What term describes a pressure surge or wave caused by the kinetic energy of fluid when forced to stop or change direction?

The term that accurately describes a pressure surge or wave caused by the kinetic energy of fluid when it is forced to stop or change direction is "water hammer." This phenomenon occurs when a fluid in motion is suddenly forced to halt or change direction, resulting in a rapid increase in pressure within the piping system. The energy from the moving fluid creates shock waves that can lead to loud banging noises in pipes and potentially damage equipment or infrastructure due to the intense fluctuations in pressure.

Water hammer is particularly relevant in plumbing and fire protection systems, where sudden valve closures or rapid changes in flow can often trigger this effect. Understanding water hammer is crucial for those operating fire systems, as it helps in mitigating potential damage and ensuring the integrity of the piping systems.