How Do Velocity and Pipe Diameter Affect Water Flow in Gravity-Fed Systems?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the velocity and pipe diameter for a gravity-fed water system transporting 20 m³/h of water at 20 degrees Celsius over a 15-meter elevation drop and a 50-meter pipe length. The user initially estimated the velocity to be 9.81 m/s based on gravitational acceleration, but this value is incorrect for flow rate calculations. The correct approach involves applying the principles of fluid dynamics, specifically the Bernoulli equation and the continuity equation, to determine the actual flow velocity and required pipe diameter.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fluid dynamics principles, including Bernoulli's equation
  • Knowledge of the continuity equation in fluid flow
  • Familiarity with units of measurement for flow rate and velocity
  • Basic concepts of gravity-fed systems and hydraulic calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the application of Bernoulli's equation in gravity-fed systems
  • Learn how to calculate flow velocity using the continuity equation
  • Explore the impact of pipe diameter on flow rate and velocity
  • Investigate friction losses in pipe systems and their effect on flow
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, hydrologists, and students studying fluid mechanics or hydraulic systems will benefit from this discussion, particularly those involved in designing or analyzing gravity-fed water systems.

birddog
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Hello there,

Im trying to figure this assignment question and I have hit hurdle. Can someone please help with figuring out what the velocity and pipe diameter will be??

Question:
In a plant 20m3(cubic)/h of water at 20 degrees C is to flow via gravity from a storage tank to another one. the difference in elevation is 15m and total pipe length is 50m.

I thought it would be 9.81 m/s because of gravity but that seems too fast.
Can someone please help.

Thanks in advance!
 
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