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Machine‑learning‑based fresh water service reservoir outflow data logging system and virtual outlet flowmeter

Eugene S S LEUNG
Pages: 1-10Published: 17 Jul 2026
DOI: 10.33430/V33N1THIE‑2025‑0030
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LEUNG S S, Machine‑learning‑based fresh water service reservoir outflow data logging system and virtual outlet flowmeter, HKIE Transactions, Vol. 33, No. 1 (Regular Issue), Article THIE-2025-0030.R1, 2026, 10.33430/V33N1THIE‑2025‑0030

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Abstract:

This paper presents the implementation of a Virtual Outlet Flowmeter (VOF) and a Service Reservoir Outflow Data Logging System (SRODLS) in a Fresh Water Service Reservoir (FWSR). A VOF offers a cost‑effective solution for estimating outlet flow rates without physical meters. SRODLS improves the data quality by providing continuous logging and remote access to critical data, facilitating efficient fault detection and troubleshooting. The paper also explores machine learning anomaly detection systems to identify data inconsistencies and potential issues in water flow data. By leveraging historical data and advanced algorithms, the system can detect unusual patterns that may indicate problems such as leaks or infrastructure failures. The application of machine learning in forecasting and anomaly detection is seen as a significant step forward in water resource management. The results show that the implementation of VOFs and SRODLS in pilot FWSRs has been successful, contributing to better planning and management of water resources with minimal operational impact. The paper concludes with the potential for future developments, including the analysis of minimum night flow and the creation of APIs for hydraulic modelling, to further enhance water loss detection and resource management.

Keywords:

water supply; data analytics; virtual metering; machine learning; water resources, control automation and instrumentation

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