How Does Pipe Area Change Affect Fluid Velocity and Pressure?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on fluid dynamics in a circular pipe experiencing a change in cross-sectional area, specifically where the exit area is one quarter of the inlet area. The inlet pressure is 20 kN/m² above atmospheric, while the exit pressure is atmospheric, and the exit velocity is 15 m/s. Using Bernoulli's equation and the continuity equation (A₁v₁ = A₂v₂), participants aim to calculate the inlet velocity and mass flow rate of water through the pipe. The calculations involve determining the inlet velocity based on the given parameters and applying the relevant fluid dynamics principles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Bernoulli's equation and its applications in fluid mechanics.
  • Knowledge of the continuity equation for fluid flow (A₁v₁ = A₂v₂).
  • Basic principles of fluid dynamics, including pressure and velocity relationships.
  • Familiarity with units of pressure, velocity, and flow rate in SI units.
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the inlet velocity using the continuity equation with the given exit velocity and area ratios.
  • Determine the mass flow rate of water through the pipe using the inlet velocity and cross-sectional area.
  • Explore the implications of varying pipe diameter on fluid velocity and pressure using Bernoulli's equation.
  • Investigate real-world applications of fluid dynamics principles in engineering and design.
USEFUL FOR

Fluid mechanics students, engineers working in hydraulics, and professionals involved in pipe design and analysis will benefit from this discussion.

Brabs23
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A circular pipe has a fall of 4m and narrows so that, at exit, its area is one quarter that at inlet. The pressure at inlet is 20kN/m^2 above atmospheric and at exit, where the velocity is 15m/s, the pressure is atmospheric.

Calculate the inlet velocity and mass flow rate of water through the pipe per unit cross-sectional area at inlet.

Relevant Equations: Bernoullis

I've got this so far (if it is correct!):

4 + (20 x 10³)/10³ x g + V²/2g = 15²/2g + h

I'm not sure how to use the area values given to find out the velocity .. I presume I need to use Q = AV?
 
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Continuity equation:
A_{1}v_{1} = A_{2}v_{2}

And Bernoulli is all you need.
 

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