1. What is the Fluid Flow Rate Equation?

Definition: This calculator computes the volumetric flow rate (Q) in gallons per minute (GPM) based on fluid velocity and pipe cross-sectional area.

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute)
• \( V \) — Fluid velocity (feet per second)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area (square feet)
• 448.83 — Conversion factor (cubic feet to gallons and seconds to minutes)

Explanation: The velocity multiplied by area gives flow in cubic feet per second, which is then converted to GPM.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculations ensure proper system design, pump selection, and compliance with engineering standards.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the fluid velocity in ft/s and pipe cross-sectional area in ft². For circular pipes, area = π × (diameter/2)².

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 448.83?
A: It combines 7.48052 (gallons per cubic foot) and 60 (seconds per minute): 7.48052 × 60 ≈ 448.83.

Q2: What's a typical velocity for water in pipes?
A: 4-8 ft/s for supply lines, 2-5 ft/s for drainage. Higher velocities increase friction losses.

Q3: How do I calculate area for non-circular pipes?
A: Use appropriate geometry formulas (width×height for rectangular, etc.).

Q4: Does this account for fluid viscosity?
A: No, this is for ideal flow. Viscous fluids may require additional calculations.

Q5: Can I use this for gases?
A: Only for incompressible flow. Gases require compressibility factors at higher velocities.