What is residual pressure in a water distribution system?

Residual pressure in a water distribution system refers to the pressure that remains in the system when a hydrant is flowing. This pressure is crucial for understanding the available flow and pressure that can be delivered through the system at any given moment. When firefighters or other water service providers connect to a hydrant, they draw water which causes a demand on the system.

The residual pressure indicates the system's ability to maintain flow despite this demand, highlighting how much pressure is available in the system for firefighting or other uses. It is an important consideration for ensuring adequate water supply and effective fire suppression operations.

Understanding residual pressure helps in assessing the performance of the water distribution system during high-demand situations. It provides insight into the operational capacity of the system and can guide necessary adjustments to ensure that sufficient pressure is maintained for emergency or peak usage scenarios.