1. What is the Flow and Pressure Equation Calculator?

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

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these equations:

Where:

• \( V \) — Fluid velocity (ft/s)
• \( P_1 \) — Inlet pressure (psi)
• \( P_2 \) — Outlet pressure (psi)
• \( \rho \) — Fluid density (lb/ft³)
• \( Q \) — Flow rate (GPM)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area (ft²)

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

3. Importance of Flow and Pressure Calculations

Details: Accurate flow calculations are essential for proper system design, pump selection, and ensuring adequate flow rates throughout piping systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter pressure values (psi), fluid density (default 62.4 lb/ft³ for water), and pipe cross-sectional area (ft²). All values must be > 0 except P₂ which can be 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the 144 factor in the equation?
A: This converts psi to psf (pounds per square foot) since 1 psi = 144 psf.

Q2: Why 448.83 in the flow rate equation?
A: This converts ft³/s to gallons per minute (GPM) since 1 ft³/s = 448.83 GPM.

Q3: 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 for your fluid.

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

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