Pressure Pipe Flow Calculator

Flow Velocity and Flow Rate Formulas:

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

Upstream Pressure (P₁):

psi

Downstream Pressure (P₂):

psi

Fluid Density (ρ):

lb/ft³

Pipe Cross-Sectional Area (A):

ft²

Flow Velocity (V): ft/s

Flow Rate (Q): GPM

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1. What is a Pressure Pipe Flow Calculator?

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

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians calculate fluid flow rates in pipes for various applications like water supply, hydraulic systems, and industrial processes.

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:

\( V \) — Flow velocity (feet per second)
\( P_1 \) — Upstream pressure (psi)
\( P_2 \) — Downstream 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 determined by the Bernoulli equation and flow rate calculated from velocity and pipe area.

3. Importance of Pipe Flow Calculations

Details: Accurate flow calculations ensure proper system design, efficient operation, and help prevent issues like excessive pressure drops or inadequate flow rates.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the upstream and downstream pressures in psi, fluid density (default 62.4 lb/ft³ for water), and pipe cross-sectional area. All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What units does this calculator use?
A: The calculator uses US customary units: psi for pressure, lb/ft³ for density, ft² for area, ft/s for velocity, and GPM for flow rate.

Q2: What's the typical density for water?
A: Pure water at 60°F has a density of 62.4 lb/ft³. This value changes slightly with temperature and impurities.

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 account for friction losses?
A: This simplified calculation doesn't include friction losses, which would reduce actual flow rates in long pipes.

Q5: What's the 448.83 conversion factor?
A: This converts ft³/s to gallons per minute (1 ft³/s = 448.83 GPM).