Flow Rate Formula:
Definition: This calculator estimates the volumetric flow rate of water through a pipe based on the cross-sectional area and flow velocity.
Purpose: It helps engineers, plumbers, and fluid system designers determine the water flow capacity in piping systems.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The flow rate is simply the product of the pipe's cross-sectional area and the average velocity of the water.
Details: Accurate flow rate calculations ensure proper pipe sizing, efficient system design, and compliance with engineering standards.
Tips: Enter the pipe's cross-sectional area in m² and the water velocity in m/s. For circular pipes, area = π × (diameter/2)².
Q1: How do I calculate area for a circular pipe?
A: Use the formula A = π × r² where r is the pipe radius. For diameter, use A = π × (d/2)².
Q2: What's a typical water velocity in pipes?
A: Domestic systems: 0.5-2.5 m/s; Industrial systems: 2-5 m/s (depends on application and pipe material).
Q3: Can I use this for other liquids?
A: Yes, the formula works for any incompressible fluid, though viscosity may affect actual velocity.
Q4: How does pipe roughness affect the calculation?
A: Roughness affects velocity (via friction losses) but not the basic Q = A × v relationship.
Q5: What if my pipe isn't circular?
A: Calculate the cross-sectional area appropriately for rectangular, oval, or other pipe shapes.