1. What is a Flow Calculator Through Pipe?

Definition: This calculator estimates the flow rate through a pipe based on the fluid velocity and pipe's cross-sectional area.

Purpose: It helps engineers, plumbers, and technicians determine the volumetric flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM) through piping systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute, GPM)
• \( V \) — Fluid velocity (feet per second, ft/s)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area of pipe (square feet, ft²)
• 448.83 — Conversion factor (cubic feet to gallons and seconds to minutes)

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

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculations ensure proper pipe sizing, system efficiency, and prevent issues like excessive pressure drop or cavitation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the fluid velocity in ft/s and pipe cross-sectional area in ft². For circular pipes, area = π × (diameter/2)². All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical velocity for water in pipes?
A: Common design velocities are 4-8 ft/s for supply lines and 2-5 ft/s for drainage.

Q2: How do I find the cross-sectional area?
A: For circular pipes: \( A = \pi \times r^2 \) where r is radius in feet.

Q3: Why 448.83 as the conversion factor?
A: It combines 7.48052 (gallons per cubic foot) × 60 (seconds to minutes) = 448.8312.

Q4: Does this work for any fluid?
A: Yes, but the velocity should be appropriate for the specific fluid's viscosity and density.

Q5: What if I know diameter instead of area?
A: First calculate area using \( A = \pi \times (diameter/2)^2 \), then use this calculator.