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 understand the relationship between flow characteristics and resulting pressure in fluid systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses two 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, then uses the velocity to determine dynamic pressure.

3. Importance of Pressure Calculation

Details: Understanding this relationship is crucial for proper system design, pump selection, and ensuring safe operating pressures.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the 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 is the 448.83 conversion factor?
A: This converts GPM to ft³/s and accounts for the pipe area (1 GPM = 0.002228 ft³/s, inverse is ~448.83).

Q2: Why divide by 144 in the pressure formula?
A: This converts from lb/ft² to psi (1 ft² = 144 in²).

Q3: What density should I use for other fluids?
A: Use 49.2 for gasoline, 78.6 for seawater, or look up specific values for your fluid.

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

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