Describe the causes of water hammer in a potable water system and the methods used to prevent it.

Water hammer in a potable water system is a pressure surge or wave caused by the sudden stop or change in direction of water flow. This sudden change in momentum creates a shock wave that travels through the pipes, causing a banging or hammering noise. The primary cause of water hammer is the rapid closure of valves, especially quick-closing valves such as solenoid valves or ball valves. When a valve is suddenly closed, the water flowing behind it is abruptly stopped, creating a pressure wave that travels back up the pipe. This pressure wave can be seve....