1. What is a Flow Rate to PSI Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the pressure drop (in psi) in a pipe system based on fluid flow rate, pipe dimensions, and fluid viscosity.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians analyze fluid systems to ensure proper pressure requirements are met for various applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Hagen-Poiseuille equation:

Where:

• \( \Delta P_{psi} \) — Pressure drop (psi)
• \( \mu \) — Dynamic viscosity (Pa·s)
• \( L \) — Pipe length (meters)
• \( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
• \( r \) — Pipe radius (meters)
• 6894.76 — Conversion factor from Pascals to psi

Explanation: The formula calculates the pressure difference needed to maintain a given flow rate through a pipe of specified dimensions.

3. Importance of Pressure Drop Calculation

Details: Understanding pressure drop is crucial for designing efficient piping systems, selecting appropriate pumps, and ensuring system performance.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Enter viscosity in Pascal-seconds (Pa·s) - for water at 20°C, use 0.001002 Pa·s
• Pipe radius should be the internal radius of the pipe
• All values must be greater than zero

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is dynamic viscosity?
A: It's a measure of a fluid's resistance to flow. Higher viscosity means more resistance.

Q2: Does this work for any fluid?
A: Yes, as long as you have the correct viscosity value for your fluid at the operating temperature.

Q3: Is this only for laminar flow?
A: Yes, this equation is specifically for laminar (smooth) flow conditions.

Q4: How does pipe radius affect pressure drop?
A: Pressure drop is inversely proportional to the fourth power of radius - small changes in radius have large effects.

Q5: What's the conversion factor 6894.76 for?
A: It converts Pascals (the SI unit of pressure) to pounds per square inch (psi).