1. What is Flow Rate Conversion?

Flow rate conversion between cubic feet per second (ft³/s) and gallons per minute (GPM) is essential in fluid dynamics, engineering, and various industrial applications. This conversion helps professionals work with different measurement systems.

2. How Does the Conversion Work?

The conversion formula is:

Where:

• \( GPM \) — Gallons per minute
• \( ft³/s \) — Cubic feet per second
• \( 448.8311688312 \) — Conversion factor

Explanation: One cubic foot per second equals approximately 448.83 gallons per minute, based on the definition that 1 cubic foot = 7.48052 gallons and 1 minute = 60 seconds.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Conversion

Details: Accurate flow rate conversion is crucial for hydraulic engineering, water supply systems, irrigation design, pump sizing, and fluid transport calculations across different measurement standards.

4. Using the Converter

Tips: Enter the flow rate in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The value must be non-negative. The converter will automatically calculate the equivalent flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 448.8311688312?
A: This factor comes from the relationship: 1 ft³ = 7.48052 gallons and 1 minute = 60 seconds, so 1 ft³/s = 7.48052 × 60 = 448.8312 GPM.

Q2: When would I need to convert between ft³/s and GPM?
A: Common applications include water treatment plants, hydraulic calculations, pump specifications, irrigation systems, and fluid dynamics engineering projects.

Q3: What are typical flow rates in these units?
A: Small streams might flow at 10-100 ft³/s (4,488-44,883 GPM), while household water supply might be 0.01-0.1 ft³/s (4.5-45 GPM).

Q4: Is this conversion exact?
A: The conversion factor is based on standard definitions and is considered exact for practical engineering purposes.

Q5: Can I convert GPM back to ft³/s?
A: Yes, use the inverse formula: ft³/s = GPM ÷ 448.8311688312.