Pressure Drop Through Pipe Calculator

Pressure Drop Formula:

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

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): Pa

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1. What is a Pressure Drop Through Pipe Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the pressure loss (ΔP) 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:

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

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, pipe dimensions, fluid properties, and flow velocity. All values must be > 0. Water density defaults to 1000 kg/m³.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: What's a typical friction factor value?
A: For smooth pipes and turbulent flow, f ≈ 0.02-0.04. For rough pipes, it can be higher.

Q3: Does this include minor losses?
A: No, this calculates only major (friction) losses. Add minor losses from fittings separately.

Q4: What units does this calculator use?
A: The calculator uses SI units (meters, kg, seconds) with results in Pascals.

Q5: Can I use this for gases?
A: Yes, but ensure you use the correct density for your gas at operating conditions.