Date of Award:

8-2025

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Committee Chair(s)

Michael C. Johnson

Committee

Michael C. Johnson

Committee

Zachary B. Sharp

Committee

Burdette Barker

Abstract

In pressurized water systems, flow control devices such as valves and meters cause pressure losses that can affect energy efficiency and measurement accuracy. Industry standards assume that all devices recover within the same distance downstream, but this may not be true for all device types. In this study we used laboratory testing and computer modeling to determine how far downstream pressure stabilizes after flowing through various valves and meters. Devices like Venturi meters recovered pressure quickly, while orifice plates required longer distances and resulted in greater permanent energy loss. In most cases, pressure recovered within four to six pipe diameters.

The results improved understanding of how pressure behaves after flow restrictions and helped identify more accurate locations for pressure sensors in pipelines. The findings generally supported existing engineering guidelines but also indicated that adjustments may be necessary depending on the device. These insights can reduce system costs, improve flow measurement accuracy, and support the design of more reliable water and industrial fluid systems.

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