Metaheuristic Optimization of Surge Protection Device in an Urban Water Distribution Network

This study investigates the optimal placement of a surge tank to mitigate pressure fluctuations induced by water hammer in a complex, real-world water distribution network (WDN). A transient-flow numerical model was developed using the Method of Characteristics (MOC) integrated with surge tank theory, applied to a simplified and skeletonized representation of the target network. To determine the most effective installation site, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) was employed across 32 candidate nodes. Transient events were simulated through valve closure and reopening operations at the terminal nodes of the network. The results indicate that Node 41 is the optimal location for minimizing head fluctuations. Specifically, the maximum head fluctuation was reduced from 64.32 m in the unprotected system to 51.79 m with the surge tank at Node 41, representing a 19.48% improvement in hydraulic stability. These findings emphasize the critical role of strategic surge tank positioning and provide a robust technical framework for the design and operation of surge protection systems in complex WDNs.