基于计算机的数学模型正在成为模拟配水系统中污染物行为的有效手段。具体使用了三种模型:水力模型、稳态模型和动态水质模型。此类模型可用于评估替代操作和设计决策，确定因无意中将污染物引入配水系统而产生的影响，或用于水质采样计划的设计。本文讨论了为分析分配系统中污染物的运动和转化而开发的一系列模型。 作者介绍了一个最近的案例，其中一组模型被用于调查密苏里州的水传播疾病暴发。

Computer-based mathematical models are emerging as effective means of simulating the behavior of contaminants in a water distribution system. Three models in particular are used: hydraulic models, steady- state models, and dynamic water quality models. Such models may be used to assess alternative operational and design decisions, determine the impacts resulting from the inadvertent introduction of a contaminant into the distribution system, or in the design of a water quality sampling program. This paper discusses the range of models that have been developed for analyzing the movement and transformation of a contaminant in a distribution system. The author presents a recent case in which a group of models was used to investigate an outbreak of waterborne disease in Missouri.