Calculate GPM From PSI

Flow Rate Formula:

\[ Q = C_v \times \sqrt{\frac{P}{SG}} \]

Flow Rate (Q):

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1. What is the GPM from PSI Calculation?

The GPM (Gallons Per Minute) from PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) calculation determines the flow rate of a fluid through a valve or orifice based on pressure differential and flow coefficient. This is essential for hydraulic system design and fluid dynamics analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the flow rate formula:

\[ Q = C_v \times \sqrt{\frac{P}{SG}} \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM)
\( C_v \) — Flow coefficient (dimensionless)
\( P \) — Pressure differential in PSI
\( SG \) — Specific gravity of the fluid (relative to water)

Explanation: The formula calculates flow rate based on the square root relationship between pressure and flow, adjusted for the fluid's specific gravity.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculation is crucial for proper valve sizing, pump selection, pipeline design, and ensuring efficient fluid transport in industrial, plumbing, and HVAC systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the flow coefficient (C_v), pressure in PSI, and specific gravity of the fluid. For water, specific gravity is 1.0. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the flow coefficient (C_v)?
A: The flow coefficient represents the flow capacity of a valve or orifice - the number of gallons per minute of water that will flow through with a 1 PSI pressure drop.

Q2: How does specific gravity affect the calculation?
A: Higher specific gravity fluids (denser than water) will have lower flow rates at the same pressure, while lighter fluids will flow more readily.

Q3: What are typical C_v values?
A: C_v values range from less than 1 for small valves to over 1000 for large industrial valves, depending on size and design.

Q4: Is this formula accurate for all fluids?
A: The formula works best for Newtonian fluids with similar viscosity to water. For highly viscous fluids, additional corrections may be needed.

Q5: Can this be used for gas flow calculations?
A: This specific formula is designed for liquid flow. Gas flow calculations require different formulas that account for compressibility effects.