1. What is a Fuel Pump Flow Rate Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the flow rate of a fuel pump based on horsepower, efficiency, head, and fuel density.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine the required flow rate for fuel systems in various applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute)
• \( HP \) — Horsepower
• \( \eta \) — Pump efficiency (dimensionless, 0-1)
• \( H \) — Head (feet)
• \( \rho_f \) — Fuel density (pounds per gallon)

Explanation: The formula calculates the flow rate by considering the power input, pump efficiency, and the work needed to move the fuel against gravity and friction.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Proper flow rate estimation ensures adequate fuel supply to engines, prevents pump cavitation, and optimizes system performance.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the horsepower, pump efficiency (default 0.8), head in feet, and fuel density (default 6.7 lb/gal for diesel). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the constant 3960 in the formula?
A: This is a conversion factor that relates horsepower to foot-pounds per minute (1 HP = 3960 ft-lb/min).

Q2: What's a typical pump efficiency value?
A: Most fuel pumps have efficiencies between 0.7-0.9 (70-90%), with 0.8 being a common default.

Q3: How do I determine the head (H)?
A: Head is the total dynamic head which includes vertical lift, pipe friction losses, and pressure differences.

Q4: What are typical fuel densities?
A: Gasoline ≈ 6.0 lb/gal, Diesel ≈ 6.7-7.1 lb/gal, Jet A ≈ 6.7 lb/gal (varies with temperature).

Q5: Does this account for system losses?
A: The formula accounts for pump efficiency but not additional system losses which should be considered separately.