Introduction of a novel pressure index to estimate the water distribution systems pipe burst rate based on historical data

One of the primary causes of pipe bursts in water distribution systems (WDS) is high water pressure within the pipe networks. The pipe renewal activity is an expensive practice for water authorities. Therefore, an accurate prediction for the number of pipe bursts within the WDS can contribute to efficient budget planning. This research introduces a new methodology to estimate the number of pipe bursts for the future WDS population growth. The introduced methodology could benefit the society through more planned and accurate operational and maintenance budget expenditure.