Finding the flow rate through an open-end pipe

Click For Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the flow rate through a 15 mm diameter, 20-meter-long pipe with 5 bar static pressure. Participants explore the complexities of estimating flow rates due to head loss, which is dependent on the flow rate itself, and propose iterative methods using orifice flow principles and the Darcy-Weisbach equation. Initial estimates suggest flow rates around 12.5 m³/hr, but calculations using different methods yield values closer to 3.1 m³/hr to 4.25 m³/hr, highlighting discrepancies in viscosity and friction factor assumptions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of accurate Reynolds number and friction factor calculations, as well as the need for iterative approaches to reconcile differences in results. Ultimately, the group seeks to refine their calculations and validate their findings against established fluid dynamics principles.
  • #31
Chestermiller said:
Well the Darcy friction factor is 4x the fanning friction factor, so you decide.

Great catch, I got sloppy with my friction factors and wasn't distinguishing between Fanning and Darcy.

Here's the updated equation set:
upload_2017-2-2_15-53-2.png


And the results:
upload_2017-2-2_15-56-8.png


Looks like this is about as accurate a calculation as I can provide given the parameters known? Thanks @Chestermiller and @JBA , I learned a good deal in this thread!
 

Attachments

Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #32
I thought of one more possible error- the water main's pressure will probably be specified at gauge pressure, meaning the discharge pressure P2 would be zero, not 1 atm (gauge pressure of zero).

That increases the flow a bit, see here:
upload_2017-2-2_16-13-21.png


I also tried a quick check by comparing calculated flow rates against a hose discharge chart here: http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/water-discharge-hose-d_1524.html. The flow rates calculated by my sheet appear to be right in-line with the values from this chart.

Calculated values from my sheet (100 ft length for all):
  • 1/8" hose, 100 psi: 0.25 gpm
  • 1/2" hose, 40 psi: 6.38 gpm
  • 1/2" hose, 100 psi: 10.75 gpm
  • 3/4" hose, 40 psi: 19.02 gpm
  • 3/4" hose, 100 psi: 32.03 gpm
  • 6" hose, 10psi: 1965 gpm
  • 6" hose, 60 psi: 5202 gpm
Compare to chart from EngineeringToolBox.com:
water-discharge-hose-diagram.png
 

Attachments

Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 38 ·
2
Replies
38
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
  • · Replies 31 ·
2
Replies
31
Views
4K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
3K