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Orifice Flow Equation:
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The orifice flow equation calculates the flow rate through an orifice based on the pressure difference across it. This fundamental fluid dynamics formula is widely used in engineering applications for flow measurement and system design.
The calculator uses the orifice flow equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation demonstrates that flow rate is proportional to the square root of the pressure difference, with the discharge coefficient accounting for energy losses and flow characteristics.
Details: Accurate flow rate calculation is essential for designing piping systems, sizing pumps, optimizing process efficiency, and ensuring proper system operation in various industrial applications.
Tips: Enter discharge coefficient (typically 0.6-0.9 for standard orifices) and pressure drop in psi. Both values must be valid (C > 0, ΔP ≥ 0).
Q1: What is a typical discharge coefficient value?
A: For sharp-edged orifices, C is typically 0.6-0.65. For well-designed nozzles, it can reach 0.9-0.95 depending on geometry and Reynolds number.
Q2: Why does flow rate depend on the square root of pressure?
A: This relationship comes from the Bernoulli equation and conservation of energy, where velocity is proportional to the square root of the pressure difference.
Q3: What are common applications of this equation?
A: Orifice plates in pipelines, flow meters, hydraulic systems, pneumatic controls, and various fluid measurement devices across multiple industries.
Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: The equation assumes incompressible flow, constant density, and may need corrections for high viscosity fluids, compressible flow, or non-standard orifice geometries.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation method?
A: For standard conditions and properly calibrated discharge coefficients, accuracy within 2-5% can be achieved, though actual performance depends on specific installation conditions.