Genetic Algorithms in Pipeline Optimization

The application of a genetic algorithm to the steady state optimization of a serial liquid pipeline is considered. Genetic algorithms are search procedures based upon the mechanics of natural genetics, combining a Darwinian survival-of-the-fittest philosophy with a random yet structured information exchange among a population of artificial chromosomes. Computer results show surprising speed as near-optimal results are obtained after examining a small fraction of the search space. The method is ready for application to more difficult optimization problems in civil engineering.