Compressed Air Flow Through Pipe Calculator

Flow Rate Formula:

\[ Q = A \times v \]

Flow Rate (m³/s):

1. What is a Compressed Air Flow Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the volumetric flow rate of compressed air through a pipe based on cross-sectional area and velocity.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine air flow requirements for pneumatic systems and piping design.

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 (square meters, m²)
\( v \) — Velocity (meters per second, m/s)

Explanation: The flow rate is calculated by multiplying the pipe's internal cross-sectional area by the air velocity.

3. Importance of Air Flow Calculation

Details: Proper air flow estimation ensures adequate system performance, prevents pressure drops, and helps select appropriate pipe sizes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the pipe's cross-sectional area in m² and the air velocity in m/s. For circular pipes, area = π × (diameter/2)².

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical air velocity in compressed air systems?
A: Recommended velocities are typically 6-9 m/s for branch lines and 9-15 m/s for main distribution lines.

Q2: How do I calculate area for a circular pipe?
A: Use the formula A = π × r² where r is the pipe's internal radius in meters.

Q3: Does this account for compressed air density changes?
A: No, this calculates volumetric flow. For mass flow, multiply by air density at operating conditions.

Q4: What's the relationship between flow rate and pipe size?
A: For a given flow rate, smaller pipes require higher velocities, which increases pressure drop.

Q5: How does temperature affect the calculation?
A: Temperature affects air density but not the volumetric flow rate calculation shown here.