Can I Connect Tank 1 & Tank 2 to Create a Water Level Difference?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of connecting two tanks to create a water level difference, specifically exploring the mechanics of pumps and fluid dynamics in this context. Participants inquire about the possibility of achieving a higher water level in Tank 2 compared to Tank 1, and the implications of using different types of pumps, including mechanical and hydraulic systems.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that a pump is necessary to achieve a higher water level in Tank 2 compared to Tank 1.
  • Questions arise about the existence and efficiency of non-electric, mechanical pumps, with some participants mentioning hand-cranked pumps.
  • One participant asks whether connecting two tanks will result in equal water heights if water flows into Tank 1, leading to a discussion about pressure differences and fluid dynamics.
  • Another participant introduces the concept of using a Venturi pipe to connect the tanks, questioning its effect on water levels.
  • There is a claim that all pumps require an energy source, with a reference to hydraulic rams as a potential solution that utilizes water flow as an energy input.
  • Some participants clarify that while hydraulic rams can be seen as using 'free' energy, they still require a flow of water to function.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the necessity and types of pumps required, with some agreeing that pumps are essential while others explore alternative mechanical solutions. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the efficiency and practicality of different pumping methods.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include assumptions about the definitions of pumps and energy sources, as well as the specific conditions under which the tanks are connected and filled.

Domagoj
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I am currently working on something and I would like to know something. When we connect two tanks and we have water flowing into Tank 1.
Is it possible to make a connection between Tank 1 and Tank 2 so the water level in Tank 2 is higher than water level in Tank 1?
 
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Domagoj said:
I am currently working on something and I would like to know something. When we connect two tanks and we have water flowing into Tank 1.
Is it possible to make a connection between Tank 1 and Tank 2 so the water level in Tank 2 is higher than water level in Tank 1?
Welcome to the PF.

As long as the connection includes a pump... :smile:
 
Yeah i didnt think there is any other solution except that... Are there some kind of pumps that don't use electricity (or any other imputs), something that works soley on mechanics, and are those pumps efficient in comparison with electrical pumps?
 
Domagoj said:
Yeah i didnt think there is any other solution except that... Are there some kind of pumps that don't use electricity (or any other imputs), something that works soley on mechanics, and are those pumps efficient in comparison with electrical pumps?
What's the application?
 
Domagoj said:
Yeah i didnt think there is any other solution except that... Are there some kind of pumps that don't use electricity (or any other imputs), something that works soley on mechanics, and are those pumps efficient in comparison with electrical pumps?

What do you mean by "or any other inputs"?

There are hand cranked pumps. Are they allowed?
 
there is no application...I just want to find out how things work
 
This pump doesn't use any electricity... :smile:

http://shop.australiangeographic.co.../BEBN-duncan-the-drinking-bird-outbox-web.jpg
BEBN-duncan-the-drinking-bird-outbox-web.jpg
 
I have another question that bothers me... If we have 2 tanks, Tank 1 is lower and Tank 2 is higher and they are connected. If water is flowing in Tank1, will Tank 2 also be filled and if so, are the water heights in both Tanks equal?
 
Domagoj said:
I have another question that bothers me... If we have 2 tanks, Tank 1 is lower and Tank 2 is higher and they are connected. If water is flowing in Tank1, will Tank 2 also be filled and if so, are the water heights in both Tanks equal?
If the water heights are not equal and the tanks are connected, there will be a water pressure difference that will drive water from the higher pressure (higher height) to the lower pressure, until the two heights are equal.
 
  • #10
I understand thank you...One more... If we use Venturi pipe to connect two tanks, let's say that smaller end goes in Tank 1, and bigger end goes in Tank 2. Let's say that bigger end is twice the size of smaller end of the pipe. Does that affect water levels in Tanks.
 
  • #11
Domagoj said:
I understand thank you...One more... If we use Venturi pipe to connect two tanks, let's say that smaller end goes in Tank 1, and bigger end goes in Tank 2. Let's say that bigger end is twice the size of smaller end of the pipe. Does that affect water levels in Tanks.
The change in pressure due to the Venturi effect only occurs when the liquid or gas is flowing. So it will affect how quickly the two tank pressures equalize, but won't prevent them from equalizing eventually.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venturi_effect
 
  • #12
Domagoj said:
Are there some kind of pumps that don't use electricity (or any other imputs)
Basically, no, not never ever. You cannot do work without an energy source. All the devices that appear to do that are based on some hidden source of energy (a trick) that is not obvious to the audience. If you define a pump as a device that raises the level of a fluid then all pumps need energy.
 
  • #13
sophiecentaur said:
Basically, no, not never ever. You cannot do work without an energy source. All the devices that appear to do that are based on some hidden source of energy (a trick) that is not obvious to the audience. If you define a pump as a device that raises the level of a fluid then all pumps need energy.
I was referring to something like this
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydraulic_ram
 
  • #14
Domagoj said:
I was referring to something like this
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydraulic_ram
Yes - and a hydraulic ram uses the Power of the water flowing through it. You may regard that as 'free' energy but it's still an energy input. The lower of your two tanks would have to have another outlet, allowing water flow downhill, out of it, to power the Ram.
 

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