.;Marini G.
2026-01-01
Abstract
In recent years, pumps as turbines have been replacing pressure-regulating valves as a system for regulating pressure and reducing water losses in the water distribution network, as they combine leakage reduction with the production of hydroelectric power. However, when a pump as turbine is installed, it is necessary to implement real-time pressure control. This study proposes an innovative algorithm that combines the integral control with a feedforward control in order to minimize the time to reach the desired pressure under flow variation. The algorithm was tested through laboratory tests showing an effective optimization of real-time pressure control.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
