1. What is Flow Rate for Water in Pipe?

Definition: This calculator determines the volumetric flow rate of water through a pipe in gallons per minute (GPM).

Purpose: It helps engineers, plumbers, and irrigation specialists design and analyze piping systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute)
• \( V \) — Velocity of water (feet per second)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area of pipe (square feet)
• 448.83 — Conversion factor (ft³/s to GPM)

Explanation: The formula converts the basic volumetric flow rate (V×A) from cubic feet per second to gallons per minute.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Proper flow rate calculation ensures adequate water supply, proper pipe sizing, and efficient system design.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical water velocity in pipes?
A: Residential systems typically use 5-8 ft/s; industrial systems may go up to 10 ft/s.

Q2: How do I find pipe cross-sectional area?
A: For circular pipes: A = π × r² (where r is radius in feet).

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

Q4: Does this work for other liquids?
A: Only for water. For other liquids, you'd need to adjust for specific gravity.

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