Define "friction loss" in the context of pressure piping.

Friction loss refers to the reduction in pressure resulting from the resistance encountered when a fluid flows through a piping system. This resistance arises from factors such as the roughness of the pipe's internal surface, the length of the pipe, the viscosity of the fluid, and the flow rate. As fluid moves, it experiences friction against the pipe walls, which causes a drop in pressure as energy is dissipated. Understanding friction loss is crucial for designing efficient piping systems, as it affects the pressures needed to maintain adequate flow rates. Recognizing this concept helps technicians calculate the necessary pump sizes and pipe diameters to ensure system effectiveness and safety, which is a fundamental aspect of pressure piping mechanics.