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Flow Velocity Formula:
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The GPM to ft/s conversion calculates the velocity of fluid flow in feet per second based on the flow rate in gallons per minute and the pipe diameter in inches. This is essential for hydraulic calculations in piping systems.
The calculator uses the flow velocity formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula converts volumetric flow rate to linear velocity by considering the cross-sectional area of the pipe.
Details: Flow velocity calculation is crucial for designing piping systems, ensuring proper flow characteristics, preventing erosion, and optimizing pump selection in various engineering applications.
Tips: Enter flow rate in GPM and pipe diameter in inches. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will provide the velocity in feet per second.
Q1: What is the typical range for flow velocity in pipes?
A: Typical velocities range from 2-8 ft/s for water systems, with higher velocities potentially causing erosion and lower velocities risking sedimentation.
Q2: Why is the constant 0.408 used in the formula?
A: The constant 0.408 comes from unit conversion factors: 1 gallon = 0.133681 ft³ and 1 minute = 60 seconds, combined with the area calculation for a circular pipe.
Q3: Can this formula be used for any fluid?
A: This formula works for water and other fluids with similar density. For significantly different densities, additional factors may be needed.
Q4: What pipe diameters are suitable for this calculation?
A: The formula works for standard pipe diameters typically used in plumbing and hydraulic systems, from small tubing to large diameter pipes.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation provides theoretical velocity. Actual velocity may vary due to pipe roughness, fittings, and other system characteristics.