AbstractPressure pulsations in hydraulic systems, generated by reciprocating pumps, can cause serious problems with regard to plant safety and reliability. In particular, fatigue problems arise in high‐pressure piping systems. The available knowledge is not sufficient for an accurate computation of pressure peaks in the piping of reciprocating pumps. A number of calculation models are available which, however, neglect both fluid compressibility and friction. This contribution presents a calculation method which allows a precise modelling of various pump installations. Comparison of calculated and experimental data shows a good agreement and provides a validation of the computational model.