Online Pressure Drop Calculator

Pressure Drop Formula:

\[ \Delta P = f \times \left( \frac{L}{D} \right) \times \left( \frac{\rho \times V^2}{2} \right) \]

Friction Factor (f):

dimensionless

Pipe Length (L):

meters

Pipe Diameter (D):

meters

Fluid Density (ρ):

kg/m³

Fluid Velocity (V):

m/s

Pressure Drop (ΔP): Pa

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1. What is a Pressure Drop Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the pressure loss in a pipe system due to friction using the Darcy-Weisbach equation.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine the pressure loss in fluid systems for proper system design and analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Darcy-Weisbach equation:

\[ \Delta P = f \times \left( \frac{L}{D} \right) \times \left( \frac{\rho \times V^2}{2} \right) \]

Where:

\( \Delta P \) — Pressure drop (Pascals)
\( f \) — Darcy friction factor (dimensionless)
\( L \) — Pipe length (meters)
\( D \) — Pipe diameter (meters)
\( \rho \) — Fluid density (kg/m³)
\( V \) — Fluid velocity (m/s)

Explanation: The equation calculates the pressure loss due to friction between the fluid and the pipe walls.

3. Importance of Pressure Drop Calculation

Details: Proper pressure drop estimation ensures adequate pump sizing, proper system operation, and energy efficiency in fluid systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the friction factor, pipe length and diameter, fluid density, and fluid velocity. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I determine the friction factor?
A: The friction factor depends on the Reynolds number and pipe roughness. For turbulent flow, use the Moody chart or Colebrook equation.

Q2: What's a typical friction factor value?
A: For turbulent flow in smooth pipes, it's typically 0.01-0.05. For rough pipes, it can be higher.

Q3: Does this include minor losses?
A: No, this calculates only the major losses due to pipe friction. Add minor losses separately for fittings and valves.

Q4: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent SI units: meters for length/diameter, kg/m³ for density, and m/s for velocity.

Q5: Can I use this for gases?
A: Yes, but for compressible gases with significant pressure drop, more complex calculations are needed.