1. What is a Pipe Velocity Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the velocity of fluid flowing through a pipe based on the flow rate and pipe radius.

Purpose: It helps engineers, plumbers, and fluid system designers understand fluid dynamics in piping systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The flow rate is divided by the pipe's cross-sectional area (πr²) to determine the average fluid velocity.

3. Importance of Pipe Velocity Calculation

Details: Proper velocity calculation ensures efficient system design, prevents erosion, and maintains optimal flow conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical pipe velocity range?
A: For water systems, 0.5-3 m/s is common, with 1-2 m/s often being optimal.

Q2: How do I calculate flow rate if I only know diameter?
A: Radius = diameter ÷ 2. Use diameter measurement in meters.

Q3: Does this work for any fluid?
A: Yes, the formula works for any incompressible fluid, though viscosity effects aren't accounted for.

Q4: What if my pipe isn't circular?
A: This calculator assumes circular pipes. For other shapes, different area calculations are needed.

Q5: How does velocity relate to pressure?
A: Higher velocities generally mean higher pressure drops due to friction (Bernoulli's principle).

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