Multi-criterion design optimization of contamination detection sensors in water distribution systems

Entry of contaminants in water distribution systems intentionally or by accidental is threat for human health. One of the effective and efficient methods to manage this contamination is to place contaminant detection sensors in water distribution systems (WDSs). The purpose of this work is to emphasize on the importance of both inspection and investigation of water distribution systems against the contamination entrance. Therefore, simulation-optimization model presented to determine the optimal number and the optimal location of contaminant detection sensors using multi-objective version of Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA). Furthermore, the performance of developed WOA-based model is compared with two well-known algorithms. The application of the model to a large-scale WDS verifies that the proposed model is efficient and reliable. Based on numerical experiments, the developed WOA-based model proved to be competitive compared to other algorithms.