1. What is a Fill-Rite Flow Meter Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the flow rate (in gallons per minute) through a Fill-Rite flow meter based on fluid velocity and pipe cross-sectional area.

Purpose: It helps professionals and technicians in fuel transfer, chemical processing, and liquid handling applications to measure and verify flow rates.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute)
• \( V \) — Fluid velocity (feet per second)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area of pipe (square feet)
• 448.83 — Conversion factor (cubic feet per second to GPM)

Explanation: The velocity multiplied by area gives volumetric flow in cubic feet per second, which is then converted to gallons per minute.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate measurement ensures proper system performance, prevents overflows, and helps maintain safe operating conditions in liquid transfer systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the fluid velocity in ft/s and the pipe's cross-sectional area in ft². For circular pipes, area = π × (diameter/2)².

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the typical velocity range for Fill-Rite meters?
A: Most applications operate between 2-10 ft/s, but consult your specific meter's specifications.

Q2: How do I find the cross-sectional area?
A: For circular pipes: A = π × r² (where r is radius in feet). For other shapes, use appropriate area formulas.

Q3: Why 448.83 as the conversion factor?
A: It converts cubic feet per second to gallons per minute (1 ft³/s = 448.83 GPM).

Q4: Does this work for all liquid types?
A: Yes, but viscosity may affect actual flow rates. The formula assumes water-like viscosity.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical flow rates. Actual rates may vary due to friction, pipe roughness, and meter characteristics.