Pipe Pressure Drop Calculator Online

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

Flow Velocity (V):

m/s

Pressure Drop (ΔP):

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1. What is a Pipe 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 designers determine the pressure loss in piping systems for proper pump sizing and system design.

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)
\( V \) — Flow 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: Accurate pressure drop calculations ensure proper pump selection, energy efficiency, and system performance in piping systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the friction factor (default 0.02 for turbulent flow), pipe dimensions, fluid properties, and flow velocity. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I determine the friction factor?
A: For turbulent flow, use Moody chart or Colebrook equation. For laminar flow (Re < 2000), f = 64/Re.

Q2: What's a typical velocity range for water in pipes?
A: 1-3 m/s for water in most applications to balance pressure drop and erosion concerns.

Q3: Does this include fittings and valves pressure drop?
A: No, this calculates straight pipe only. Use equivalent length method for fittings.

Q4: What density should I use for water?
A: 1000 kg/m³ for water at 4°C. Adjust for temperature (998 kg/m³ at 20°C).

Q5: How do I convert the result to other units?
A: 1 Pa = 0.000145 psi, or 1 kPa = 0.01 bar. Multiply accordingly.