Fluid Flow Through an Orifice Calculator

Fluid Flow Formula:

\[ Q = C \times A \times \sqrt{\frac{2 \times \Delta P}{\rho}} \]

Discharge Coefficient (C):

Orifice Area (A):

m²

Pressure Difference (ΔP):

Fluid Density (ρ):

kg/m³

Flow Rate (Q):

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1. What is a Fluid Flow Through Orifice Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the volumetric flow rate of fluid through an orifice based on the orifice characteristics and fluid properties.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians in fluid systems design, HVAC, plumbing, and process engineering to calculate flow rates through restrictions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the orifice flow equation:

\[ Q = C \times A \times \sqrt{\frac{2 \times \Delta P}{\rho}} \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
\( C \) — Discharge coefficient (dimensionless)
\( A \) — Cross-sectional area of orifice (m²)
\( \Delta P \) — Pressure difference across orifice (Pa)
\( \rho \) — Fluid density (kg/m³)

Explanation: The flow rate depends on the orifice size, pressure difference, fluid density, and the discharge coefficient which accounts for flow contraction and energy losses.

3. Importance of Orifice Flow Calculation

Details: Accurate flow calculations are essential for system design, performance prediction, and troubleshooting in various engineering applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the discharge coefficient (typically 0.6-0.65 for sharp-edged orifices), orifice area, pressure difference, and fluid density (1000 kg/m³ for water). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the discharge coefficient (C)?
A: It's a dimensionless factor (0-1) that accounts for energy losses and flow contraction through the orifice. Typical values range from 0.6 to 0.65 for sharp-edged orifices.

Q2: How do I determine the orifice area?
A: For circular orifices, calculate as \( π \times r^2 \) where r is the radius. For other shapes, use the appropriate geometric formula.

Q3: What units should I use?
A: The calculator uses SI units: meters for length, Pascals for pressure, and kg/m³ for density. Convert other units before input.

Q4: Does this work for compressible fluids?
A: This calculator is for incompressible fluids. For gases, additional factors like compressibility and expansion must be considered.

Q5: What affects the accuracy of this calculation?
A: Orifice shape, edge sharpness, Reynolds number, and upstream/downstream conditions all affect accuracy. Use appropriate C values for your specific case.