1. What is the Orifice Flow Equation?

The orifice flow equation calculates the volumetric flow rate of fluid through an orifice plate. It is based on Bernoulli's principle and accounts for energy losses through the discharge coefficient.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the orifice flow equation:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
• \( C_d \) — Discharge coefficient (unitless)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area of orifice (m²)
• \( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (m/s²)
• \( h \) — Head or pressure difference (m)

Explanation: The equation relates flow rate to the square root of the head difference, with the discharge coefficient accounting for flow contraction and energy losses.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculation through orifices is essential for fluid system design, flow measurement, process control, and hydraulic engineering applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter discharge coefficient (typically 0.6-0.8 for sharp-edged orifices), area in square meters, gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s² on Earth), and head in meters. All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical discharge coefficient value?
A: For sharp-edged circular orifices, C_d is typically 0.60-0.65. The value depends on orifice geometry and Reynolds number.

Q2: How is orifice area calculated?
A: For circular orifices, A = π × (d/2)² where d is the orifice diameter.

Q3: What units should be used?
A: Use consistent SI units: meters for length, square meters for area, m/s² for gravity, and m³/s for flow rate.

Q4: When is this equation applicable?
A: The equation works well for incompressible fluids with turbulent flow through sharp-edged orifices.

Q5: What are common applications?
A: Orifice plates are widely used for flow measurement in pipes, water distribution systems, and industrial processes.