TalTech Urban Water Systems Research Group

The urban water systems research team coordinates and participates in different international research and development projects with the focus on developing and implementing of novel digital and smart solutions for improving the management and functionality of urban water systems. Basic research focuses on the flow dynamics in old rough pipes, including experimental studies and CFD modelling. Main funding sources for the ongoing projects are Estonian Research Council, EC LIFE program and different Interreg programs. We see opportunities for cooperation in several fields. Our projects deal with climate change impacts on system performance, holistic urban planning, protection of ecosystems, implementation of circular economy, digitalization and modelling. Smart water usage is directly or indirectly linked with all SDG principles. Therefore, there are plenty of opportunities for cross-sectoral cooperation. Main research fields Urban water systems (drinking water, storm water, sewage): System analysis, optimization, design, risk assessment, modelling, analysis related to aging infrastructure. Smart water systems: • Real time control of urban water systems, development of control algorithms and concepts. • Planning and conducting of monitoring including analyzing the functioning of sensors, data acquisition and management. • Desing and management of flow control devices. • Quality based management of water systems. Water systems as a part of holistic urban planning: • Urban planning considering climate change and water system functioning • Combined implementation of green/blue/white/grey infrastructure to improve the service quality and urban environment. • Risk assessment, mitigation and adaptation (focusing on pluvial flood reduction, water scarcity and quality) Modelling of hydraulic systems: • Experimental investigations of hydraulic systems including flow visualization • Numerical modelling of hydraulic systems including CFD, SWMM, EPANET