Pipe Line Velocity Calculator

Velocity Formula:

\[ v = \frac{Q}{\pi \times \left(\frac{d}{2}\right)^2} \]

Velocity (v): m/s

1. What is a Pipe Line Velocity Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the fluid velocity in a pipe based on the flow rate and pipe diameter.

Purpose: It helps engineers, plumbers, and fluid system designers ensure proper flow characteristics in piping systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ v = \frac{Q}{\pi \times \left(\frac{d}{2}\right)^2} \]

Where:

\( v \) — Velocity (meters per second, m/s)
\( Q \) — Flow rate (cubic meters per second, m³/s)
\( d \) — Pipe diameter (meters, m)
\( \pi \) — Pi constant (approximately 3.1416)

Explanation: The flow rate is divided by the cross-sectional area of the pipe (πr² where r = d/2) to determine the average velocity.

3. Importance of Velocity Calculation

Details: Proper velocity calculation ensures efficient system operation, prevents erosion from high velocities, and ensures sufficient flow at low velocities.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the flow rate in m³/s and pipe diameter in meters. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical velocity range for water in pipes?
A: For water, typical velocities are 0.5-2.5 m/s in supply lines and 1.5-3.5 m/s in drainage systems.

Q2: How does pipe diameter affect velocity?
A: For a given flow rate, velocity increases as pipe diameter decreases (inverse square relationship).

Q3: What if my pipe diameter is in millimeters?
A: Convert to meters by dividing by 1000 before entering (e.g., 50 mm = 0.05 m).

Q4: Does this calculate average or maximum velocity?
A: This calculates the average velocity across the pipe cross-section.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: This gives theoretical average velocity. Actual velocity varies due to factors like pipe roughness and fluid viscosity.