**Modelling of Critical Water Quality Indicators for Water Treatment Plant**

#### Adam Rak

*Opole University of Technology, Opole, Poland* 

#### **1. Introduction**

A technology system water treatment requires pre-determined information on critical quality indicators for the water. A neural networks can be designed to assess this. Use of an artificial neural networks [ANN] to analyse unit and technology processes within water management, treatment and distribution led to consideration of the possibilities of using an ANN for forecasting water quality and creating a model which would permit this. Siwoń et al. (2008) examined the results of experiments carried out using an ANN and indicated that the first use of an ANN in modelling and forecasting water system operation occurred in the 1990s. A lot of work was done to assess whether the ANN might be useful in modelling and forecasting the distribution as well as the sale and production of water. A

similar analysis was carried out by Bardossy and his colleagues (2009). Additionally, a Variable Input Spread Inference Training [VISIT] programme was created, which allowed for the automatic examination of the ANN model being suggested for implementation.

Artificial neural networks were also used to establish the essential doses of chloride needed within large water systems and to forecast the contamination amount of left over chloride. Koo et al. (2008) examined the possibility of using an ANN to forecast the amount of chloride remaining in water pipes. A model was then created. It analysed five scenarios regarding the use of chloride subject to a dose of chloride being put into the water system. An established model indicated the amount of chloride to put into a water system, subject to the water temperature and the amount of water being put through the system, so that the amount of chloride remaining does not exceed the allowed dose. The Pearson correlation coefficient, *R,* between the examined and observed data was calculated; its value for the model being analysed was *R* = 0.959.

An ANN has recently been introduced for the operation of a water system. It has been widely discussed not only in foreign literature (Camarinha-Matos & Martinelli, 1998; Zhou et al., 2000, 2002), but local works as well. For example, Sroczan and Urbaniak (2004) as well as Zimoch and Kłos (2003) suggest using an ANN to monitor, steer and operate water supply systems, and for water protection. Dawidowicz (2005) carried out a number of numerical tests which allowed verification of the idea of using an ANN in assessing the 'Diametre Nominal' (DN) of the water pipes and for taking any hydraulic measurements. Licznar and Łomotowski (2004) obtained very good results in forecasting the daily amount of water distributed in a large scale system of water pipes using various ANN technologies.

Modelling of Critical Water Quality Indicators for Water Treatment Plant 331

F1A –Czerwonka stream catchment area; F1B –Sośniak stream catchment area

2. Construction of water distribution system at Podgórna River.

1. Extraction construction of the reservoir including the water catchment area.

Fig. 1. Schematic of the water distribution of the 'Sosnówka' reservoir:

F2 – Podgórna River catchment area.

4. Initial reservoir including a pumping station.

Photo 1. Retention reservoir "Sosnówka"

3. Transfer canal.

Deveughèle and Do-Quang (2005) supplied the results of using an ANN to forecast the use of coagulant in a surface water treatment process. A model was created which enabled the optimal dose of coagulant to be established subject to the parameters of the raw water. The model's prototype was fully implemented in a French water treatment plant. It enabled the amount of coagulant being used to be reduced by approximately 10%. Cougnaud et al. (2005) used an ANN to forecast the absorption capacity of active carbon subject to the concentration of pesticides in the water. It was noted that the operating parameters – contamination, concentration and pace of filtration – had an effect on the efficacy of reducing contamination. The ANN model established the relationship between the features of active carbon and the adsorption of pesticides. There was a mutual relationship noted between the concentration of pesticides, pace and filtration time. It was a strong linear relationship; the coefficient of determination, R2, being 0.985. An ANN was also used to assess the maximum level of water contamination. Brion and Lingireddy (2003) indicated that an ANN could be useful when examining the micro-biological changes of water. The ANN provided the ability to examine the mutual relationships between large numbers of parameters. It allowed this information on the predicted micro-biological features of the water to be supplied to the system operator. Using an ANN for modelling allowed the highest level of micro-biological water contamination to be assessed with 90% accuracy. Gavin et al. (2003) used an ANN to model water supply systems. The networks were used to predict the salinity of rivers in South Australia. The salinity was forecast 14 days in advance using a linear model. Strugholtz et al. (2009) used an ANN to examine a water treatment process as a subject for both raw water quality and technology process. It established the optimal technology process and predicted its course. That was one stage of the examination. The other stage developed a model to optimise operational costs. The ANN was used to set the parameters of the filtration and to optimise the doses of the reactants; the result was a lowering of the costs by 15%.

These various examinations and analyses have led to the conclusion that ANN models are as good as statistical ones.

#### **2. Experimental**

#### **2.1 The site**

The Sosnówka reservoir was constructed in the 1990s to supply water to the municipality of Jelenia Góra. It supplies raw water to a local water treatment plant. Sosnówka reservoir retains water from the catchment areas of the Czerwonka and Sośniak streams and the Sosnówka tributary. The total catchment area is 15.3 km2.

The flow of the Czerwonka stream within the reservoir's section, QSN, is 0.038 m3·s-1, with the average flow, Qaver, being 0.192 m3·s-1. The Czerwonka stream catchment area is 5.5 km2 and it is separated from the Sośniak stream by the reservoir catchment area. It indirectly supplies water to the object under study (Figure 1).

The total capacity of the reservoir is 15.4 million m3 and it has a maximum surface area of 178 ha. The depth at the lower dam is 13.5 m and the total average depth is 8.15 m. The amount of water from the reservoir used for consumption is 11 million m3 ( Photo 1). It is assumed that at least 70% of the total amount of water required can be supplied from the Podgórna river catchment area to the reservoir in the even that the Sosnówka reservoir water is completely used (Photo 2). So the Podgórna River is the main source of water for the reservoir (Rak, 2008).

F1A –Czerwonka stream catchment area; F1B –Sośniak stream catchment area F2 – Podgórna River catchment area.


330 Cutting Edge Research in New Technologies

Deveughèle and Do-Quang (2005) supplied the results of using an ANN to forecast the use of coagulant in a surface water treatment process. A model was created which enabled the optimal dose of coagulant to be established subject to the parameters of the raw water. The model's prototype was fully implemented in a French water treatment plant. It enabled the amount of coagulant being used to be reduced by approximately 10%. Cougnaud et al. (2005) used an ANN to forecast the absorption capacity of active carbon subject to the concentration of pesticides in the water. It was noted that the operating parameters – contamination, concentration and pace of filtration – had an effect on the efficacy of reducing contamination. The ANN model established the relationship between the features of active carbon and the adsorption of pesticides. There was a mutual relationship noted between the concentration of pesticides, pace and filtration time. It was a strong linear relationship; the coefficient of determination, R2, being 0.985. An ANN was also used to assess the maximum level of water contamination. Brion and Lingireddy (2003) indicated that an ANN could be useful when examining the micro-biological changes of water. The ANN provided the ability to examine the mutual relationships between large numbers of parameters. It allowed this information on the predicted micro-biological features of the water to be supplied to the system operator. Using an ANN for modelling allowed the highest level of micro-biological water contamination to be assessed with 90% accuracy. Gavin et al. (2003) used an ANN to model water supply systems. The networks were used to predict the salinity of rivers in South Australia. The salinity was forecast 14 days in advance using a linear model. Strugholtz et al. (2009) used an ANN to examine a water treatment process as a subject for both raw water quality and technology process. It established the optimal technology process and predicted its course. That was one stage of the examination. The other stage developed a model to optimise operational costs. The ANN was used to set the parameters of the filtration and to optimise the doses of the reactants; the result was a

These various examinations and analyses have led to the conclusion that ANN models are

The Sosnówka reservoir was constructed in the 1990s to supply water to the municipality of Jelenia Góra. It supplies raw water to a local water treatment plant. Sosnówka reservoir retains water from the catchment areas of the Czerwonka and Sośniak streams and the

The flow of the Czerwonka stream within the reservoir's section, QSN, is 0.038 m3·s-1, with the average flow, Qaver, being 0.192 m3·s-1. The Czerwonka stream catchment area is 5.5 km2 and it is separated from the Sośniak stream by the reservoir catchment area. It indirectly

The total capacity of the reservoir is 15.4 million m3 and it has a maximum surface area of 178 ha. The depth at the lower dam is 13.5 m and the total average depth is 8.15 m. The amount of water from the reservoir used for consumption is 11 million m3 ( Photo 1). It is assumed that at least 70% of the total amount of water required can be supplied from the Podgórna river catchment area to the reservoir in the even that the Sosnówka reservoir water is completely used (Photo 2). So the Podgórna River is the main source of water for

Sosnówka tributary. The total catchment area is 15.3 km2.

supplies water to the object under study (Figure 1).

lowering of the costs by 15%.

as good as statistical ones.

the reservoir (Rak, 2008).

**2. Experimental** 

**2.1 The site** 

4. Initial reservoir including a pumping station.

Fig. 1. Schematic of the water distribution of the 'Sosnówka' reservoir:

Photo 1. Retention reservoir "Sosnówka"

Modelling of Critical Water Quality Indicators for Water Treatment Plant 333

The unit processes available within the technology system are presented in Table 1.

Sieving with a 1 mm by 1 mm sieve **+ + + + + +**  Pre-ozonation **+ + + + + +** 

Correction of pH **+ + +**  Anthracite and sand deposit filtration **+ + + + + +**  Derivative ozonation **+ + + + +**  Active carbon deposit filtration **+ + + + + +**  Final correction of water pH **+ + + + +**  Disinfection **+ + + + + +**  W1, W1A, W1B, W2, W2A and W3 – different possible sequences or systems of unit processes used for

The results of the technology examinations conducted during the first operating period of the water treatment plant resulted in the decision to opt for the W2 sequence. This included such unit processes as sieving, pre-ozonation, accelerating filtration on anthracite and sand deposits, derivative ozonation, sorption on active carbon, final correction of water quality and disinfection. When the pH value was low, technology system W3 was implemented as

During the first period of operation of the treatment plant, the water taken from the reservoir was analysed to establish the characteristics of the raw water. Table 2 displays the

typical minimum and maximum values of the contamination factors of this water.

W1 W1A W1B W2 W2A W3

Fig. 2. The technology of the water treatment process

Coagulation with aluminium

treatment of the water

**3. Results** 

Unit processes Technology system

sulphate **+ + +**  Flocculation **+ + +** 

Table 1. The separate unit processes of the technology system

this included correction of the pH of the water.

Photo 2. Podgórna River

In the reservoir area there were few anthropogenic contamination sources. The area is a mix of woods and meadows, the soil comprises mountain peat deposits (Institute of Environmental Protection Wrocław [IMGW], 1986). Factors which have a positive influence on changes in reservoir water quality include the wooded character of the terrain, a low annual water exchange rate and an absence of indirect contamination sources. The Schindler index value of 1.39 ranks the reservoir as being in the first category regarding susceptibility to degradation. However, given the increasing amount of water being taken for consumption purposes, more water is being supplied from the Podgórna River. The water factors have change and the Schindler index value has risen to 4.62. This has resulted in the reservoir being downgraded regarding susceptibility to degradation to the second category.

#### **2.2 Methodology**

Some parameters of the raw and treated waters at the treatment plant are automatically monitored. These include the temperature, pH, muddiness, colour and conductivity. Between November 2007 and October 2008, the first operational phase of the water treatment plant, certain physical and chemical examinations were conducted every few days. These tests included measuring the water temperature, turbidity, colour, pH, general hardness, alkalinity, iron, manganese, chlorides, ammonium and nitrates levels, oxidisability, dissolved oxygen content, conductivity and phosphates. The technology system allowed examination of such unit processes as sieving, pre-ozonation, coagulation, correction of pH, flocculation, accelerating anthracite and sand deposit filtration, derivative ozonation, sorption on active carbon, final correction of pH and hardness as well as disinfection of the treated water (see Figure 2).

The technology system is designed to allow different combinations of the various unit processes depending on the quality of the water.

Fig. 2. The technology of the water treatment process


W1, W1A, W1B, W2, W2A and W3 – different possible sequences or systems of unit processes used for treatment of the water

Table 1. The separate unit processes of the technology system

The results of the technology examinations conducted during the first operating period of the water treatment plant resulted in the decision to opt for the W2 sequence. This included such unit processes as sieving, pre-ozonation, accelerating filtration on anthracite and sand deposits, derivative ozonation, sorption on active carbon, final correction of water quality and disinfection. When the pH value was low, technology system W3 was implemented as this included correction of the pH of the water.

#### **3. Results**

332 Cutting Edge Research in New Technologies

In the reservoir area there were few anthropogenic contamination sources. The area is a mix of woods and meadows, the soil comprises mountain peat deposits (Institute of Environmental Protection Wrocław [IMGW], 1986). Factors which have a positive influence on changes in reservoir water quality include the wooded character of the terrain, a low annual water exchange rate and an absence of indirect contamination sources. The Schindler index value of 1.39 ranks the reservoir as being in the first category regarding susceptibility to degradation. However, given the increasing amount of water being taken for consumption purposes, more water is being supplied from the Podgórna River. The water factors have change and the Schindler index value has risen to 4.62. This has resulted in the reservoir being downgraded regarding susceptibility to degradation to the second category.

Some parameters of the raw and treated waters at the treatment plant are automatically monitored. These include the temperature, pH, muddiness, colour and conductivity. Between November 2007 and October 2008, the first operational phase of the water treatment plant, certain physical and chemical examinations were conducted every few days. These tests included measuring the water temperature, turbidity, colour, pH, general hardness, alkalinity, iron, manganese, chlorides, ammonium and nitrates levels, oxidisability, dissolved oxygen content, conductivity and phosphates. The technology system allowed examination of such unit processes as sieving, pre-ozonation, coagulation, correction of pH, flocculation, accelerating anthracite and sand deposit filtration, derivative ozonation, sorption on active carbon, final correction of pH and hardness as well as

The technology system is designed to allow different combinations of the various unit

Photo 2. Podgórna River

**2.2 Methodology** 

disinfection of the treated water (see Figure 2).

processes depending on the quality of the water.

During the first period of operation of the treatment plant, the water taken from the reservoir was analysed to establish the characteristics of the raw water. Table 2 displays the typical minimum and maximum values of the contamination factors of this water.

Modelling of Critical Water Quality Indicators for Water Treatment Plant 335

the pH value of the water was greater than 8.85 while the water temperature was quite low (between 6oC and 7oC). The high pH value required a technology process without a pH correction stage in it. In May when the temperature increased to 15oC, weather conditions stabilised, and the pH level of the raw water was considerably reduced. However, it was still sufficiently high that a technology system without a pH correction stage could be used. After each of the unit processes within the water treatment process it was noted that there were changes in the pH of the water. With every test carried out the pH changed. For example, after the pre-ozonation process the pH was increased by about 10%. The filtration processes, in contrast, decreased the pH to between 6.55 and 6.90. Disinfection with sodium

hypochlorite increased the pH slightly – to 7.05 (see Figure 3).

Fig. 3. Changes in the pH of the water at various water treatment processes

using fixed doses of MgCl2 and Na2CO3 – 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0 mg·dm-3.

Changes in pH, the low general hardness of the water and its alkalinity during the treatment process were analysed to assess the stability and aggressive character of the treated water. The pH at saturation (pHS) and the Langelier (IL) and Rezner (IR) indices were determined. The values of the water temperature, pH, pHS, IL and IR, are shown in Figure 4. It is clear that both the raw and the treated water are aggressive in character in the W2A technology system. These indicators changed their values, particularly in May when the temperature increased from 8oC to 15oC. However, until May when the water temperature was between 4oC and 8oC, there was little increase in the aggressiveness of the character of the treated water compared with that of the raw water. Moreover, with higher temperatures and increasing pH values (up to pH = 8.4), the treated water became unstable and more aggressive in character. At that time the IL index was negative (- 1.6), while the IR index value was 10.5. The results of the examinations were the basis for implementing a water stabilization process by dosing the treated water with magnesium chloride and sodium carbonate before it was disinfected. The tests in the W2 technology system were carried out


Smin – minimum value of the parameter for the Sosnówka reservoir,

Smax – maximum value of the parameter for the Sosnówka reservoir,

Saver – average value of 2005-2006 samples of the parameter for the Sosnówka reservoir.

Table 2. Typical values of chosen water quality indicators during initial period of operation

During the first period of operation of the plant, given the good quality of the water being extracted, the technology tests that were carried out within the technology system included sieving, pre-ozonation, accelerating filtration on anthracite and sand filters, derivative ozonation and sorption on active carbon (W2A – excluding final correction of the water pH). During the second period, final correction of water quality was included in the technology system; the W2 system was applied. The flow rate of the water during treatment was between 172 m3·h-1 and 202 m3·h-1 and the speed of filtration on the anthracite and sand filters and with the active carbon was between 4.9 m3·h-1and 5.7 m3·h-1. Certain amounts of ozone and other substances were applied within the technology system. These included:


By examining both the raw and the treated water it was possible to establish the levels of reduction of the indicators being monitored for a particular water temperature and the dose of ozone given relative to the raw water colour. Following the W2 technology system, the water colour was reduced from 65% to 98% at water temperatures between 4oC and 15oC. The average colour reduction level was 80%. The relationship between water colour and the temperature of the treated water was noted. When the temperature was lower, there was a 60% reduction in the water colour. However, when the temperature was 6oC the reduction in water colour increased to 80%. Further reduction in water colour was noticed at temperatures higher than 14oC. The possibility of constant monitoring allowed both the water temperature and pH to be analysed in week long cycles. In spring time, when the level of water in the reservoir was high, the pH value of the water was quite high. In April

Water temperature oC 3 15 9.2 1.620 Turbidity mgSiO2·dm-3 0.57 3.81 1.56 1.052 Colour mgPt·dm-3 5 14.9 8.21 2.791 pH pH 7.2 8.4 7.63 0.366 General hardness mval·dm-3 0.62 1.03 0.85 0.072 Nitrate nitrogen mgN-NO3·dm-3 2 5 2.44 1.300 Chlorides mgCl·dm-3 4 6.8 4.95 1.321 Oxidability mgO2·dm-3 1.0 5.22 3.458 1.532 Conductivity µs·cm-1 98.28 122.50 110.88 6.692 Dissolved oxygen mgO2·dm-3 9.4 12.4 11.18 1.172 Fe mgFe·dm-3 0.05 0.136 0.066 0.027 Mn mgMn·dm-3 0.012 0.036 0.021 0.007

Smin – minimum value of the parameter for the Sosnówka reservoir, Smax – maximum value of the parameter for the Sosnówka reservoir,

Saver – average value of 2005-2006 samples of the parameter for the Sosnówka reservoir.



By examining both the raw and the treated water it was possible to establish the levels of reduction of the indicators being monitored for a particular water temperature and the dose of ozone given relative to the raw water colour. Following the W2 technology system, the water colour was reduced from 65% to 98% at water temperatures between 4oC and 15oC. The average colour reduction level was 80%. The relationship between water colour and the temperature of the treated water was noted. When the temperature was lower, there was a 60% reduction in the water colour. However, when the temperature was 6oC the reduction in water colour increased to 80%. Further reduction in water colour was noticed at temperatures higher than 14oC. The possibility of constant monitoring allowed both the water temperature and pH to be analysed in week long cycles. In spring time, when the level of water in the reservoir was high, the pH value of the water was quite high. In April

Table 2. Typical values of chosen water quality indicators during initial period of operation During the first period of operation of the plant, given the good quality of the water being extracted, the technology tests that were carried out within the technology system included sieving, pre-ozonation, accelerating filtration on anthracite and sand filters, derivative ozonation and sorption on active carbon (W2A – excluding final correction of the water pH). During the second period, final correction of water quality was included in the technology system; the W2 system was applied. The flow rate of the water during treatment was between 172 m3·h-1 and 202 m3·h-1 and the speed of filtration on the anthracite and sand filters and with the active carbon was between 4.9 m3·h-1and 5.7 m3·h-1. Certain amounts of ozone and other substances were applied within the technology system. These included:

Sosnówka reservoir

Smin Smax Saver

Standard deviation(σ)

Water quality

indicators Unit

hypochlorite) was added.

the pH value of the water was greater than 8.85 while the water temperature was quite low (between 6oC and 7oC). The high pH value required a technology process without a pH correction stage in it. In May when the temperature increased to 15oC, weather conditions stabilised, and the pH level of the raw water was considerably reduced. However, it was still sufficiently high that a technology system without a pH correction stage could be used. After each of the unit processes within the water treatment process it was noted that there were changes in the pH of the water. With every test carried out the pH changed. For example, after the pre-ozonation process the pH was increased by about 10%. The filtration processes, in contrast, decreased the pH to between 6.55 and 6.90. Disinfection with sodium hypochlorite increased the pH slightly – to 7.05 (see Figure 3).

Fig. 3. Changes in the pH of the water at various water treatment processes

Changes in pH, the low general hardness of the water and its alkalinity during the treatment process were analysed to assess the stability and aggressive character of the treated water. The pH at saturation (pHS) and the Langelier (IL) and Rezner (IR) indices were determined. The values of the water temperature, pH, pHS, IL and IR, are shown in Figure 4. It is clear that both the raw and the treated water are aggressive in character in the W2A technology system. These indicators changed their values, particularly in May when the temperature increased from 8oC to 15oC. However, until May when the water temperature was between 4oC and 8oC, there was little increase in the aggressiveness of the character of the treated water compared with that of the raw water. Moreover, with higher temperatures and increasing pH values (up to pH = 8.4), the treated water became unstable and more aggressive in character. At that time the IL index was negative (- 1.6), while the IR index value was 10.5. The results of the examinations were the basis for implementing a water stabilization process by dosing the treated water with magnesium chloride and sodium carbonate before it was disinfected. The tests in the W2 technology system were carried out using fixed doses of MgCl2 and Na2CO3 – 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0 mg·dm-3.

Modelling of Critical Water Quality Indicators for Water Treatment Plant 337

The research identified limit values for the colour and pH of the raw water where there is a possible choice of treatment process. Those areas are shown in Figure 5. The nomogram governs the selection of the appropriate technology system subject to the colour and pH value of the reservoir water. Each of technology systems, W1, W2 and W3, can be modified with the inclusion of the derivative ozonation process, subject to water temperature. In winter time when the temperature drops to between 9oC and 12oC, derivative ozonation

The analysis led to the conclusion that the critical indicators that have an effect on the selection of the technology system to apply are the water colour, pH and temperature. Other contamination indicators are not relevant to the choice of the technology system of water treatment processes. The study indicated that both the raw and treated water were aggressive and unstable in character. Therefore, each of the technology systems includes

From a water management and distribution points of view, the quality of the water supplied to recipients is as important as the operational costs of the system. The costs depend on the technology system being used within the water treatment process. The technology system selected will generate operational costs subject to certain quality parameters of the raw water and the length of time that they are prevalent. These costs depend on the duration of the water treatment process within the appointed technology system. Therefore, it is important that the water treatment plant's operator be supplied with a prognosis of the contaminants of the raw water, as these determine the choice of technology system to implement. This forecast is critical for the water treatment plant under consideration. Pawełek and Bergel (2008) suggested a methodology to establish the duration time of a critical indicator. This led to the development of a readiness indicator, *Kg*, for critical water

*i*

(1)

*T t*

*T*

where T is the examination time. For operational cost purposes this is taken to be 365, *<sup>i</sup> <sup>t</sup>* is the total time for any limit values of the critical indicators designated for a certain type of

Based on equation (1), readiness indicators were calculated for the critical indicators of water colour, pH and water temperature. These are shown in Figures 6, 7 and 8. The total duration time of the limit values was calculated for each of the critical indicators as a curve

The values for the readiness indicator for pH indicate that technology systems W2 and W3 (Figure 6) can be used for 302 days a year. For the rest of the year, the W1 technology system should be applied as coagulation needs to be implemented. Both W2 and W3 technology systems can be modified with the use of the pH correction. Figure 7 shows that the water pH correction needs to be implemented for 232 days per annum (63%). All technology systems (W1, W2 and W3) can be modified subject to the temperature of the water being treated. Figure 8 shows that the longest that the water treatment process W1A (excluding

*g*

*K*

does not have to be implemented.

processes which make the water stable and harder.

quality indicators. This readiness indictor is defined as:

derivative ozonation) can be applied is 151 days a year.

**4. Discussion** 

a technology system.

function of time per examination year.

Fig. 4. Changes in pH, general hardness, and the pHS, IL, and IR indices of the water for various doses of MgCl2 and Na2CO

The results obtained (see Figure 4) show that the treated water is stabilized by increased doses of magnesium chloride and sodium carbonate. Using 0.75 mg·dm-3 of both magnesium chloride and sodium carbonate resulted in a general hardness level of 1.2 mval·dm-3. The IL index reached a value of -0.3 and the IR index reached a value of 8.3. However, both indices changed their values when the amounts of magnesium chloride and sodium carbonate added reached 1.0 mg·dm-3 becoming 0.1 for IL and 7.2 for IR.

Fig. 5. Nomogram for selecting the technology system subject to raw water colour and pH values

The research identified limit values for the colour and pH of the raw water where there is a possible choice of treatment process. Those areas are shown in Figure 5. The nomogram governs the selection of the appropriate technology system subject to the colour and pH value of the reservoir water. Each of technology systems, W1, W2 and W3, can be modified with the inclusion of the derivative ozonation process, subject to water temperature. In winter time when the temperature drops to between 9oC and 12oC, derivative ozonation does not have to be implemented.

#### **4. Discussion**

336 Cutting Edge Research in New Technologies

Fig. 4. Changes in pH, general hardness, and the pHS, IL, and IR indices of the water for

The results obtained (see Figure 4) show that the treated water is stabilized by increased doses of magnesium chloride and sodium carbonate. Using 0.75 mg·dm-3 of both magnesium chloride and sodium carbonate resulted in a general hardness level of 1.2 mval·dm-3. The IL index reached a value of -0.3 and the IR index reached a value of 8.3. However, both indices changed their values when the amounts of magnesium chloride and sodium carbonate

Fig. 5. Nomogram for selecting the technology system subject to raw water colour and pH

various doses of MgCl2 and Na2CO

values

added reached 1.0 mg·dm-3 becoming 0.1 for IL and 7.2 for IR.

The analysis led to the conclusion that the critical indicators that have an effect on the selection of the technology system to apply are the water colour, pH and temperature. Other contamination indicators are not relevant to the choice of the technology system of water treatment processes. The study indicated that both the raw and treated water were aggressive and unstable in character. Therefore, each of the technology systems includes processes which make the water stable and harder.

From a water management and distribution points of view, the quality of the water supplied to recipients is as important as the operational costs of the system. The costs depend on the technology system being used within the water treatment process. The technology system selected will generate operational costs subject to certain quality parameters of the raw water and the length of time that they are prevalent. These costs depend on the duration of the water treatment process within the appointed technology system. Therefore, it is important that the water treatment plant's operator be supplied with a prognosis of the contaminants of the raw water, as these determine the choice of technology system to implement. This forecast is critical for the water treatment plant under consideration. Pawełek and Bergel (2008) suggested a methodology to establish the duration time of a critical indicator. This led to the development of a readiness indicator, *Kg*, for critical water quality indicators. This readiness indictor is defined as:

$$K\_g = \frac{T - \sum t\_i}{T} \tag{1}$$

where T is the examination time. For operational cost purposes this is taken to be 365, *<sup>i</sup> <sup>t</sup>*

is the total time for any limit values of the critical indicators designated for a certain type of a technology system.

Based on equation (1), readiness indicators were calculated for the critical indicators of water colour, pH and water temperature. These are shown in Figures 6, 7 and 8. The total duration time of the limit values was calculated for each of the critical indicators as a curve function of time per examination year.

The values for the readiness indicator for pH indicate that technology systems W2 and W3 (Figure 6) can be used for 302 days a year. For the rest of the year, the W1 technology system should be applied as coagulation needs to be implemented. Both W2 and W3 technology systems can be modified with the use of the pH correction. Figure 7 shows that the water pH correction needs to be implemented for 232 days per annum (63%). All technology systems (W1, W2 and W3) can be modified subject to the temperature of the water being treated. Figure 8 shows that the longest that the water treatment process W1A (excluding derivative ozonation) can be applied is 151 days a year.

Modelling of Critical Water Quality Indicators for Water Treatment Plant 339

It is essential that the operator of the water treatment plant has a prediction of the water quality parameters which govern which type of technology system is set in motion. Short term prognoses of water quality can be used in the modelling of water management in various situations depending on water conditions, the ecological status of the inflow and the

Flexible Bayesian models (FBM) are the neural networks which were used to forecast the reservoir water quality indicators (Neal, 2000). A numerical analysis applied to a regression model in which the target variables, such as colour (S1), turbidity (S2), pH (S3) and water hardness (S4), are subject to input variables such as time (Z1), reservoir water level (Z2), daily precipitation amounts in the catchment area (Z3) and water temperature (Z4). Adjustments to the network were based on historic data gathered from assessments carried out for 365 days from November 2007 till 31 October 2008. Verification of the regression model was carried out using the same data. The parameters of the network were established at such levels as to accommodate the lowest values of the predicted errors. The parameters of the network architecture were set at values which allowed acquisition of the smallest values of the prediction errors by control of the rejection rates (value 0.5) of the chosen hyperparameters that make the network adjustment optimal. A numerical simulation was carried

There are two criteria used to set the final parameters of the neural network. The first is the root mean square error (RMSE). The other is the correlation (R) between the predicted indices and the observed ones. The correlation coefficient shows the strength of the linear relation between two variables. The coefficient of determination, R2, shows how well future

Figures 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 show the results of examinations carried out using of

out with 250 iterations after the first 20% of the burn-in steps were rejected.

Fig. 8. Readiness indicator for water temperature

amount of water taken out for consumption.

outcomes are likely to be predicted by the model.

ANN FMB.

The readiness indicators for water colour, pH and water temperature allow factors to be set to adjust the operational costs of the technology system appropriate to the critical values of indicators as given in the chart of Figure 5.

Fig. 6. Readiness indicator for water colour

Fig. 7. Readiness indicator for water pH

The readiness indicators for water colour, pH and water temperature allow factors to be set to adjust the operational costs of the technology system appropriate to the critical values of

indicators as given in the chart of Figure 5.

Fig. 6. Readiness indicator for water colour

Fig. 7. Readiness indicator for water pH

Fig. 8. Readiness indicator for water temperature

It is essential that the operator of the water treatment plant has a prediction of the water quality parameters which govern which type of technology system is set in motion. Short term prognoses of water quality can be used in the modelling of water management in various situations depending on water conditions, the ecological status of the inflow and the amount of water taken out for consumption.

Flexible Bayesian models (FBM) are the neural networks which were used to forecast the reservoir water quality indicators (Neal, 2000). A numerical analysis applied to a regression model in which the target variables, such as colour (S1), turbidity (S2), pH (S3) and water hardness (S4), are subject to input variables such as time (Z1), reservoir water level (Z2), daily precipitation amounts in the catchment area (Z3) and water temperature (Z4). Adjustments to the network were based on historic data gathered from assessments carried out for 365 days from November 2007 till 31 October 2008. Verification of the regression model was carried out using the same data. The parameters of the network were established at such levels as to accommodate the lowest values of the predicted errors. The parameters of the network architecture were set at values which allowed acquisition of the smallest values of the prediction errors by control of the rejection rates (value 0.5) of the chosen hyperparameters that make the network adjustment optimal. A numerical simulation was carried out with 250 iterations after the first 20% of the burn-in steps were rejected.

There are two criteria used to set the final parameters of the neural network. The first is the root mean square error (RMSE). The other is the correlation (R) between the predicted indices and the observed ones. The correlation coefficient shows the strength of the linear relation between two variables. The coefficient of determination, R2, shows how well future outcomes are likely to be predicted by the model.

Figures 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 show the results of examinations carried out using of ANN FMB.

Modelling of Critical Water Quality Indicators for Water Treatment Plant 341

**6,4 6,6 6,8 7,0 7,2 7,4 7,6 Water pH (Observed value)**

**-0,4 -0,3 -0,2 -0,1 0,0 0,1 0,2 Water pH (Error's frame)**

Fig. 11. Correlation between forecasted and observed values of water pH

**6,4**

Fig. 12. Histogram of errors for forecasted water pH

**No of examinations** 

**6,6**

**6,8**

**7,0**

**Water pH (Predicted value)**

**7,2**

**7,4**

**7,6**

Fig. 9. Correlation between forecasted and observed values for water colour

Fig. 10. Histogram of errors for forecasted water colour

**0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 Water colour mgPt\*dm-3 (Observed value)**

**Water colour (Error's frame)**

**>14**

Fig. 9. Correlation between forecasted and observed values for water colour

**0**

**<-10 (-8,-10) (-6,-8) (-4,-6) (-2,-4) (0,-2) (0,2) (2,4) (4,6) (6,8) (8,10) (10,12) (12,14)**

Fig. 10. Histogram of errors for forecasted water colour

**0**

**40**

**80**

**120**

**160**

**No of examinations**

**200**

**240**

**280**

**5**

**10**

**15**

**20**

**Water colour mgPt\*dm-3 (Predicted value)**

**25**

**30**

**35**

Fig. 11. Correlation between forecasted and observed values of water pH

Fig. 12. Histogram of errors for forecasted water pH

Modelling of Critical Water Quality Indicators for Water Treatment Plant 343

The calculated RMSE values were 1.69 mg Pt·dm-3 for water colour, 0.83 mg SiO3·dm-3 for water turbidity, 0.062 for pH and 1.38 mg CaCO3·dm-3 for the general hardness of the water. The correlation coefficients between the assessed and observed indices were 0.9318 for water colour, 0.9448 for water turbidity, 0.9475 for water pH and 0.9177 for the general hardness of the water. Indicators of the chosen water quality parameters were assessed based on the chosen ANN model. The results obtained were grouped into three subsets based on the

> mg Pt·dm-3

mg

Smax observed 30 12 7.2 48 0.75

Smax forecast 30 12 7.2 45 0.7

Smin observed 10 3 6.9 35 0.5 Smin forecast 5 3 6.9 35 0.5

Smax observed 14 12 7.5 44 0.65

Smax forecast 14 12 7.4 44 0.65

Smin observed 3 3 6.5 33 0.55 Smin forecast 3 3 6.6 33 0.55

Smax observed 16 12 7.5 4.8 0.95

Smax forecast 15 12 7.4 48 0.9

Smin observed 1 1 7 38 0.5 Smin forecast 1 1 7 39 0.5

Smax observed 30 12 7.5 48 0.95

Smax forecast 30 12 7.4 48 0.9

Smin observed 1 1 6.6 33 0.5

Smin forecast 1 1 6.6 33 0.5

Saver observed 10.2 5.2 7.09 41 0.64

Saver forecast 9.9 5.1 7.1 41.5 0.64

Table 3. Comparison of results forecasted by an ANN model and the indicators of water

Colour Turbidity pH Hardness Alkalinity

CaCO3·dm-3 mval·dm-3

SiO2·dm-3 pH mg

water temperature. The results are shown in Table 3.

Set Conditions Mark

Temp 17- 22oC, VZ 6.4- 9.2 mln m3 rainfall Pmax = 54 mm·d-1

Temp. 9- 16,9oC, VZ 6.5-8.9 mln m3, rain fall Pmax = 16.6 mm·d-1

Temp. 3- 8,9oC, VZ 7.8- 8.4 mln m3, rainfall Pmax = 25.7 mm·d-1

Temp. 3- 22oC, aver temp. 11.5oC VZ 6.6-9.2 mln m3, Vaverr 8.2 mln m3, rainfall Pmax = 54 mm·d-1

quality observed at the retention reservoir

Subset

**I** 

Subset

**II** 

Subset

**III** 

**Total set** 

Fig. 13. Correlation between forecasted and observed values of water general hardness

Fig. 14. Histogram of errors for forecasted water general hardness

**32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50**

**-4,0 -3,5 -3,0 -2,5 -2,0 -1,5 -1,0 -0,5 0,0 0,5 1,0 1,5 2,0 2,5 3,0 3,5 General hardness (Error's frame)**

Fig. 14. Histogram of errors for forecasted water general hardness

**\*dm-3) (Observed value)**

 **General hardness (mgCaCO<sup>3</sup>**

Fig. 13. Correlation between forecasted and observed values of water general hardness

**32**

**0**

**20**

**40**

**60**

**80**

**100**

**No of examinations**

**120**

**140**

**160**

**180**

**200**

**34**

**36**

**38**

**40**

 **General hardness (mgCaCO3\*dm-3) (Predicted value)**

**42**

**44**

**46**

**48**

The calculated RMSE values were 1.69 mg Pt·dm-3 for water colour, 0.83 mg SiO3·dm-3 for water turbidity, 0.062 for pH and 1.38 mg CaCO3·dm-3 for the general hardness of the water. The correlation coefficients between the assessed and observed indices were 0.9318 for water colour, 0.9448 for water turbidity, 0.9475 for water pH and 0.9177 for the general hardness of the water. Indicators of the chosen water quality parameters were assessed based on the chosen ANN model. The results obtained were grouped into three subsets based on the water temperature. The results are shown in Table 3.


Table 3. Comparison of results forecasted by an ANN model and the indicators of water quality observed at the retention reservoir

Modelling of Critical Water Quality Indicators for Water Treatment Plant 345

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## **5. Conclusions**

The effectiveness of an ANN FBM in establishing the critical indicators of water contamination at the reservoir was relatively good, providing high quality predictions with each of the models. Analysis of the predicted values of the quality indicator variables of the reservoir water and the observed ones was undertaken using Microsoft Access 2007.

The observed and forecasted values of the analysed indicators of water quality were aggregated into a data base for each ANN FBM model. Using the 'filter' function allowed the predicted values of the relevant indicator of water quality to be found once the observed variables were defined.

A suggested methodology for designing an ANN model resulted in an optimal configuration of the particular ANN type in order to establish the predicted values of the quality indicators of the water. The chosen ANN model could replace the current algorithms used in the design of modern systems which are responsible for water management at retention reservoirs. It could also be used to control and direct the processes controlling the abstraction and treatment of water used for consumption and industrial and agricultural purposes.

Designing a model to forecast indicators of water quality requires extensive examination of each water management establishment. The results of the analysis should determine the critical indicators of water quality. These would determine the character of the water being analysed and the characteristics required given the current and planned uses of the water.

A review and analysis of the literature has led to the following conclusions:


### **6. References**


The effectiveness of an ANN FBM in establishing the critical indicators of water contamination at the reservoir was relatively good, providing high quality predictions with each of the models. Analysis of the predicted values of the quality indicator variables of the

The observed and forecasted values of the analysed indicators of water quality were aggregated into a data base for each ANN FBM model. Using the 'filter' function allowed the predicted values of the relevant indicator of water quality to be found once the observed

A suggested methodology for designing an ANN model resulted in an optimal configuration of the particular ANN type in order to establish the predicted values of the quality indicators of the water. The chosen ANN model could replace the current algorithms used in the design of modern systems which are responsible for water management at retention reservoirs. It could also be used to control and direct the processes controlling the abstraction and treatment of water used for consumption and industrial and agricultural

Designing a model to forecast indicators of water quality requires extensive examination of each water management establishment. The results of the analysis should determine the critical indicators of water quality. These would determine the character of the water being analysed and the characteristics required given the current and planned uses of the water.

 Management of surface water treatment requires constant optimisation given the large number of indicators which influence water quality. It is essential to establish a model which predicts the critical values of the water quality indicators which, in turn,

 Having a large set of critical water quality indicators means that it is not possible to operate with just one technology system of water treatment processes. For the retention reservoir considered in this paper, the critical indicators were water temperature, water

 The suggested methodology for creating and verifying ANN models permits the development of an optimised configuration for a particular ANN type to best forecast

Bardossy, G.; Halasz, G. and Winter, J. (2009). Prognosis of urban water consumption using

Brion, G.M. and Lingireddy, S. (2003). Artificial neural network modelling: a summary of

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hybrid fuzzy algorithms. *Journal of Water Supply: Research and Technology-AQUA*

successful applications relative to microbial water quality. *Water Science &* 

A review and analysis of the literature has led to the following conclusions:

determine the water treatment technology system to apply.

colour, pH and the general hardness of the water.

the quality indicators of the water held in the reservoir.

reservoir water and the observed ones was undertaken using Microsoft Access 2007.

**5. Conclusions** 

variables were defined.

purposes.

**6. References** 

58(3), pp. 203–211.

*Technology* 47(3), pp. 235–240.


Zimoch, I. and Kłos, M. (2003). Use of IT to forecast eutrophication of surface water, "Dobczyce" reservoir as an example. *Environment Protection* 25(3), 73-76.

Zimoch, I. and Kłos, M. (2003). Use of IT to forecast eutrophication of surface water, "Dobczyce" reservoir as an example. *Environment Protection* 25(3), 73-76.

*Edited by Constantin Volosencu*

The book "Cutting Edge Research in New Technologies" presents the contributions of some researchers in modern fields of technology, serving as a valuable tool for scientists, researchers, graduate students and professionals. The focus is on several aspects of designing and manufacturing, examining complex technical products and some aspects of the development and use of industrial and service automation. The book covered some topics as it follows: manufacturing, machining, textile industry, CAD/CAM/CAE systems, electronic circuits, control and automation, electric drives, artificial intelligence, fuzzy logic, vision systems, neural networks, intelligent systems, wireless sensor networks, environmental technology, logistic services, transportation, intelligent security, multimedia, modeling, simulation, video techniques, water plant technology, globalization and technology. This collection of articles offers information which responds to the general goal of technology - how to develop manufacturing systems, methods, algorithms, how to use devices, equipments, machines or tools in order to increase the quality of the products, the human comfort or security.

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Cutting Edge Research in New Technologies

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