Gas Pipe Flow Rate Calculator

Gas Pipe Flow Rate Equation:

\[ Q = 1350 \times \sqrt{ \left( \frac{\Delta P}{L} \right) \times \left( \frac{D^5}{SG} \right) } \]

Pressure Drop (ΔP):

PSI

Pipe Length (L):

feet

Pipe Diameter (D):

inches

Specific Gravity (SG):

(dimensionless)

Flow Rate (Q):

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1. What is the Gas Pipe Flow Rate Equation?

The gas pipe flow rate equation calculates the volumetric flow rate of gas through a pipe based on pressure drop, pipe dimensions, and gas properties. It's essential for designing and analyzing gas distribution systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the gas pipe flow rate equation:

\[ Q = 1350 \times \sqrt{ \left( \frac{\Delta P}{L} \right) \times \left( \frac{D^5}{SG} \right) } \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Flow rate (cubic feet per hour)
\( \Delta P \) — Pressure drop (PSI)
\( L \) — Pipe length (feet)
\( D \) — Pipe diameter (inches)
\( SG \) — Specific gravity (dimensionless)

Explanation: The equation accounts for the relationship between pressure drop, pipe geometry, and gas density to determine flow capacity.

3. Importance of Gas Pipe Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculation is crucial for proper sizing of gas pipes, ensuring adequate gas supply to appliances, maintaining system safety, and optimizing energy efficiency in gas distribution systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter pressure drop in PSI, pipe length in feet, pipe diameter in inches, and specific gravity (air = 1.0). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is specific gravity in gas flow calculations?
A: Specific gravity is the ratio of gas density to air density at standard conditions. Natural gas typically has SG ≈ 0.6, propane ≈ 1.5.

Q2: How does pipe diameter affect flow rate?
A: Flow rate increases dramatically with diameter (D⁵ relationship). Doubling diameter increases flow capacity by 32 times.

Q3: When is this equation most accurate?
A: Best for turbulent flow in straight, smooth pipes at moderate pressures. Less accurate for very low pressures or complex piping systems.

Q4: What factors can affect actual flow rates?
A: Pipe roughness, fittings, valves, temperature variations, and elevation changes can significantly impact actual flow rates.

Q5: Can this be used for liquid flow calculations?
A: No, this equation is specifically for compressible gases. Liquid flow uses different equations accounting for fluid incompressibility.