Calculate Air Flow Force for Piping System Setup

In summary: Bernoulli's equation and conservation of mass can be applied to this piping system setup. The conservation of mass equation is A1v1+A2v2+A3v3+A4v4 = A5v5, where A is the area and v is the velocity. The Bernoulli's equation is P1+P2+P3+P4+(1/2)p(v1^2+v2^2+v3^2+v4^2)+pg(z1+z2+z3+z4) = P5+(1/2)p(v5^2)+pg(z5), where P is the pressure, v is the velocity, p is the density, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and
  • #1
bigdads
3
0
See attachment for piping system setup.

Question: How much FORCE will the block feel from the air flowing through the two holes in the lower pipe?

I have no idea how to calculate this. Does Bernoulli's equation apply anywhere here?
 

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  • FluidProblem1.bmp
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  • #2
it looks just like a problem straight out of my fluid mechanics textbook
bernoulli's should apply
and conservation of masses
mass of all inputs - mass of output = total mass change in the system
and for this system
mass in = mass out
 
  • #3
So you have 4 inlets & 1 outlet...

Conservation of mass??:

A1v1+A2v2+A3v3+A4v4 = A5v5

unknowns: v1, v2, v3, v4

A=area
v=velocity

Bernoulli??:

P1+P2+P3+P4+(1/2)p(v1^2+v2^2+v3^2+v4^2)+pg(z1+z2+z3+z4) = P5+(1/2)p(v5^2)+pg(z5)

P=pressure
v = velocity
p = density
g = acceleration due to gravity
z = height

Assumptions: P1=P2=P3=P4=atmospheric pressure

unknowns: v1, v2, v3, v4

2 equations, 4 unknowns...How can this be solved?

How can I use this to get the force on the block?
 
  • #4
You're not going to be able to cover the entire network in one swoop. Start at the node where the two pipes meet and apply the continuity equation: [tex]Q = Q_1 + Q_2[/tex] where the total flow is the flow from the fan. That will give you the two flow rates (a function of the diameters). Now that you have the flow rate at that node, you can now go to Bernoulli and continue back up the pipe to calculate the pressure drop around those holes.

Just out of curiosity, when you say "force on the block" you are referring to a lower pressure that will (I hate to use this term) "suck" on the block? In other words, you want to know if you'll have enough flow to pick up the block?
 
  • #5
Just out of curiosity, when you say "force on the block" you are referring to a lower pressure that will (I hate to use this term) "suck" on the block? In other words, you want to know if you'll have enough flow to pick up the block?

Yes
 

1. How do I calculate the air flow force for a piping system setup?

To calculate the air flow force for a piping system setup, you will need the following information: the air flow rate, the diameter of the pipe, and the density of the air. The formula for calculating air flow force is: F = (0.5 x density x air flow rate2 x pipe diameter2). Make sure to use consistent units for all three variables.

2. What is the importance of calculating air flow force for a piping system setup?

Calculating air flow force is important for ensuring the proper functioning of a piping system. It helps determine the amount of force the air will exert on the pipes, which can affect the stability and durability of the system. It also allows for proper sizing and selection of pipes and fittings to avoid any potential damage or accidents.

3. What factors can affect the air flow force in a piping system?

There are several factors that can affect the air flow force in a piping system, including the air flow rate, pipe diameter, pipe material, pipe length, and any obstructions or bends in the pipe. Changes in these factors can result in changes to the air flow force and should be taken into consideration when calculating it.

4. Can the air flow force be too high for a piping system?

Yes, the air flow force can be too high for a piping system. If the force exceeds the strength of the pipes or the capacity of the fittings, it can lead to leaks, bursts, or other damages to the system. It is important to calculate the air flow force accurately and make sure it is within the recommended limits for the specific piping system.

5. Are there any tools or software available for calculating air flow force for piping systems?

Yes, there are various tools and software available for calculating air flow force for piping systems. Some examples include online calculators, spreadsheet templates, and specialized software programs. These tools can help simplify the calculation process and provide more accurate results.

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