1. What is a Pipe Diameter Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the required pipe diameter based on fluid viscosity, pipe length, flow rate, and pressure difference.

Purpose: It helps engineers and designers select appropriate pipe sizes for fluid transport systems while maintaining desired pressure conditions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( D \) — Pipe diameter (meters)
• \( \mu \) — Dynamic viscosity (Pascal-seconds)
• \( L \) — Pipe length (meters)
• \( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (cubic meters/second)
• \( \Delta P \) — Pressure difference (Pascals)

Explanation: The formula derives from the Hagen-Poiseuille equation for laminar flow in pipes, solving for diameter.

3. Importance of Pipe Diameter Calculation

Details: Proper pipe sizing ensures efficient fluid transport, minimizes energy losses, and maintains required pressure conditions throughout the system.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter viscosity (default 0.001 Pa·s for water at 20°C), pipe length, flow rate, and pressure difference. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What viscosity value should I use for water?
A: Water at 20°C has viscosity of about 0.001 Pa·s. For other fluids or temperatures, consult viscosity tables.

Q2: Does this work for turbulent flow?
A: This formula is most accurate for laminar flow (Re < 2100). For turbulent flow, additional factors like roughness are needed.

Q3: How does pipe length affect diameter?
A: Longer pipes require larger diameters to maintain the same pressure drop for a given flow rate.

Q4: What's a typical pressure difference in systems?
A: This varies widely but common values range from 10,000 to 100,000 Pa (0.1 to 1 bar) for many applications.

Q5: Can I use this for gases?
A: The formula works for incompressible fluids. For gases, compressibility effects must be considered.