Medium Velocity Water Spray Nozzle Calculator

Flow Rate Formula:

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

Discharge Coefficient (C_d):

Nozzle Area (A):

ft²

Pressure Drop (ΔP):

psi

Density (ρ):

lb/ft³

Flow Rate (Q):

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1. What is a Medium Velocity Water Spray Nozzle Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the flow rate (in gallons per minute) through a medium velocity water spray nozzle based on key hydraulic parameters.

Purpose: It helps engineers, fire protection specialists, and irrigation designers determine nozzle performance for various applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

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

Where:

\( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute)
\( C_d \) — Discharge coefficient (dimensionless)
\( A \) — Nozzle area (square feet)
\( \Delta P \) — Pressure drop across nozzle (psi)
\( \rho \) — Fluid density (pounds per cubic foot)

Explanation: The formula calculates flow rate based on Bernoulli's principle, accounting for nozzle characteristics and fluid properties.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate estimation ensures proper system design, adequate water coverage, and efficient operation of spray systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the discharge coefficient (default 0.8), nozzle area in square feet, pressure drop in psi, and fluid density (default 62.4 lb/ft³ for water). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical discharge coefficient (C_d)?
A: For medium velocity nozzles, C_d typically ranges from 0.7 to 0.9, with 0.8 being a common default value.

Q2: How do I calculate nozzle area?
A: For circular nozzles, A = π × (diameter/2)². Convert diameter to feet for this calculator.

Q3: Why is the density of water 62.4 lb/ft³?
A: This is the standard density of water at room temperature. Adjust for other fluids or temperatures.

Q4: What's the 448.83 conversion factor for?
A: This converts the result from cubic feet per second to gallons per minute (1 ft³/s = 448.83 GPM).

Q5: What pressure range is this calculator valid for?
A: Medium velocity nozzles typically operate between 20-100 psi, but the formula works for any positive pressure.