Optimización del sistema de distribución de agua potable del barrio “Cuilche Miño”, cantón Latacunga para garantizar la eficiencia del servicio

Abstract

This technical project was carried out in the neighborhood of Cuilche Miño, located in the parish of San Juan de Pastocalle, Latacunga canton, Cotopaxi province. The potable water distribution system (PWDS) in the area was built in 2003 to serve 95 users; however, it currently supplies 225 users, far exceeding its original design capacity. This situation, along with the imminent end of the system’s design life (25 years) and the unplanned expansions executed without technical oversight, has led to operational deficiencies such as overpressures, low flow velocities, and inadequate service quality. Therefore, a detailed study and a viable solution for this sector became necessary. The process began with the collection of baseline information, including a topographic survey using RTK and a detailed inventory of the existing infrastructure. Subsequently, the entire hydraulic infrastructure of the network was evaluated to determine its current condition. Additionally, through computational hydraulic modeling under static and dynamic conditions, deficiencies such as overpressures, inadequate velocities, and critical nodes were identified. Finally, an optimization proposal was developed, based on regulatory criteria, which included a detailed hydraulic design, unit price analysis, and a referential investment budget. The diagnostic phase identified physical deterioration in key components of the system. The hydraulic modeling showed overpressures in most nodes and low velocities in a large portion of the network. As a result, a comprehensive redesign of the PWDS was proposed, with a 25- year design period and a projected future population of 1242 inhabitants. The new network includes 12.78 km of PVC pipelines, covering a total area of 180 hectares. Furthermore, efficient performance was achieved: 98% of nodes and over 78% of pipelines operate within the technical parameters established by national regulations, effectively controlling overpressures and excessive velocities to ensure a high-quality, continuous, and sustainable service for the Cuilche Miño neighborhood.