Hydraulic modeling software

Learn how to use hydraulic modeling software to design, analyze, and simulate water distribution, stormwater, and wastewater systems.

What is hydraulic modeling?

Hydraulic modeling is a scientific process that uses mathematical equations, computer simulations, and data analysis techniques to represent and predict the behavior of water in natural and engineered systems.

Importance of hydraulic modeling software

Hydraulic modeling software is an important tool for ensuring the effective and efficient operation of water distribution, stormwater, and wastewater networks. Proper design, simulation, and analysis of water behavior.

Hydraulic modeling software and digital twins

Hydraulic modeling software is used to simulate and analyze the behavior of water and wastewater networks. The output of these simulations, combined with real-time sensor data, can be used to create an operational digital twin to optimize the performance of the system.

Benefits of hydraulic modeling software

Informed decision making

Predict the impacts of water network changes and stormwater events.

System optimization

Identify inefficiencies and potential issues with water assets.

Risk assessment

Assess infrastructure risks to develop mitigation measures.

Environmental compliance

Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and requirements.

Water systems represented in a hydraulic model

Autodesk hydraulic modeling software supports a wide range of water systems and networks.

Clean water distribution systems

Systems that transport clean water from a source to customers through a network of pipes, pumps, valves, and storage tanks.

Wastewater collection systems

Systems that collect and transport wastewater, or sanitary sewage, from homes, businesses, and industries to treatment facilities.

Stormwater management systems

Systems that manage the runoff from rain and other precipitation to prevent flooding and protect water quality.

Model complex hydraulic and hydrologic network elements quickly, accurately, and collaboratively.


Design and audit drainage systems quickly, easily, and confidently.


Comprehensive and collaborative water distribution analysis and modeling


Optimize planning, design, and operations of your water distribution network for ArcGIS Users


How is hydraulic modeling software being used?

Jacobs Engineering

Innovative use of hydraulic modeling software for rain-derived inflow and infiltration.


Bristol Water

Hydraulic models help address critical improvement projects for improved water quality.


Arcadis Hong Kong

Use of hydraulic modeling software to help Hong Kong with flood risk mapping for extreme weather.


OHM Advisors

Creating modern digital plans using hydraulic modeling software for the City of Livonia, Michigan.


Water distribution network modeling resources

Use hydraulic modeling software to quickly assess pipe bursts in a water distribution system.

Water distribution modeling can help water utilities find and reduce water leakage, pipe breaks, and water theft.

Free learning series for GIS practitioners looking to answer hydraulic questions. Easily model water networks from within ArcGIS Pro with InfoWater Pro.

Stormwater and flood modeling resources

Extreme flood events are happening more frequently and hydraulic modeling can help communities be better prepared.

Series of videos for stormwater experts to get started with hydraulic modeling in InfoWorks ICM.

Use hydraulic modeling software to mimic the natural water cycle and manage rainfall with sustainable infrastructure.

Sanitary sewer network modeling resources

Hear from Thames Water and Anglian Water how hydraulic models are used to predict combined sewer overflows (CSOs).

An academic institution uses hydraulic modeling to better prepare for flood events and build resilience to sewer overflows.

Explore the benefits of modeling complex hydraulic and hydrologic network elements to improve wastewater planning and management.

Hydraulic modeling software FAQ

What is sewer modeling?

Sewer modeling is a process that uses mathematical equations, computer simulations, and data analysis techniques to represent and analyze the behavior of sewer systems. Sewer systems are engineered networks responsible for collecting and transporting wastewater and stormwater from residential, commercial, and industrial areas to treatment facilities or discharge points.

What is drainage design?

Drainage design involves carefully planning, crafting, and setting up infrastructure systems to effectively gather, transport, and dispose of stormwater and surface runoff. The main goals of drainage design include preventing floods, reducing erosion, preserving water quality, and protecting property and infrastructure from water-related damage.

What is the difference between hydraulic and hydrologic modeling?

A hydraulic model is a mathematical model of a fluid flow system, such as a water, sewer, or storm system, used to analyze the system's behavior. A hydraulic model uses data, such as GIS, CAD, and as-builts to create a digital representation of the real-world system.

 

A hydrologic model is designed to estimate the amount of runoff or streamflow generated by rainfall. It represents the quantity of water generated from a specific land area or watershed. A hydrologic model aids in understanding, predicting, and managing water resources by capturing real-world data such as water flow and quality.

How accurate are hydraulic models?

Hydraulic model accuracy depends on the quality of input data, the representation of physical processes, and the calibration and validation of the model against observed data. Advances in data collection, computational power, and modeling techniques have significantly improved the accuracy of hydraulic models.

Can hydraulic modeling software be used to simulate climate change impacts?

Yes, many hydraulic modeling software tools can incorporate climate change projections and assess potential impacts on water resources, helping with the development of adaptation strategies and long-term water resource planning.

How can water modeling software help with infrastructure planning and management?

Hydraulic modeling software helps design, analyze, and evaluate the performance of various utility infrastructures, including water distribution networks, stormwater management systems, and wastewater collection systems. Additionally, water asset management software can pinpoint weaknesses in water infrastructure, enabling prioritization of maintenance or upgrades to boost operational efficiency.

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