1. What is a Head Pressure to PSI Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts water head height in feet to pressure in pounds per square inch (psi).

Purpose: It helps engineers, plumbers, and technicians determine the static water pressure at the base of a column of water.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P_{psi} \) — Pressure in pounds per square inch (psi)
• \( h_{ft} \) — Height of water column in feet
• 0.433 — Conversion factor (psi per foot of water)

Explanation: Each foot of water height creates approximately 0.433 psi of pressure at its base.

3. Importance of Head Pressure Calculation

Details: Accurate pressure calculations are essential for designing water systems, sizing pipes, selecting pumps, and ensuring system safety.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter the height of the water column in feet. The calculator will automatically compute the pressure in psi.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 0.433?
A: This comes from the weight of water (62.4 lb/ft³) divided by 144 (in²/ft²), resulting in ~0.433 psi per foot.

Q2: Does this work for other liquids?
A: No, this is specific to water. For other liquids, multiply by their specific gravity.

Q3: Is this static or dynamic pressure?
A: This calculates static pressure only. Dynamic pressure would include flow velocity effects.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: Very accurate for pure water at standard conditions (4°C, 1 atm).

Q5: What about temperature effects?
A: Water density changes slightly with temperature, but for most practical applications, 0.433 is sufficient.