A program package for interactive design of optimal pipe networks for any climatic region in Canada

• Published in: Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering
• Main Authors: James, William, Robinson, Mark A.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: French
• Published: Canadian Science Publishing 1979
• Subjects: General Environmental Science; Civil and Structural Engineering; Northwest Territories; Canada
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/l79-048; http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.1139/l79-048

The program package presented in this paper facilitates the computer-aided design of least-cost pipe distribution networks for any region in Canada. The design algorithms function in an interactive, conversational mode. Three algorithms—for analysing pressure and flow in networks, for computing the 'best' diameter of each pipe in the network, and for computing the best sizes of devices and materials to protect the pipes against freezing—were combined. Here 'best' is taken to be the least equivalent average annual cost.The pipe distribution network may include a wide variety of pipeline components and environmental constraints. The variables that determine the cost of pipe distribution networks in the extreme climatic regions of Canada are identified and their interaction for the many combinations of environmental, economic, and technological constraints are described.The computer program package was employed in the design of a minimum-cost distribution system for Broughton Island, Northwest Territories. The performance of the package indicated that it could be reliable, easy to use, and competitive in design cost.The package is locally accessible through a national computer network to dial-up terminals in or near most cities in North America.