Gas Pipe Flow Calculator

Gas Flow Rate Formula:

\[ Q = \sqrt{ \frac{\Delta P \times d^5}{f \times L \times \rho} } \times C \]

Pressure Drop (ΔP):

Pipe Diameter (d):

Friction Factor (f):

Pipe Length (L):

Gas Density (ρ):

kg/m³

Flow Constant (C):

Gas Flow Rate (Q):

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1. What is a Gas Pipe Flow Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the volumetric flow rate of gas through a pipe based on pressure drop, pipe dimensions, friction factor, gas density, and a flow constant.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians design and analyze gas piping systems for various applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ Q = \sqrt{ \frac{\Delta P \times d^5}{f \times L \times \rho} } \times C \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
\( \Delta P \) — Pressure drop (Pa)
\( d \) — Pipe internal diameter (m)
\( f \) — Darcy friction factor (dimensionless)
\( L \) — Pipe length (m)
\( \rho \) — Gas density (kg/m³)
\( C \) — Flow constant (typically 0.408 for SI units)

Explanation: The formula calculates flow rate based on the energy balance between pressure drop and frictional losses in the pipe.

3. Importance of Gas Flow Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate estimation ensures proper system design, meets demand requirements, and maintains safe operating conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters with appropriate units. Default values are provided for friction factor (0.02), gas density (1.2 kg/m³ for air), and flow constant (0.408).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical friction factor for gas pipes?
A: For turbulent flow in smooth pipes, 0.02 is common. For rough pipes, it may range from 0.03 to 0.05.

Q2: How do I determine gas density?
A: Use the ideal gas law (ρ = P/(RT)) or reference tables. Air at STP is about 1.2 kg/m³.

Q3: What affects the flow constant?
A: The constant depends on unit system (0.408 for SI, 0.117 for imperial) and may vary with different formula versions.

Q4: Does this work for compressible flow?
A: This simplified version works best for small pressure drops (<10% of absolute pressure). For larger drops, use more complex compressible flow equations.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: Accuracy depends on input parameters. For precise designs, consider additional factors like fittings, elevation changes, and temperature effects.