[Fluid Dynamics] Losses in branched pipes etc.

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on understanding pressure losses in branched pipes, confirming key principles of fluid dynamics. Total pressure is defined as the sum of static and dynamic pressure, with pressure gauges measuring only static pressure. The continuity equation is applied, indicating that the inlet flow rate equals the sum of flow rates in the branches. The impact of minor losses due to branching and bends is acknowledged, requiring adjustments to pressure calculations using the Darcy-Weisbach equation. It is clarified that pressure gauges at each branch will not reflect these minor losses, resulting in equal readings across branches despite different flow conditions.
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Hi all,

I'd like to confirm my understanding on some things regarding pressure losses in a branched pipe for a project.

Referring to the picture below I grabbed off from the net. (assume no elevation chan

Would appreciate if someone can correct me if I'm wrong anywhere.

1) Total pressure (Pt) = Static pressure (Ps) + Dynamic pressure (Pd)

2) A pressure gauge connected to the side of the pipe (with flowing fluid) only measures static pressure

3) Q(in) = Q(1) + Q(2) + Q(3) [by continuity]

Assuming no minor losses,


4) V(in) = 3*V(1) = 3*V(2) = 3*V(3) [for A(1) = A(2) = A(3) = A(in)]

5) Pt(in) = Pt(1) = Pt(2) = Pt(3)

6) So for Pd = rho*V²/2: Pd(in) = 9*Pd(1) = 9*Pd(2) = 9*Pd(3)

7) Hence by Bernoulli's, to balance the pressures (energies) : 9*Ps(in) = Ps(1) = Ps(2) = Ps(3)

8) My pressure gauges at each of the branch will read at a pressure 9 times higher than that at the main branch

Assuming minor losses due to the branching and bends

9) Solving the same way as previously, but now I need to substract pressure due to minor loss from Pd at each branches

10) Use Darcy-Weisbach, find friction factor and use equivalent length

11) I can individually look at a branch to do this [i.e. Inlet to outlet1 or inlet to outlet2 etc.]

12) Substract pressure loss in (11) to each of the 3 branch to account for the total pressure difference

13) However my gauge will still read static pressures only, so will not pick up these minor losses (Hence reading at branch 1 will still be equal to that at branch 2)Am I correct in the 13 steps I posted? Thank you!
 

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