Network hydraulics with EPANET

Module 0: Introduction and Context (1 hour)

Theoretical Content:

• Course presentation and instructor.
• Importance of hydraulic modeling in sanitary engineering.
• Introduction to Epanet: What is it, who develops it (EPA) and why is it the global standard?
• Practical applications in the sector: design, operation, rehabilitation and planning.
• Concept of a mathematical model and its life cycle (creation, calibration, use).

Module 1: Fundamentals of Hydraulics Applied to Modeling (2 hours)

Theoretical and Practical Content:

• Review of key principles: Continuity Equation. Energy Equation (Bernoulli).
• Pressure losses: Darcy-Weisbach and Hazen-Williams formulas (practical approach to selecting "C" coefficients).
• Components of a supply network: nodes/lines, tanks, reservoirs, pumps, valves.
• Types of analysis: Extended period analysis vs. Instant point in time analysis.

Module 2: First Steps with the Epanet Environment (3 hours)

Practical Content (Guided Workshop):

• Download, install and explore the graphical interface.
• Preference and unit settings (metric system).
• Toolbar and main panels (Map, Data Lists, Results).

Workshop 1: Creating a simple network (1 reservoir, 4-5 nodes, 4-5 pipes).

• Draw and edit elements.
• Enter basic data: dimensions, demands, diameters, lengths.
• Running the first simulation.
• Interpreting basic results: How to read colors, labels, and pressure and flow graphs.

Module 3: Construction and Analysis of a Realistic Model (4 hours)

Practical Content (Guided Workshop):

Workshop 2: Modeling a ring network.

• Definition of global properties and calculation options.
• Assignment of demand patterns of consumption (schedules).
• Pump insertion and configuration: definition of load vs. flow curves.
• Insertion and configuration of valves (control, pressure reducing, etc.).
• Advanced results analysis: use of the results manager, generation of longitudinal profiles, generation of pressure and flow vs. time graphs, creation of custom reports.

Module 4: Model Calibration and Scenario Analysis (4 hours)

Theoretical and Practical Content:

• Theory: What is calibration and why is it crucial? Sources of error.
• Practice: Calibration methodology.
  • Comparison of model results with field data (measured pressures and flow rates).
  • Calibration parameter adjustment: pipe roughness (C-HW) and demands.

Workshop 3: Scenario Analysis.

• Using the "Scenarios" tool to compare alternatives.
• Simulation of critical conditions: peak demand time, fire condition, failure of a main pipe or pump.
• Analysis of the network's capacity for future expansions.

Module 5: Comprehensive Project and Advanced Applications (4 hours)

Practical Content (Project Work):

• Final Project: Participants will work on a realistic case (e.g., design of a network extension, rehabilitation of a low-pressure area).
• Project phases: interpretation of plans and data collection, construction of the base model, calibration (if applicable) or validation of the design, scenario analysis and optimization, generation of results plans and executive reports.
• Introduction to water quality modeling (residual chlorine tracing).
• Strategies for modeling very large networks (division into sectors).

Module 6: Closing and Final Evaluation (2 hours)

• Final Project Presentations (1 hour): groups or individuals briefly present their project, methodology and findings.
• Space for feedback from the instructor and peers.
• Q&A and Best Practices Session: Tips to avoid common mistakes.
• Resources to continue learning (forums, bibliography, supplements).