1. What is a Flow Rate Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the volumetric flow rate of a fluid based on the cross-sectional area of flow and the average velocity.

Purpose: It's essential for engineers, plumbers, and anyone working with fluid systems to calculate how much fluid passes through a point per unit time.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the fundamental flow rate formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area (m²)
• \( V \) — Flow velocity (m/s)

Explanation: The flow rate is simply the product of the area through which the fluid flows and the average velocity of the fluid.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculations are critical for designing piping systems, irrigation systems, HVAC systems, and many industrial processes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the cross-sectional area in square meters and the flow velocity in meters per second. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What units does this calculator use?
A: The calculator uses metric units (m² for area, m/s for velocity, m³/s for flow rate).

Q2: Can I use this for gases as well as liquids?
A: Yes, the formula works for any fluid (liquid or gas) as long as you have the correct cross-sectional area and velocity.

Q3: How do I measure flow velocity?
A: Velocity can be measured with flow meters or calculated from pressure differences, depending on the system.

Q4: What if my pipe isn't circular?
A: For non-circular pipes, calculate the cross-sectional area using the appropriate geometric formula for the shape.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: This provides theoretical maximum flow rate. Real-world factors like friction, turbulence, and viscosity may reduce actual flow rates.