1. What is Flow Velocity?

Definition: Flow velocity is the speed at which a fluid flows through a given cross-sectional area.

Purpose: It's crucial in fluid dynamics for designing pipes, channels, and understanding fluid behavior in various engineering applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( V \) — Flow velocity (meters per second)
• \( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (cubic meters per second)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area (square meters)

Explanation: The flow rate is divided by the cross-sectional area to determine how fast the fluid is moving through that area.

3. Importance of Flow Velocity Calculation

Details: Proper velocity calculation ensures efficient system design, prevents pipe erosion, and maintains desired flow characteristics.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the flow rate in m³/s and cross-sectional area in m². Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical flow velocity in pipes?
A: For water, typical velocities are 1-3 m/s in supply pipes and 0.5-1 m/s in drainage systems.

Q2: How do I measure cross-sectional area?
A: For circular pipes, use \( A = \pi r^2 \) where r is the radius. For rectangular channels, use width × height.

Q3: Does this work for gases as well as liquids?
A: Yes, the formula applies to any fluid, though gas calculations may need additional factors for compressibility.

Q4: What if my flow rate is in liters per minute?
A: Convert to m³/s by dividing L/min by 60,000 (1 m³/s = 60,000 L/min).

Q5: Why is velocity important in pipe design?
A: Velocity affects pressure drop, energy requirements, and can cause erosion if too high or sedimentation if too low.