Flow and Pressure Calculator

Flow Velocity and Flow Rate Formulas:

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

Inlet Pressure (P₁):

psi

Outlet Pressure (P₂):

psi

Fluid Density (ρ):

lb/ft³

Pipe Area (A):

ft²

Flow Velocity (V): ft/s

Flow Rate (Q): GPM

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1. What is a Flow and Pressure Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines fluid flow velocity and volumetric flow rate based on pressure differential, fluid density, and pipe cross-sectional area.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians analyze fluid systems, design piping networks, and troubleshoot flow issues.

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:

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

Explanation: The first equation calculates velocity from pressure difference using Bernoulli's principle, while the second converts velocity to flow rate.

3. Importance of Flow Calculations

Details: Accurate flow calculations ensure proper system design, prevent pipe erosion from excessive velocity, and verify pump sizing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter pressure values (P₁ > P₂ for meaningful results), fluid density (default 62.4 lb/ft³ for water), and pipe area. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the 144 factor in the equation?
A: This converts psi (lb/in²) to lb/ft² (1 ft² = 144 in²).

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 pipe velocity range?
A: For water, 2-8 ft/s is common, with 4-6 ft/s being optimal for most applications.

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

Q5: Does this work for gases?
A: Only for incompressible fluids. Gases require more complex compressible flow equations.