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Flow Rate Equation:
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The PSI to liters per minute calculator estimates fluid flow rate from pressure using Bernoulli's principle and the continuity equation. It converts pressure energy to kinetic energy to determine flow velocity and subsequently flow rate.
The calculator uses the flow rate equation:
Where velocity (v) is derived from pressure using Bernoulli's equation: \[ v = \sqrt{\frac{2P}{\rho}} \]
Where:
Explanation: The equation converts pressure energy to kinetic energy, calculating velocity which is then multiplied by cross-sectional area to determine volumetric flow rate.
Details: Accurate flow rate calculation is crucial for hydraulic system design, irrigation planning, industrial processes, and fluid transport systems to ensure proper system performance and efficiency.
Tips: Enter pressure in PSI and cross-sectional area in square meters. All values must be valid positive numbers. The calculation assumes water as the fluid (density = 1000 kg/m³).
Q1: Why use Bernoulli's equation for this calculation?
A: Bernoulli's principle relates pressure energy to kinetic energy, allowing conversion of pressure to flow velocity, which is essential for determining flow rate.
Q2: What factors affect the accuracy of this calculation?
A: Fluid viscosity, pipe roughness, temperature effects on density, and system losses can affect accuracy. This provides an ideal theoretical flow rate.
Q3: Can this be used for gases as well as liquids?
A: The basic principle applies, but gas calculations require different density values and may need to account for compressibility effects at higher pressures.
Q4: How does pipe size affect flow rate?
A: Larger cross-sectional area allows higher flow rates at the same pressure, while smaller areas result in higher velocities but lower volumetric flow rates.
Q5: What are typical flow rates for common applications?
A: Household water systems: 5-15 L/min, garden irrigation: 10-30 L/min, industrial processes: 50-500+ L/min depending on specific requirements.