EPANET Step-by-Step Case Study: Tank vs Pump System | Real Network Simulation

This video presents a complete EPANET-based water distribution system case study, starting from a basic gravity-driven network and progressing toward advanced system modification using pumps and demand pattern analysis. The case study begins with the development of a base system (tank-only configuration), where a storage tank at elevated height supplies water through gravity. The network is constructed step-by-step by defining junctions, pipes, elevations, pipe lengths, and diameters. The simulation is then executed to evaluate hydraulic parameters such as pressure distribution, flow rates, and velocity across the network. In the first case, results show that the system operates efficiently under gravity, maintaining stable pressure across most nodes. This serves as the baseline model for further analysis. In the second case, the tank elevation is deliberately reduced to simulate a realistic engineering problem. This leads to pressure drops, negative pressure zones, and system instability, highlighting common issues in water distribution networks. To resolve this, a pump is introduced into the system, and a pump curve is defined based on flow and head conditions. The simulation is re-run to analyze how the pump compensates for pressure loss and restores system performance. The video also demonstrates: How to define pipe characteristics and network topology Interpretation of tabular and graphical simulation results Creation and application of demand patterns for time-based analysis Use of EPANET tools for object selection, visualization, and property editing Practical understanding of system behavior under different operating conditions By the end of this case study, viewers will clearly understand how to: Build a water distribution network in EPANET Diagnose pressure-related issues Apply engineering solutions using pumps Perform extended period simulations with demand variation This is not just a software walkthrough—it is a practical engineering analysis of real-world water distribution problems, making it highly useful for students, researchers, and professionals in environmental and civil engineering. ⚡ Hashtags (Don’t overdo nonsense ones) #EPANET #WaterDistribution #HydraulicModeling #CivilEngineering #EnvironmentalEngineering #WaterSupply #PumpDesign #Hydraulics #EngineeringSimulation #WaterNetwork #EPANETTutorial