Flow Through Pipe Calculator Pressure

Flow Rate Formulas:

\[ V = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times (P_1 - P_2) \times 144}{\rho}} \] \[ Q = V \times A \times 448.83 \]

Pressure at Point 1 (P₁):

psi

Pressure at Point 2 (P₂):

psi

Fluid Density (ρ):

lb/ft³

Cross-sectional Area (A):

ft²

Velocity (V): ft/s

Flow Rate (Q): GPM

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1. What is a Flow Through Pipe Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates fluid velocity and volumetric flow rate through a pipe based on pressure difference using Bernoulli's equation.

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:

\[ V = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times (P_1 - P_2) \times 144}{\rho}} \] \[ Q = V \times A \times 448.83 \]

Where:

\( V \) — Fluid velocity (ft/s)
\( P_1, P_2 \) — Pressures at two points (psi)
\( \rho \) — Fluid density (lb/ft³, 62.4 for water)
\( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (GPM)
\( A \) — Cross-sectional area of pipe (ft²)

Explanation: The pressure difference drives the flow, converted to velocity, then multiplied by area to get flow rate.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate estimation ensures proper system design, pump sizing, and meets process requirements.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the pressures at two points, fluid density (default 62.4 lb/ft³ for water), and pipe cross-sectional area. All values must be > 0 except pressures which can be 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

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

Q3: Does this account for friction losses?
A: No, this is the theoretical maximum velocity assuming no friction losses.

Q4: How do I find pipe cross-sectional area?
A: For circular pipes: \( A = \pi \times (D/2)^2 \) where D is diameter in feet.

Q5: What density should I use for other fluids?
A: Use 49.2 lb/ft³ for gasoline, 78.6 lb/ft³ for seawater, or look up specific values.