Fuel Nozzle Flow Rate Calculator

Flow Rate Formula:

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

Discharge Coefficient (C_d):

Nozzle Area (A):

ft²

Pressure Differential (ΔP):

psi

Fuel Density (ρ_f):

lb/ft³

Flow Rate (Q):

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1. What is a Fuel Nozzle Flow Rate Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the flow rate (in gallons per minute) through a fuel nozzle with an integrated meter based on nozzle characteristics and fluid properties.

Purpose: It helps engineers, technicians, and fuel system designers determine the expected flow rates for proper system design and operation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

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

Where:

\( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute)
\( C_d \) — Discharge coefficient (dimensionless, typically 0.7-0.95)
\( A \) — Nozzle area (square feet)
\( \Delta P \) — Pressure differential (psi)
\( \rho_f \) — Fuel density (pounds per cubic foot)

Explanation: The formula calculates the theoretical flow rate through an orifice, adjusted by the discharge coefficient and converted to GPM.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate estimation ensures proper fuel system performance, prevents nozzle cavitation, and helps meet regulatory requirements for fuel dispensing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the discharge coefficient (default 0.85), nozzle area in ft², pressure differential in psi, and fuel density in lb/ft³ (default 45.6 for gasoline). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical discharge coefficient for fuel nozzles?
A: Most fuel nozzles have C_d values between 0.8 and 0.9, depending on nozzle design.

Q2: How do I calculate nozzle area?
A: For circular nozzles, A = π × (diameter/2)². Remember to convert to square feet.

Q3: What's the density of diesel fuel?
A: Diesel typically has a density of about 53.1 lb/ft³ at 60°F.

Q4: Why is the 448.83 factor used?
A: This converts the result from cubic feet per second to gallons per minute (1 ft³/s = 448.83 GPM).

Q5: How does temperature affect the calculation?
A: Fuel density changes with temperature. For precise calculations, use density values corrected for actual temperature.