Author(s): Panagiotis Dimas; Nikos Pelekanos; Georgios Moraitis; Archontia Lykou; Spyridon Tsattalios; George Karavokiros; Christodoulos Pantazis; Panagiotis Kossieris; Andreas Efstratiadis; Christos Makropoulos
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Asset management; Life-cycle cost; Pipe replacement; Resilience; Water distribution network
Abstract: This paper presents a methodological framework for optimising pipe replacement in urban water distribution networks (WDNs). The approach combines resilience-based network analysis, historical failure records, spatial clustering and life-cycle cost (LCC) optimisation within a decision support environment. Graph-theoretic indicators of topological importance are merged with failure data to produce a composite vulnerability index, while spatial autocorrelation methods highlight clusters of recurring bursts and increased topological significance. LCC optimisation then determines cost-effective replacement horizons, smoothing annual investments under budget constraints. The outcomes are consolidated into contract-ready groups of continuous pipes, enabling direct translation into renewal schedules. A pilot application showed the framework's ability to identify critical mains, optimise intervention timing and improve cost-effectiveness compared with traditional age-based strategies.
Year: 2026