Flow Through an Orifice Calculator

Flow Rate Formula:

\[ Q = C_d \times A \times \sqrt{\frac{2 \times \Delta P}{\rho}} \times 448.83 \]

Discharge Coefficient (C_d):

Orifice Area (A):

ft²

Pressure Difference (ΔP):

psi

Fluid Density (ρ):

lb/ft³

Flow Rate (Q): GPM

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1. What is a Flow Through an Orifice Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the volumetric flow rate of a fluid through an orifice based on the orifice characteristics and fluid properties.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine flow rates in piping systems, hydraulic systems, and other fluid applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ Q = C_d \times A \times \sqrt{\frac{2 \times \Delta P}{\rho}} \times 448.83 \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute, GPM)
\( C_d \) — Discharge coefficient (dimensionless)
\( A \) — Orifice area (square feet, ft²)
\( \Delta P \) — Pressure difference across orifice (pounds per square inch, psi)
\( \rho \) — Fluid density (pounds per cubic foot, lb/ft³)

Explanation: The formula calculates the theoretical flow rate through an orifice, accounting for the orifice characteristics and fluid properties.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculations are essential for system design, performance evaluation, and troubleshooting in fluid systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the discharge coefficient (default 0.62 for sharp-edged orifices), orifice area, pressure difference, and fluid density (default 62.4 lb/ft³ for water). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical discharge coefficient value?
A: For sharp-edged orifices, 0.62 is common. Values range from 0.6-0.9 depending on orifice geometry.

Q2: How do I calculate orifice area?
A: For circular orifices, A = π × (diameter/2)². Convert to square feet if needed.

Q3: Why is the 448.83 factor included?
A: This converts the result from cubic feet per second to gallons per minute (GPM).

Q4: What affects the discharge coefficient?
A: Orifice shape, edge sharpness, Reynolds number, and the ratio of orifice to pipe diameter.

Q5: Can I use this for gases?
A: This formula works for incompressible fluids. For gases, additional factors must be considered.