How do you calculate the mass flow rate, volume flow rate and velocity

In summary, to calculate the mass flow rate, volume flow rate and velocity of a 6 bar compressed air supply through a 2mm tube, you will need to use principles of fluid mechanics, specifically gas dynamics. However, the given information is insufficient to solve the problem as stated and you will need to make simplifications, such as assuming a velocity of mach 1 and no pressure drop. From there, you can calculate the volume flow rate and mass flow rate using the speed of sound and air density.
  • #1
qablos
13
0
How do you calculate the mass flow rate, volume flow rate and velocity of a 6 bar compressed air supply through a 2mm tube? This is all the information I have been given. Is there any theory that could help me here? I can't seem to find much on the internet, so I have no clue where to begin, sorry.

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
This is a problem for fluid mechanics, specifically gas dynamics. However, the information you have given is insufficient to solve your problem as stated.
 
  • #3
If this is all data you have been given, you are expected to make several simplifications.

1.) Velocity equals mach 1 at given condition (if temperature is not given i'd take 288.15 K as this is standard at 0m ISA conditions)

2.) There is no pressure drop (as you cannot calculate it due to lack of data on tubes length and roughness)

So: volume_flow=speed_of_sound*(2*pi*(tube_radius˄2))
mass_flow= volume_flow*air_density
 

1. What is mass flow rate and how is it calculated?

Mass flow rate is the amount of mass passing through a given point per unit time. It is calculated by dividing the mass of a substance by the time it takes to pass through a certain point. The formula for mass flow rate is:
Mass flow rate (m) = Mass (m) / Time (t)

2. How is volume flow rate defined and how do you calculate it?

Volume flow rate is the volume of a substance that passes through a given point per unit time. It is defined as the product of the cross-sectional area and the average velocity of the substance. The formula for volume flow rate is:
Volume flow rate (V) = Cross-sectional area (A) x Average velocity (v)

3. Can you explain the relationship between mass flow rate, volume flow rate, and velocity?

The relationship between these three quantities can be described by the equation:
m = ρV
where m is the mass flow rate, ρ is the density of the substance, and V is the volume flow rate. This equation shows that mass flow rate is directly proportional to volume flow rate, and both are inversely proportional to density. This means that as mass flow rate or volume flow rate increases, the velocity of the substance must also increase, and vice versa.

4. How do I convert mass flow rate to volume flow rate?

To convert mass flow rate to volume flow rate, you will need to know the density of the substance. Once you have the density, you can use the formula:
Volume flow rate (V) = Mass flow rate (m) / Density (ρ)
This will give you the volume flow rate in units such as cubic meters per second or cubic feet per minute.

5. Are there any other factors that affect mass flow rate, volume flow rate, and velocity?

Yes, there are several other factors that can affect these quantities. Some of the most common factors include the size and shape of the container or pipe, the viscosity of the substance, and any obstructions or changes in direction in the flow path. These factors can impact the velocity and pressure of the substance, which in turn can affect the mass flow rate and volume flow rate.

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