Optimization of Potable Water Supply for 1,600 residents

The Rincón de la Candelaria community, located in the municipality of Atlacomulco, State of Mexico, at 2,614 meters above sea level, relies on a pumping system to supply potable water from a groundwater source, with an operating flow rate of 50 lps (177 m³/h) and working pressure of up to 242 psi.

The existing pipeline, constructed with 6” SDR 9 HDPE 4717 pipe, presented recurring failures at the thermofusion joints.

Despite having protection accessories at the pumping station, the required pipeline route—crossing urbanized areas between houses and roads—prevented the installation of additional surge protection devices.

As a result, the pipeline was exposed to transient pressure increases caused by water hammer phenomena inherent to well operation. These overpressures compromised the structural integrity of the pipeline and caused service interruptions for approximately 1,600 residents.

Additionally, the groundwater contained minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, sodium, potassium, and bicarbonates, which may promote scaling and affect hydraulic performance in conventional systems.