Experimental characterization of a self-powered control system for a real-time management of water distribution networks

Water distribution networks (WDN) are going towards more sophisticated management strategies to save water and energy and to improve users’ service. The paper investigates experimentally the potentiality of a hydraulic device prototype that integrates the control ability of common pressure reducing valves with the energy recovery capability. The recovered energy is used to self-power the system for real-time monitoring and remote control, creating a useful tool to enhance water distribution networks management. The paper presents and discusses the experimental tests performed for a 2-inches prototype characterization. Tests reveal a maximum flow coefficient of 39 m3/h and a minimum required head of 4 m with 3 l/s. Because of the novelty of the device a procedure to verify the applicability of the system starting from working conditions has been set up. In the end the procedure is applied to the first on field test in a real WDN.