How Does Pipe Tapering Affect Pressure and Flow Rate in Fluid Dynamics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the effects of pipe tapering on pressure and flow rate in fluid dynamics, specifically analyzing a scenario where water flows from a tank through a tapered pipe from 160 mm to 80 mm in diameter. The pressure at point A is 100 kPa and at point B is 20 kPa, with a flow rate of 4 m³/min. The calculated head loss between points A and B is 2.26 m, derived using Bernoulli’s equation and the velocity equations. The discussion also addresses the distinction between gauge pressure and absolute pressure in the context of pressure loss.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Bernoulli’s equation
  • Knowledge of fluid dynamics principles
  • Ability to calculate flow velocity using Q=Au
  • Familiarity with pressure measurements (gauge and absolute)
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  • Study the application of Bernoulli’s equation in various fluid flow scenarios
  • Learn about the implications of pipe diameter changes on flow rate and pressure
  • Research the concepts of gauge pressure versus absolute pressure in fluid systems
  • Explore advanced fluid dynamics topics such as laminar vs. turbulent flow
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Engineers, fluid dynamics students, and professionals involved in hydraulic systems design and analysis will benefit from this discussion.

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1. Water is flowing in a pipe from a tank to a nozzle. At some point (A) the pipe tapers from 160 mm diameter to 80 mm at point B over a certain length. Point A is 3 m above point B. The pressure at A is 100kPa and at B is 20kPa, both measured above the atmospheric pressure. The flow rate is 4m3min-1, and is in the direction from A to B.

Find the loss of pressure between A and B and express it as (i) head of water, (ii) gauge pressure and (iii) absolute pressure.




2. using the following equations:
Q=Au
to calculate the velocity at points A and B
Bernoulli’s equation





3. i first calculated the velocity at point A and B. Usings these in Bernoulli's equation to find head lost. Value = 2.26m
This is where i not sure gauge pressure would it be simply one take away the other. The take into account atmospheric pressure for the absolute pressure?


Many thanks for any help just to point me in the right direction.
 
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Here is some more information to show i have attempted the question. Please see attachments for calculations.
• Da=160mm Aa=0.0201m2
• Db=80mm Ab=5.0265x10-3m2
• Za = 3m
• Zb = 0m (Lowest Point Datum)
• Pa=100kPa
• Pb=20kPa
• Q = 4m3min-1 = 1/15 m3s-1
• Direction A to B

If you could please view and advise me on if this is correct or where i have gone wrong it would be most greatful. I am still not sure about the atmospheric and gauge pressure would this be the same pressure loss?

Many Thanks
 

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