Dynamic Programming Optimization of Water‐Treatment‐Plant Design

Abstract

A mathematical model incorporating the performance relationships and cost functions for the component units of a conventional water‐treatment system (viz rapid mix, clariflocculator, and rapid sand filters) was developed. An algorithm using dynamic programming is described for functional and minimal‐cost design of the system. An analysis of the stability of optimal design and its sensitivity with respect to some system parameters (viz input characteristics, interest rate and construction and power costs) is also incorporated specifically with respect to a case study.