Optimal Layout and Sizing of Pipe Distribution Network Considering Steiner Points

The pipe distribution networks (PDNs) are gaining importance over conventional canal system of trasporting irrigation water due to their efficiency in water use and adaptability with the modern system of irrigation such as drip and sprinkers. The other significant advantage with PDN is that no acquisition of land is necessary as pipes are laid underground. The underground pipes on the open fields give an opportunity to have a cross-country layout. Further, instead of connecting nodal points directly, some additional nodes (Stenier Points) can be considered to minimize the cost. A new iterative methodology is proposed in this study. The iterative process starts with initial Steiner point layout obtained using GEO STEINER software, and optimized for pipe sizes using linear programming. The layout and pipe sizes are successively corrected until no further reduction in cost is observed. The method is applied to a few example networks and the results are compared to show the advantage of the proposed methodology.