What is a hydraulic model used for in water distribution systems?

A hydraulic model in water distribution systems is primarily used to simulate the flow of water within the system. By creating a mathematical representation of the water distribution network, engineers and planners can analyze how water moves through the system under various conditions. This simulation allows for the assessment of factors such as flow rates, velocities, and pressure changes in different parts of the network.

Using hydraulic modeling is essential for designing systems to ensure adequate water supply, identifying potential problem areas, and optimizing the distribution of resources. This includes determining the impact of new developments or changes in water demand, as well as testing various operational scenarios without needing to physically alter the actual infrastructure.

While measuring water quality and calculating water pressure are important components of water system management, those functions rely on actual field measurements or different types of analyses rather than on the flow simulation aspect that a hydraulic model provides. Hence, the core purpose of a hydraulic model being to simulate water flow is what makes this answer correct.