Model Maintenance

Striking the right balance between maintaining and rebuilding your network models for optimal value can be a challenging endeavour. The lifespan of a model is subjective and hinges on the pace of development within a network area. Various factors, including housing or commercial growth, rezoning, pressure management initiatives, and mains rehabilitation schemes, can exert a profound influence on the hydraulics of the network. These changes inevitably lead to a divergence between model results and the evolving reality of the network. Navigating this dynamic landscape requires a nuanced approach to ensure that your network models continuously deliver the best value for your investment.

HydroCo brings a wealth of experience to the table when it comes to updating and maintaining existing models. Our projects typically involve integrating the latest GIS revisions, followed by a meticulous series of validity checks conducted on a DMA (District Metered Area) basis. In instances where the updated model results deviate from reality, we employ a systematic approach. This includes flagging areas of concern, reviewing demand analysis, and, if necessary, conducting small-scale field testing. Our commitment is to ensure that the models accurately reflect the current state of the network, providing our clients with reliable and precise insights for effective decision-making.

The realisation of a one-click automated model maintenance process may seem like an unattainable dream, but at HydroCo, we’ve moved one step closer towards this vision. Our skilled engineers have developed a tailored process that meticulously compares modelled assets with your Geographical Information System (GIS). This innovative approach generates a series of selection lists and sub-networks highlighting new or abandoned assets that require updating in the master model.

Our modellers then seamlessly merge each sub-network into the master model, exercising careful engineering judgments to uphold the integrity and operational efficiency of the entire system. To streamline and enhance this process, HydroCo has created a suite of Ruby script tools. These tools play a pivotal role in expediting the model merge process, resulting in an impressive reduction of approximately 70% in project duration.

Specifically designed to optimise model maintenance, our suite of tools provides intuitive solutions for resolving connectivity errors, customer allocation, demand modelling, and model control changes. HydroCo’s commitment to innovation ensures that our clients benefit from an efficient and sophisticated model maintenance process, ultimately saving time and resources while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and performance.

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