Gas Pipe Flow Calculator

Gas Pipe Flow Equation:

\[ Q = \sqrt{ \frac{\Delta P \times D^5}{f \times L \times SG} } \times K \]

Pressure Drop (ΔP):

inches water column

Pipe Diameter (D):

inches

Friction Factor (f):

dimensionless

Pipe Length (L):

feet

Specific Gravity (SG):

dimensionless

Constant (K):

dimensionless

Gas Flow Rate (Q):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Gas Pipe Flow Equation?

The gas pipe flow equation calculates the volumetric flow rate of gas through a pipe based on pressure drop, pipe dimensions, friction factor, specific gravity, and a constant. This equation is essential for designing and analyzing gas distribution systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the gas pipe flow equation:

\[ Q = \sqrt{ \frac{\Delta P \times D^5}{f \times L \times SG} } \times K \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Gas flow rate (cubic feet per hour)
\( \Delta P \) — Pressure drop (inches water column)
\( D \) — Pipe diameter (inches)
\( f \) — Friction factor (dimensionless)
\( L \) — Pipe length (feet)
\( SG \) — Specific gravity (dimensionless)
\( K \) — Constant (dimensionless)

Explanation: The equation calculates flow rate based on the relationship between pressure drop, pipe geometry, and fluid properties.

3. Importance of Gas Flow Calculation

Details: Accurate gas flow calculation is crucial for designing efficient pipeline systems, ensuring proper pressure delivery, and optimizing energy consumption in gas distribution networks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters with appropriate units. Ensure all values are positive and valid. The friction factor depends on pipe material and flow conditions, while specific gravity relates to the gas density relative to air.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical friction factor for gas pipes?
A: Friction factors typically range from 0.01 to 0.05 depending on pipe material, age, and flow conditions. Smooth pipes have lower friction factors.

Q2: How does pipe diameter affect flow rate?
A: Flow rate is highly sensitive to diameter (D^5 relationship). Doubling the diameter increases flow capacity by approximately 32 times.

Q3: What is specific gravity for natural gas?
A: Natural gas typically has a specific gravity of 0.55 to 0.70 relative to air (SG of air = 1.0).

Q4: When is this equation most accurate?
A: The equation works best for turbulent flow conditions in straight pipes with constant diameter and minimal fittings.

Q5: How do fittings affect the calculation?
A: Fittings increase equivalent length and friction. Use equivalent length methods to account for fittings in the total length calculation.