Can I Measure Total Pressure with a Thin Pipe Instead of a Pitot Tube?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of using a thin pipe to measure total pressure in a flow, specifically in the context of measuring the total pressure of a flame, as an alternative to a pitot tube.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether any thin piece of pipe could effectively measure total pressure, suggesting that the smoothness of the interior is important.
  • Another participant clarifies that typical pitot tubes measure dynamic pressure, which is used to determine fluid speed, and questions if total pressure is indeed what is needed.
  • A participant expresses intent to use a thin steel tube for measuring flame speed while avoiding exposure of the pitot tube to the flame.
  • There is a general caution about the care needed for instruments when measuring in potentially hazardous environments.
  • A link to a product related to pressure measurement is shared, possibly as a suggestion for alternatives.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether a thin pipe can substitute for a pitot tube in measuring total pressure, and there are differing views on the nature of the measurement required.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions about the accuracy of using a thin pipe versus a pitot tube and the specific requirements for measuring total pressure versus dynamic pressure.

yangshi
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Since pitot tubes measure total pressure from the flow ramming into the total pressure hole, could I use any thin piece of pipe facing the flow (given that it's smooth on the inside) to measure total pressure? Trying to think of ways not to use my pitot tube to measure the total pressure of a flame. Thanks!
 
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Normaly there is no flow in a pitot tube, so the smooth schould be in the opening of the tube.
It's just a question of accurasy in the messure.

Is it really the total pressure you want ?
A typical pitot tube are used to result in the dynamik pressure whitch gives you speed / flow of the fluid messured.
 
Thanks for the reply. So OK, I'll use a thin steel tube then. And yes, I'm trying to find the flame speed and have a static port set up, but I don't want to expose my pitot tube to the flame.
 
That's right, take care of the instruments.
 
volu-probe-pitot-airflow-measurment-traverse-probe.png


http://www.airmonitor.com/products/volu-probe-traverse-probes/
 

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