AWWA JAW26654

One would think that water distribution model calibration would be a straightforward, logical process. Sometimes, however, the best tools for model calibration consist of a lot of detective work, a little intuition, and just a pinch of luck. Some anecdotes on model calibration in Austin, Texas, illustrate this principle. Model calibration in Austin, Texas involves comparing predicted heads and flow rates against accurately measured values over a wide range of flow conditions. Usually hydrant flow tests are conducted as part of model calibration data collection to provide data on heads over a wide range of flows. Conducting fire hydrant flow tests with several residual pressure gauges is the best way to resolve questions about valve status or the topology of the system. The author concludes that it is unlikely a simple analytical procedure or optimization technique to calibrate a model will ever be developed. Includes 7 references.