Elements & Design Principles of Water Supply Systems

Discover the best practices for the design, planning and analysis of various water supply systems. Dive into the essential elements and design principles in this online course curated by Dr. Karim, P.E., M.ASCE. The broad objectives underlying any water supply system are:

• To supply safe and wholesome water to consumers.
• To supply water in adequate quantity.
• To make water easily available to consumers so as to encourage personal and household cleanliness.

Course Outline

This course will start off with an overview of the two primary types of water sources and the suitability of surface and ground water with regards to quantity AND quality We'll then discuss the essential components and inter-workings of water supply collection systems designed to convey water from a source to the treatment system. Within this discussion, we'll cover the best practices for design and on-site implementation (e.g. where to locate, considerations for intake and transmission mains, etc.). We'll then jump into treatment plants in terms of their functionality and treatment methodologies/ approaches (i.e. screening, sedimentation, treatment with chemicals, filtration through sand beds, and disinfection to kill microorganisms). The different classifications of distribution plants (e.g. gravity systems vs. systems with direct pumping vs. systems with pumping and storage, aka duel systems) and methods of supply are also covered. Additionally, this discussion will cover pressure requirements for distribution pipes, as well as the main components and different types of reservoirs. We'll also examine the mathematical equations involved in calculating the most economic dimension of a cylindrical reservoir or water supply tank. The basic requirements, 4 primary elements and design principles of distribution pipe systems is also outlined in order to help you obtain maximum system strength and corrosion resistance. This description also walks through the advantages and disadvantages of different distribution system layouts (e.g. dead end systems, grid iron systems, circle or "ring" systems and radial systems) and designs of distribution systems layouts/designs. We'll then jump into the factors causing loss of pressure head and the essential appurtenances in distribution systems. This PDH engineering course concludes with a discussion of the best practices for the analysis and planning of water supply systems.

Learning Objectives

At the successful conclusion of this course, you’ll be able to:

• Define a public water system and the components of wholesome water and potable water.
• Identify the basic elements of a water supply system.
• Determine the main sources of water supply.
• Differentiate a water collection system, water treatment system and distribution system.
• Identify pressure requirements for various stages of water use.
• Analyze the design the overhead storage tanks.