Flow rate of a pipe - calculation

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating flow rate in a pipe, emphasizing the relationship between flow rate, velocity, and cross-sectional area. Participants clarify that the formula for flow rate does not require pressure loss and should instead relate volumetric flow rate to average speed and area. There is confusion regarding the correct equation, with a reminder that velocity is inversely proportional to pipe area. The terms "flow" and "flow rate" are discussed, noting that "volumetric flow rate" is a more precise term than "mass flow rate." Accurate unit conversion is highlighted as crucial for proper calculations.
AnneX
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Homework Statement
It is not an assignment but a problem I came across while studying for a quiz
Relevant Equations
See below, I inserted it, not sure if it applies to this problem though
81FB4876-899D-47B6-83DF-0A482683B012.jpeg


So, I actually do not know, if the formula given applies to this problem or not, so I wanted to check
 
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That formula looks like it is relating the flow rate to the pressure loss; you don't need that for the given problem. Can you write an equation relating flow rate, velocity, and area? That's all you need to do here.

I think that's what you are doing in the last two lines but you should write out the equation.
 
So, average speed equals volumetric flow rate times area? Just a bit confused, coz it was stated, that I have to find the flow rate
 
The answer choices are in m/s.
 
AnneX said:
So, average speed equals volumetric flow rate times area?
No, if you write this out showing the units (m^3/sec and m^2) you will see it cannot be, but maybe you can figure out the right equation.
 
AnneX said:
So, average speed equals volumetric flow rate times area? Just a bit confused, coz it was stated, that I have to find the flow rate
Velocity is directly proportional to the volume per unit of time that flows inside the pipe.
The bigger the cross area of the pipe, the slower the flow.
Be careful with the conversion of units.
 
4457D99C-3A28-4DE2-9AC6-8B85BFE69F9E.jpeg

So, I guess that is the equation I was looking for?
 
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What is the difference between flow and flow rate?
 
  • #10
In US English they are used interchangeably, though I think "flowrate" is more correct. If you are translating from another language be careful (I see how you write your "ones" :wink: )

"Volumetric flowrate" is even better. It distinguishes from "mass flowrate" which could be kg/sec, or pounds per hour, or any other MASS/TIME depending on convention for the application.
 
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  • #11
Thanks, and yeah the one is just a straight line in the U.S. - right? But the fact that I am using the metric system also kind of gives it away, so ;)
 
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