What term describes the pressure in a water pipe when no water is flowing?

The term that describes the pressure in a water pipe when no water is flowing is static pressure. This type of pressure represents the potential energy in the system when the water is at rest, allowing it to exert force against the walls of the pipe without any movement of water. Static pressure is crucial for understanding water supply systems, as it affects how water is stored in tanks and how it responds in various conditions.

In contrast, flow pressure measures the pressure while water is actively flowing, which is influenced by both the velocity of the water and the resistance encountered. Residual pressure refers to the pressure remaining in the system during flow, often considered when calculating the ability of the system to deliver water under specific demands, particularly during firefighting scenarios. Dynamic pressure is associated with the pressure resulting from the movement of the water itself, impacted by the flow rate and pipe size.

Understanding static pressure is fundamental for those operating water delivery systems, as it ensures adequate pressure levels are maintained during times of inactivity, guaranteeing proper functionality when needed.