Flow Rate Formula:
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Definition: This calculator estimates the volumetric flow rate through a pipe based on pressure difference, pipe dimensions, and fluid viscosity.
Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine fluid flow rates in piping systems using the Hagen-Poiseuille equation.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The flow rate is directly proportional to the pressure difference and the fourth power of the radius, and inversely proportional to viscosity and pipe length.
Details: Accurate flow rate estimation is crucial for designing piping systems, ensuring proper fluid delivery, and calculating pump requirements.
Tips: Enter pipe radius in meters, pressure difference in Pascals, fluid viscosity in Pa·s (default 0.001 for water), and pipe length in meters. All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is the Hagen-Poiseuille equation?
A: It describes laminar flow through a cylindrical pipe, valid for Newtonian fluids with constant viscosity.
Q2: What's a typical viscosity value for water?
A: Water at 20°C has a viscosity of about 0.001 Pa·s, which is the default value in this calculator.
Q3: Does this work for turbulent flow?
A: No, this equation is only valid for laminar flow (Re < 2100 typically). Different equations are needed for turbulent flow.
Q4: Why does radius have such a large effect?
A: Flow rate depends on r⁴, so doubling the radius increases flow by 16 times. This is because both area and velocity profile are affected.
Q5: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent SI units: meters for dimensions, Pascals for pressure, and Pa·s for viscosity to get m³/s flow rate.