Gas Velocity in Pipe Calculator

Gas Velocity Formula:

\[ V = \frac{Q}{A \times 448.83} \]

Gas Velocity (ft/s):

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1. What is a Gas Velocity in Pipe Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the velocity of gas flowing through a pipe based on flow rate and pipe cross-sectional area.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine gas flow velocity for system design, analysis, and troubleshooting.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ V = \frac{Q}{A \times 448.83} \]

Where:

\( V \) — Gas velocity (feet per second)
\( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute)
\( A \) — Pipe cross-sectional area (square feet)
\( 448.83 \) — Conversion factor (GPM to ft³/s)

Explanation: The flow rate is converted to cubic feet per second and then divided by the pipe area to determine velocity.

3. Importance of Gas Velocity Calculation

Details: Proper velocity estimation ensures efficient system operation, prevents erosion, and helps maintain appropriate pressure drops.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the flow rate in GPM and pipe cross-sectional area in square feet. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 448.83 used in the formula?
A: This converts gallons per minute (GPM) to cubic feet per second (1 GPM = 0.002228 ft³/s, inverse is 448.83).

Q2: What's a typical gas velocity range in pipes?
A: For natural gas, typical velocities range from 20-60 ft/s depending on application and pipe size.

Q3: How do I calculate pipe cross-sectional area?
A: For circular pipes: \( A = \pi \times (D/2)^2 \) where D is diameter in feet.

Q4: Does this work for all gases?
A: The formula works for any gas when using volumetric flow rate (GPM). For mass flow rates, density must be considered.

Q5: What if I know the pipe diameter instead of area?
A: First calculate area using \( A = \pi \times r^2 \) where r is radius in feet, then use this calculator.