Thesis (MScEng)--University of Stellenbosch, 2004. / ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Presented here is an Eulerian scheme for solving the unsteady pipe-flow equations. It is called the Characteristic Dissipative Petrov-Galerkin finite element algorithm. It is based on Hicks and Steffler's open-channel finite element algorithm [5]. The algorithm features a highly selective dissipative interface, which damps out spurious oscillations in the pressure field while leaving the rest of the field almost unaffected. The dissipative interface is obtained through upwinding of the test shape functions, which is controlled by the characteristic directions of the flow field at a node. The algorithm can be applied to variable grids, since the dissipative interface is locally controlled. The algorithm was applied to waterhammer problems, which included reservoir, deadend, valve and pump boundary conditions. Satisfactory results were obtained using a simple one-dimensional element with linear shape functions. / AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: 'n Euleriese skema word hier beskryf om die onbestendige pypvloei differensiaal vergelykings op te los. Dit word die Karakteristieke Dissiperende Petrov-Galerkin eindige element algoritme genoem. Die algoritme is gebaseer op Hicks en Steffler se oop-kanaal eindige element algoritme [5]. In hierdie algoritme word onrealistiese ossilasies in die drukveld selektief gedissipeer, sonder om die res van die veld te beinvloed. Die dissiperende koppelvlak word verkry deur stroomop weegfunksies, wat beheer word deur die karakteristieke rigtings in die vloeiveld, by 'n node. Die algoritme kan dus gebruik word op veranderbare roosters, omdat die dissiperende koppelvlak lokaal beheer word. Die algoritme was toegepas op waterslag probleme waarvan die grenskondisies reservoirs, entpunte, kleppe en pompe ingesluit het. Bevredigende resultate was verkry vir hierdie probleme, al was die geimplementeerde element een-dimensioneel met lineere vormfunksies.

Undertaken in conjunction with JUMP (Joint Universities Masters Programme in Hydrology and Water Resources). Bibliography: leaves 76-83. Establishes a methodology using genetic algorithms to find the optimum operating policy for variable speed pumps in a water supply network over a period of 24 hours.

A theoretical analysis was made of the reflected and transmitted waves which were produced when a water-hammer pressure wave encountered a tee in the pipeline. The analysis included the fact that a hydraulic loss existed across the tee. Relationships were developed for determining the magnitude of the reflected and the transmitted waves. However, these relationships were only suitable for the case of instantaneous valve closure, due to the relative magnitudes of the terms involved. An experimental analysis was made in order to verify the theoretical relationships. However, due to malfunctions of the equipment and the ill designed pipeline configuration, very little of the information that was desired could be obtained. Hence, the theoretical analysis could not be verified. / Master of Science