Branched-line pumping system curve help

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the system curve for a branched-line pumping system with parallel pipes. The user seeks clarification on whether the friction head remains constant across branches and if the total system curve can be derived by calculating the system curve for individual branches and multiplying by the number of branches. The user has provided specific parameters, including the measurement of pipe lengths, fittings, and flow rates for branches A and B, while noting that the static head is zero. The inquiry emphasizes the need for accurate methods to determine the overall system curve in such configurations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fluid dynamics principles, specifically in relation to pipe flow.
  • Knowledge of friction loss calculations in piping systems.
  • Familiarity with parallel piping systems and their characteristics.
  • Basic skills in interpreting system curves and pump performance data.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for calculating friction loss in branched piping systems.
  • Learn about the principles of parallel pump operation and flow distribution.
  • Study how to construct and analyze system curves for multiple branches.
  • Explore software tools for hydraulic modeling, such as EPANET or HEC-RAS.
USEFUL FOR

Students, engineers, and professionals involved in fluid mechanics, hydraulic design, and pump system optimization will benefit from this discussion.

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Hi all,

I am a student trying to figure out the system curve for a pipe line system. I know how to calculate friction loss for just one flow, but not for a system of branched flow!

I read a short article online saying that for parallel pipes the friction head is the same for all branches, so in my understanding that I only need to figure out the system curve for one line and then multiply by the number of lines to obtain the total system curve? but I am not sure if the "parallel pipes" system is the same one that I am trying to work on!

I have a quick simplified sketch attached here. In the drawing, the two pumps are running in parallel and the flow is delivered unevenly to 5 destination places. The static head is zero as in there is no elevation difference between the suction side and any of the destination places. I only have the means to measure pipe length, fittings and current flow rate for branch A and B, as well as the pressure at Destination A and B in the drawing here. Is the process for figuring out the system curve the same as described in the last paragragh, which I figure out the system for A and B, add them together and multiply by 4?

Wsotz


Please help me how to figure all the system curve!

Thank you!
 
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