1. What is the Water Flow Rate Formula Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the water flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM) based on velocity and cross-sectional area.

Purpose: It helps engineers, plumbers, and fluid system designers calculate flow rates in pipes and channels.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute, GPM)
• \( V \) — Velocity (feet per second, ft/s)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area (square feet, ft²)
• 448.83 — Conversion factor (cubic feet per second to GPM)

Explanation: The velocity is multiplied by the area to get flow in cubic feet per second, then converted to GPM.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculations are essential for proper pipe sizing, pump selection, and system design in plumbing, irrigation, and industrial applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the water velocity in ft/s and the pipe/channel cross-sectional area in ft². All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the 448.83 conversion factor?
A: It converts cubic feet per second to gallons per minute (1 ft³/s = 448.83 GPM).

Q2: How do I find the cross-sectional area?
A: For round pipes: \( A = \pi \times r² \) where r is the radius in feet.

Q3: What's a typical water velocity in pipes?
A: Residential plumbing: 4-8 ft/s; Industrial: up to 10 ft/s depending on application.

Q4: Can I use this for other liquids?
A: Yes, but the conversion factor changes based on liquid density (448.83 is for water).

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical flow; actual flow may vary due to friction, pipe roughness, and fittings.