1. What is Pressure from Flow Rate Calculation?

Definition: This calculator determines the pressure generated by fluid flow through a pipe based on flow rate, pipe area, and fluid density.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians analyze fluid systems and ensure proper pressure requirements are met.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these formulas:

Where:

• \( P \) — Pressure (psi)
• \( V \) — Velocity (ft/s)
• \( \rho \) — Fluid density (lb/ft³)
• \( Q \) — Flow rate (GPM)
• \( A \) — Pipe cross-sectional area (ft²)

Explanation: First calculates velocity from flow rate and area, then determines dynamic pressure from velocity and density.

3. Importance of Pressure Calculation

Details: Proper pressure estimation ensures system safety, proper equipment selection, and efficient fluid system design.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter flow rate in GPM, pipe area in square feet, and fluid density (default 62.4 lb/ft³ for water). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the 448.83 conversion factor?
A: It converts GPM and ft² to ft/s (1 GPM = 0.002228 ft³/s, so 1/448.83 ≈ 0.002228).

Q2: Why divide by 144 in pressure calculation?
A: Converts lb/ft² to psi (1 ft² = 144 in²).

Q3: What density should I use for other fluids?
A: Use 49.2 lb/ft³ for gasoline, 78.6 lb/ft³ for seawater, or the specific density of your fluid.

Q4: Does this account for friction losses?
A: No, this calculates dynamic pressure only. For total system pressure, add static pressure and friction losses.

Q5: How do I find pipe area?
A: For circular pipes: \( A = \pi \times (diameter/2)^2 \) (convert diameter to feet).