1. What is a Water Tank Flow Rate Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the flow rate of water through an orifice at the bottom of a tank based on the water height, orifice area, and gravity.

Purpose: It helps engineers, plumbers, and water system designers determine the flow rate for tank drainage systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Torricelli's law formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Flow rate (cubic meters per second)
• \( g \) — Acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s²)
• \( h \) — Height of water column (meters)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area of orifice (square meters)

Explanation: The formula calculates the theoretical maximum flow rate through an orifice at the bottom of a tank.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate estimation ensures proper sizing of drainage systems, prevents overflow, and helps in water storage management.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the water height in meters, orifice area in square meters, and gravity (default 9.81 m/s²). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does this account for friction losses?
A: No, this is the theoretical maximum flow. Actual flow will be less due to friction and other losses.

Q2: What's a typical orifice area?
A: This varies by application but common sizes range from 0.0001 m² (small pipes) to 0.01 m² (large drains).

Q3: Can I use this for other liquids?
A: Yes, but the formula assumes water properties. For other liquids, density and viscosity must be considered.

Q4: How does water height affect flow rate?
A: Flow rate increases with the square root of water height - double the height increases flow by √2 (about 1.41 times).

Q5: What if my orifice isn't at the bottom?
A: The formula only applies to orifices at the bottom where h is the full water column height.