Modelagem e simulação hidráulica do sistema de abastecimento de água com uso de tecnologia GIS e EPANET: estudo de caso do município de Piaçabuçu

Abstract

One of the bottlenecks in Brazil, regarding water resources, is its irregular water distribution. The Northeast holds 3.3% of water for approximately 27.8% of the population. In other words, there is a disparity in distribution, making it necessary to properly manage these resources in different regions. The municipality trained for this study obtained an average loss rate in water distribution of 75.86%, a value well above the Brazilian average and outside the expected values. Thus, based on the reality described, the study of this work analyzed the water supply system of Piaçabuçu in order to identify deficiencies in the supply and propose improvements. The modeling of the system was performed with data provided by the Sanitation Company of Alagoas (CASAL), using the QGIS and EPANET tools, followed by simulations in EPANET. The hydraulic model was developed to evaluate the tension and other parameters recommended by NBR 12218:2017. The simulations performed are demanding, especially during peak consumption times, with negative pressure in topographically elevated areas or areas that prevent adequate supply. The results confirm deficiencies in the network that make it difficult to fully serve the local population. Given the negative pressures and pressure losses, the study suggests checking and adapting sets of motor pumps, increasing the diameter of the main pipes. Although the current model presents a detailed view of the network, the study highlights the need for a specific location of the model and the collection of specific data for it. The adoption of these improvements can help to provide a more efficient and continuous water supply in the municipality of Piaçabuçu.