Network maintenance
Once you’ve completed the integration and calibration of your network model in Qatium, we recommend you to keep it updated. Real-world water systems evolve—and your model should too. Regular network maintenance ensures your model continues to deliver accurate, reliable insights as your infrastructure and operations change.
When to update your network
You should update your model whenever any of the following changes occur:
Sensor updates
Sensor infrastructure is dynamic—sensors may be installed, replaced, or removed over time. These changes must be reflected in your model to maintain its accuracy. Consider the following:
- Add new sensors or remove outdated ones in your GIS.
- Ensure they’re correctly mapped in Qatium via the signal mapping file.
- Confirm data is feeding into Qatium correctly and that associated assets display the expected sensor readings.
Physical changes in the network
Changes in infrastructure—such as the installation of new valves, pipe replacements, or network expansions—should also be reflected in your model. Here’s how:
- Update your GIS dataset with the new physical layout.
- Re-upload the updated GIS data to Qatium.
- Ensure all elements are properly connected and network topology remains consistent.
Operational changes (control logic)
Control rules may evolve due to infrastructure upgrades, seasonal patterns, or operational strategies. These updates need to be mirrored in Qatium:
- Adjust the control rules for pumps, valves, or other assets.
- Reflect new configurations resulting from physical changes or updated operational strategies.
How to update your network in Qatium
Regardless of the file type you used to create your network, you can easily update it anytime by adding new files or replacing the existing ones.
Add new files or GIS layers
- Make sure to name the new files differently to avoid overwriting existing ones.
- While inside the network, drag & drop them into the interface.
OR
Click on the Network layers icon and then Add data
⚠️ Important: Qatium doesn’t support more than 1 .inp file per network. Meaning that–even if the .inp is named differently–we always replace the existing one with the last .inp file added.
Replace existing files
- Make sure you keep the same file names as the existing ones.
- While inside the network, drag & drop them into the interface
OR
Click on the Network layers icon and then Add data
Best practices for network maintenance
Document changes: Keep a record of what has been updated and why—especially helpful for future audits or troubleshooting.
Recalibrate if needed: After significant updates, verify model performance against field data and recalibrate if necessary.
Review regularly: Schedule periodic checks of your GIS data, control logic, and sensor status.
By keeping your model aligned with your real-world network, Qatium continues to be a reliable tool for decision-making, scenario planning, and day-to-day operations.