Calculate Flow Rate Through Pipe

Flow Rate Formula:

\[ Q = A \times v \]

Flow Rate (m³/s):

1. What is Flow Rate Through a Pipe?

Definition: Flow rate (Q) is the volume of fluid that passes through a given surface per unit time.

Purpose: This calculator helps engineers, plumbers, and fluid system designers determine the volumetric flow rate in pipes based on cross-sectional area and flow velocity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ Q = A \times v \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Flow rate (cubic meters per second, m³/s)
\( A \) — Cross-sectional area of the pipe (square meters, m²)
\( v \) — Flow velocity (meters per second, m/s)

Explanation: The flow rate is simply the product of the pipe's cross-sectional area and the average velocity of the fluid.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculations are essential for proper pipe sizing, pump selection, and system design in plumbing, HVAC, and industrial fluid systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the pipe's cross-sectional area (for circular pipes: A = πr²) and the fluid velocity. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I calculate area for a circular pipe?
A: Use A = π × (diameter/2)² or A = πr² where r is the radius.

Q2: What's a typical flow velocity in pipes?
A: For water, typical velocities are 0.5-3 m/s in plumbing systems, depending on application.

Q3: Can I use this for gases?
A: Yes, the formula works for any fluid, but ensure consistent units (m² and m/s for m³/s result).

Q4: How does pipe material affect flow rate?
A: Material affects friction losses and thus velocity, but this calculator assumes you know the velocity.

Q5: What if my pipe isn't circular?
A: Calculate the cross-sectional area appropriately for the shape (rectangle, oval, etc.).