This research proposes an optimal flushing operation technique in an effort to prevent secondary water pollutions and accidents in aged pipes, and to improve the cleaning effect of unidirectional flushing. Water flow directions were analyzed using EPANET 2.0, while flushing and air scouring experiments in forward and reverse directions were performed in the field. In 42 experiments, average residual chlorine concentration and turbidity were improved after cleaning compared to before cleaning. It was found that even when the same cleaning method was used, further improvement of cleaning effect was possible by applying air injection and reverse direction cleaning techniques. By means of one-way ANOVA(Analysis of variance), it was also possible to statistically verify the need of actively utilizing air injection and reverse direction cleaning. Based on correlation between turbidity and TSS, the total amount of suspended solids removal was estimated for 874 flushing operations and 194 air scouring operations. The result showed that air scouring used more discharge water than flushing by an average of 4.9 m3 yet with larger amounts of suspended solids removal by an average of 145.9 g. The result of analysis on turbidity values from 887 flushing operations showed low cleaning effect of unidirectional flushing for the pipes with diameters over 300 mm. In addition, the turbidity values measured during cleaning showed an increasing tendency as pipe age increased. The methodology and results of this research are expected to contribute to the efficient maintenance and improvement of water quality in water distribution networks. Follow-up research involving the measurement of water quality at regular time intervals during cleaning would allow a more accurate comparison of discharge water quality characteristics and cleaning effects between different cleaning methods. To this end, it is considered necessary to develop a standardized manual that can be used in the field and to provide relevant trainings.

Particulate matters in a water distribution system are main causes of turbidity and discoloration of tap water. They could be removed by conventional or uni-directional flushing in a water distribution system. The behaviors and required flow velocity of particles are not well known for their flushing. A model water main and hydrant were made from transparent acrylic pipe of 30mm and 16mm in diameter, respectively. We analyzed the effect of flushing velocity, particle density, and particle diameter. We found that the existence of break-though velocities at which particles begin to be removed, and which are affected by their physical properties. The removal efficiencies seemed to be influenced by resuspension capabilities related to their upward movement from the bottom. Heavy particles like scale were hard to remove through upflow hydrant because the falling velocity, calculated using Stokes’ law, was higher. Particle removal efficiencies of upward hydrant and downward drain showed minor differences. Additionally, the length between hydrant and control valve affected flushing efficiency because the particulate matters were trapped in this space by inertia and recirculating flow.