Calculating Wind & Water Force: Simple Methods

In summary, wind and water force can be calculated by using the formula force = pressure x area. The main difference between wind force and water force is the medium in which they are acting. Wind and water pressure can be measured using specialized instruments, and there are various methods for calculating these forces, including using tables or charts, software, or online calculators. Wind and water force can be mitigated or controlled by designing structures to withstand these forces and incorporating natural features as buffers.
  • #1
zeroonezero
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To calculate the force of wind I use the following simple method: Speed in mph^2 x .0027 = psf. Anyone know of a simple method of calculating psf using the speed of water? Please.
 
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  • #2
zeroonezero said:
To calculate the force of wind I use the following simple method: Speed in mph^2 x .0027 = psf. Anyone know of a simple method of calculating psf using the speed of water? Please.

What is "psf"? Pounds per square foot? And what units does 0.0027 have?

Re: Your water question...

How much water? At what speed? Turbulent or laminar flow? What is the surface area you're considering?
 

FAQ: Calculating Wind & Water Force: Simple Methods

1. How do you calculate wind and water force?

Wind and water force can be calculated by using the basic formula: force = pressure x area. This means that you need to know the pressure of the wind or water and the surface area that it is acting on. Once you have these values, you can plug them into the formula to calculate the force.

2. What is the difference between wind force and water force?

The main difference between wind force and water force is the medium in which they are acting. Wind force is the force exerted by the movement of air, while water force is the force exerted by the movement of water. Both of these forces can have significant impacts on structures and objects.

3. How do you measure wind and water pressure?

Wind and water pressure can be measured using specialized instruments such as anemometers for wind and pressure gauges for water. These instruments are designed to accurately measure the pressure of the medium and provide a numerical value that can be used in calculations.

4. What are some simple methods for calculating wind and water force?

Some simple methods for calculating wind and water force include using the basic formula mentioned earlier (force = pressure x area), as well as using tables or charts that provide pre-calculated values based on wind or water speed and surface area. Another method is to use computer software or online calculators specifically designed for these calculations.

5. How can wind and water force be mitigated or controlled?

Wind and water force can be mitigated or controlled by designing structures and objects to withstand these forces, such as using materials that are strong and resistant to these elements. Other methods include building structures that can redirect or dissipate the force, using barriers or breakwaters to protect against high winds or waves, and incorporating natural features like trees or hills to act as buffers against wind force.

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