Hydraulic transients cause low‐pressure problems

Most engineers are familiar with hydraulic transients that cause problems with excessive pressure in water distribution systems. However, transients can also cause short-lived low-pressure problems. This article describes the analysis conducted by the Austin (Texas) Water and Wastewater Utility that identified transients as the source of low pressures in a portion of the city. Pressures recorded during controlled conditions provided the key in identifying pump and valve operation as the source of the problem