Forward-Looking Network Planning
Water Network Planning—Technically Sound, Long-Term Thinking
A water distribution network isn’t planned for today, but for decades
A drinking water pipeline often remains in the ground for fifty years or longer. So if something goes wrong during the planning phase, it will be a source of frustration for ages. If it’s undersized, the pressure won’t be sufficient during peak demand. If it’s oversized, the water sits in the pipe for too long, with all the associated hygiene risks. Getting the design right is a balancing act.
Netzkontor designs water distribution networks to successfully navigate this tightrope walk. We perform detailed hydraulic calculations rather than relying on estimates based on experience, and we factor in future demand from the very beginning. Our experience in constructing utility networks across all sectors is directly incorporated into the planning process.
What Our Network Planning Encompasses
Initial Assessment and Status Analysis
First, we take stock of what’s already in place: as-built plans, the condition of existing pipelines, consumption data, and known vulnerabilities. Especially in renovation projects, an honest assessment of the current state is crucial to the success of the entire project.
Pipeline Network
Structure Planning We define the network structure: main and service lines, pressure zones, connection points, and loop closures to ensure supply reliability. This determines how resilient your network will be against outages in the future.
Hydraulic Analysis and Pipe Network Calculation
Using a hydraulic pipe network analysis, we verify that pressure and flow are adequate at every point—even during peak loads and in the event of firefighting water discharge. This helps you avoid undersupply in outlying areas and unnecessarily expensive oversizing in the core areas.
Sizing and Material Selection
Pipe diameter, pressure rating, material: cast iron, PE, or another material, depending on soil conditions, load, and installation situation. We select what is technically sound and economically viable—not simply what happens to be cheapest at the moment.
Construction Planning
The final step is the planning that actually guides the construction: route alignment, depth, intersections with other utility networks, valves, and gate valves. Detailed enough so that the construction site doesn’t have to constantly ask for clarification.
Designed in accordance with DVGW regulations and the Drinking Water Ordinance (TrinkwV)
The guidelines for drinking water are strict, and for good reason. We design in accordance with the DVGW’s technical rules, such as W 400-1 for the design of water distribution systems and W 410 for determining water demand. We factor in fire protection water supply from the outset—not just when the fire department asks.
Added to this is the amended Drinking Water Ordinance 2023 with its stricter requirements, such as the new PFAS limit values and the obligation to identify existing lead pipes. And with the KRITIS umbrella law, the resilience of the water supply is coming into sharper focus. We plan within this framework to ensure your network passes the next inspection.
Your Benefits at a Glance
- Hydraulically calculated design instead of estimates based on empirical values
- Design in accordance with DVGW regulations (W 400-1, W 410) and TrinkwV 2023
- Firewater supply and supply reliability taken into account
- Cost-effective sizing, no expensive oversizing
- Detailed design that allows the construction site to proceed without needing to seek clarification
- Experience gained from the construction of actual supply networks
Here's how we approach network planning
- Conduct a survey—existing lines, consumption, and weak points.
- Define the structure—pressure zones, main and supply lines, loop connections.
- Perform hydraulic calculations—pressure and flow at every point, including under load.
- Sizing – Diameter, pressure rating, and material appropriate for the situation.
- Deliver construction drawings—detailed enough to ensure a smooth construction process.
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Your water network, planned with precision
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