Calculate Pump Pressure from Flow Rate

Pump Pressure Formula:

\[ \Delta P = \frac{8 \times \mu \times L \times Q}{\pi \times r^4} + \text{losses} \]

Fluid Viscosity (μ):

Pa·s

Pipe Length (L):

Flow Rate (Q):

m³/s

Pipe Radius (r):

Additional Losses:

Pump Pressure (ΔP):

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1. What is Pump Pressure Calculation?

Definition: This calculator estimates the pressure required to pump fluid through a pipe based on the Hagen-Poiseuille equation.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine the pumping requirements for fluid systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \Delta P = \frac{8 \times \mu \times L \times Q}{\pi \times r^4} + \text{losses} \]

Where:

\( \Delta P \) — Pressure drop (Pascals)
\( \mu \) — Dynamic viscosity (Pa·s)
\( L \) — Pipe length (meters)
\( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
\( r \) — Pipe radius (meters)
\( \text{losses} \) — Additional pressure losses (Pa)

Explanation: The formula calculates laminar flow pressure drop in circular pipes, with an option to add additional system losses.

3. Importance of Pump Pressure Calculation

Details: Accurate pressure calculation ensures proper pump selection, system design, and energy efficiency in fluid transport systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the fluid viscosity, pipe length, flow rate, pipe radius, and any additional losses. All values except losses must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the viscosity of water?
A: At 20°C, water has a viscosity of about 0.001 Pa·s. Viscosity decreases with temperature.

Q2: Does this work for turbulent flow?
A: No, this formula is for laminar flow only (Re < 2000). For turbulent flow, use the Darcy-Weisbach equation.

Q3: What are typical additional losses?
A: Losses include fittings, valves, elevation changes, and other system components not accounted for in the basic formula.

Q4: Why is radius to the 4th power?
A: Pressure drop is extremely sensitive to pipe diameter - small diameter changes create large pressure differences.

Q5: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent SI units: meters, seconds, and Pascals for accurate results.