Pipe Flow Calculator Pressure

Pipe Flow Formulas:

\[ V = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times (P_1 - P_2) \times 144}{\rho}} \] \[ Q = V \times A \times 448.83 \]

Inlet Pressure (P₁):

psi

Outlet Pressure (P₂):

psi

Fluid Density (ρ):

lb/ft³

Pipe Area (A):

ft²

Velocity (V): ft/s

Flow Rate (Q): GPM

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1. What is a Pipe Flow Calculator by Pressure?

Definition: This calculator estimates fluid velocity and flow rate in a pipe based on pressure difference, fluid density, and pipe cross-sectional area.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine flow characteristics in piping systems for design and analysis purposes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these formulas:

\[ V = \sqrt{\frac{2 \times (P_1 - P_2) \times 144}{\rho}} \] \[ Q = V \times A \times 448.83 \]

Where:

\( V \) — Fluid velocity (feet per second)
\( P_1 \) — Inlet pressure (psi)
\( P_2 \) — Outlet pressure (psi)
\( \rho \) — Fluid density (pounds per cubic foot)
\( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute)
\( A \) — Pipe cross-sectional area (square feet)

Explanation: The pressure difference drives the flow, with velocity calculated from the energy equation and flow rate derived from velocity and pipe area.

3. Importance of Pipe Flow Calculation

Details: Accurate flow calculations ensure proper system design, pump sizing, and verification of system performance.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the pressure values (P₁ > P₂), fluid density (default 62.4 lb/ft³ for water), and pipe area. All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the 144 factor in the formula?
A: This converts psi (lb/in²) to lb/ft² (1 ft² = 144 in²).

Q2: What's the 448.83 conversion factor?
A: This converts ft³/s to GPM (1 ft³/s = 448.83 GPM).

Q3: What density should I use for other fluids?
A: Use 49.2 lb/ft³ for gasoline, 78.6 lb/ft³ for seawater, or consult fluid property tables.

Q4: How do I calculate pipe area?
A: Area = π × (pipe diameter/2)² ÷ 144 (for diameter in inches) or ÷ 12² (for diameter in feet).

Q5: Does this account for friction losses?
A: No, this is for ideal flow. For real systems, consider additional pressure drop from pipe friction.