ASHRAE Terminology

A Comprehensive Glossary of Terms for the Built Environment
ashrae.org/ashraeterms

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head

(1) energy per unit mass of fluid divided by gravitational acceleration. (2) in fluid statics and dynamics, a vertical linear measure. Note: the terms head and pressure are often mistakenly used interchangeably. See also suction head. (3) operating pressure measured in the discharge line at a pump, fan, or compressor outlet (i.e., at the head).