1. What is a Flow Calculator Through Pipe?

Definition: This calculator estimates the volumetric flow rate of a fluid through a pipe using the Hagen-Poiseuille equation.

Purpose: It helps engineers and scientists determine fluid flow rates in laminar flow conditions, important for pipe system design and analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Hagen-Poiseuille equation:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
• \( r \) — Pipe radius (m)
• \( \Delta P \) — Pressure difference (Pa)
• \( \mu \) — Dynamic viscosity (Pa·s)
• \( L \) — Pipe length (m)

Explanation: The flow rate is directly proportional to the pressure difference and the fourth power of the radius, and inversely proportional to viscosity and pipe length.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculations are essential for designing efficient piping systems, predicting fluid behavior, and ensuring proper system operation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the pipe radius in meters, pressure difference in Pascals, dynamic viscosity (default 0.001002 Pa·s for water at 20°C), and pipe length in meters. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the limitations of this equation?
A: The Hagen-Poiseuille equation applies only to laminar flow (Re < 2100) in long, straight, circular pipes with Newtonian fluids.

Q2: How does pipe radius affect flow rate?
A: Flow rate is proportional to the fourth power of the radius - doubling the radius increases flow 16 times!

Q3: What's a typical viscosity value for water?
A: Water at 20°C has μ ≈ 0.001002 Pa·s. The default value represents this common condition.

Q4: Can I use this for turbulent flow?
A: No, this equation is for laminar flow only. For turbulent flow, you'd need the Darcy-Weisbach equation.

Q5: Why is the result in scientific notation sometimes?
A: For very small flow rates, the calculator may display results in scientific notation for readability.