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Pipe Flow Velocity Formula:
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Pipe flow velocity is the speed at which fluid flows through a pipe, measured in feet per second. It's a critical parameter in fluid dynamics that affects pressure drop, energy consumption, and system efficiency in piping systems.
The calculator uses the pipe flow velocity formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula converts flow rate from gallons per minute to cubic feet per second and divides by the cross-sectional area to determine velocity.
Details: Proper flow velocity is essential for efficient pipe system design. Too low velocity can cause sediment deposition, while too high velocity increases friction losses and energy costs.
Tips: Enter flow rate in gallons per minute and cross-sectional area in square feet. For circular pipes, area = π × (diameter/2)². All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is the typical flow velocity range for water pipes?
A: For water systems, typical velocities range from 2-8 feet per second, with 4-6 fps being optimal for most applications.
Q2: How do I calculate cross-sectional area for circular pipes?
A: For circular pipes: A = π × (diameter/2)². Remember to convert diameter from inches to feet if necessary.
Q3: Why is the conversion factor 448.8?
A: 448.8 converts gallons per minute to cubic feet per second (1 gallon = 0.133681 cubic feet, 1 minute = 60 seconds, so 1 GPM = 0.133681/60 = 0.002228 cfs, inverse is 448.8).
Q4: What happens if velocity is too high?
A: Excessive velocity causes increased pressure drop, erosion, water hammer, noise, and higher pumping costs.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for other fluids?
A: Yes, but the formula assumes water-like fluids. For viscous fluids, additional factors like Reynolds number should be considered.