What phenomenon is characterized by a rapid rise in pressure within pipes due to a sudden change in water velocity?

The phenomenon characterized by a rapid rise in pressure within pipes due to a sudden change in water velocity is known as water hammer. This occurs when a fluid in motion is forced to stop or change direction suddenly, such as when a valve is closed quickly or a pump is turned off suddenly. The abrupt change in velocity creates a pressure wave that travels through the water, leading to a sharp increase in pressure that can potentially damage pipes, fittings, and fixtures if not managed properly.

Water hammer can lead to audible banging noises and vibration in the piping system as the pressure wave travels, which is a typical symptom of this issue. Addressing water hammer often involves installing water hammer arrestors or cushions to absorb the pressure surge and mitigate its effects. This phenomenon is crucial to understand in irrigation systems, as it can impact performance and longevity. Other terms like water surge or pressure spike may describe similar situations but do not specifically refer to the rapid pressure changes associated with sudden velocity changes in a fluid, which is unique to water hammer.