1. What is a GPM to CFS Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts flow rate from gallons per minute (GPM) to cubic feet per second (CFS).

Purpose: It helps engineers, hydrologists, and water management professionals convert between these common flow rate units.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q_{cfs} \) — Flow rate in cubic feet per second (ft³/s)
• \( Q_{gpm} \) — Flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM)
• 448.83 — Conversion factor (gallons per minute to cubic feet per second)

Explanation: The conversion factor 448.83 comes from the relationship between gallons and cubic feet, and minutes and seconds.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Conversion

Details: Many engineering calculations require consistent units, and converting between GPM (common in pumps) and CFS (common in open channel flow) is frequently needed.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter the flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM). The value must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 448.83?
A: It comes from 1 cubic foot = 7.48052 gallons and 1 minute = 60 seconds (7.48052 × 60 ≈ 448.83).

Q2: When would I need to convert GPM to CFS?
A: When comparing pump capacities (GPM) with stream/river flows (CFS) or when working with equations that require CFS units.

Q3: How precise is this conversion?
A: Very precise - the conversion factor is accurate to six decimal places (448.8311688).

Q4: What's a typical GPM value for residential water systems?
A: Typical home water pressure provides 5-10 GPM, while whole-house systems might be 15-20 GPM.

Q5: What does CFS represent in real-world terms?
A: 1 CFS is about 450 GPM, or roughly the flow of a small creek (about 1 foot deep and 1 foot wide flowing at 1 ft/s).