1. What is a Flow Rate from Pressure Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates fluid flow rate (in gallons per minute) based on pressure difference, fluid density, and pipe cross-sectional area.

Purpose: It helps engineers, plumbers, and fluid system designers determine flow characteristics in piping systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these formulas:

Where:

• \( V \) — Fluid velocity (feet per second)
• \( P_1 \) — Inlet pressure (psi)
• \( P_2 \) — Outlet pressure (psi)
• \( \rho \) — Fluid density (pounds per cubic foot)
• \( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area (square feet)

Explanation: The pressure difference is converted to velocity, which is then converted to volumetric flow rate.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculations ensure proper system design, pump sizing, and performance evaluation in fluid systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter pressure values in psi, fluid density in lb/ft³ (water is 62.4), and cross-sectional area in ft². All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the 144 factor in the formula?
A: It converts psi to lb/ft² (1 psi = 144 lb/ft²) for consistent units.

Q2: What's the 448.83 conversion factor?
A: This converts ft³/s to GPM (1 ft³/s = 448.83 GPM).

Q3: What's a typical fluid density for water?
A: Fresh water at 60°F is 62.4 lb/ft³. Salt water is about 64 lb/ft³.

Q4: How do I calculate pipe cross-sectional area?
A: For circular pipes: \( A = \pi \times (diameter/2)^2 \) (convert diameter to feet).

Q5: Does this account for friction losses?
A: No, this is ideal flow. For real systems, consider additional pressure drop from friction.