Two flow lines (pipes) meging into one

In summary, using two flow meters and two manual valves is the most accurate way to mix the acid and water.
  • #1
smims
7
0
I got two flow lines at 90 degree angle, Line A carrying acid and line B carrying water, each with 1 inch diameter, merging at point P. The third line C beginning at point P, also 1" diameter, should carry 90% water and 10% acid. I came up with option 1 but not sure how to achieve the same using the Option 2 or 3.

Option (1) Using two flow meters and two valves. Install two manual valves, one on A line, and another on C line. Install two flow-meters such that each line has one flow-meter but at the upstream of these valves. Now fully open the valve on B line, check the flow-meter reading, and calculate 10% of this flow. Open the valve on A line slowly until the flow-meter reads 10%. (Of course I could do the same on B line).

Option (2) Using two pressure gauges and two manual valves.
Option (3) Using one pressure gauge and one flow meter with two manual valves.

What's the most economic option considering the cost of a pressure gauge being $100 and flow meter being $2000, and the flow resistance being insignificant? Pls explain the procedure. Thanks.
 
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  • #2
How consistent is the supply pressure to each of the two supply flow lines?
 
  • #3
Under option 1 opening valve A will likely affect the flow going through valve B.
 
  • #4
Using two flow meters is the only way you can be assured of setting the correct mixture; but, even then unless you have very close control on the inlet pressures of both feed lines, and one valve on one line you will still be at risk of varying the mixture percentage if there is any change in the supply pressure of either line unless you have continuous flow rate monitoring and control.

Trying to adjust your mixture using only valves without flow meters will not work because, apart of measuring the quality of the third line discharge while making the adjustments, you have no way of determining when you have attained the correct valve(s) position.

On the other hand if you can be absolutely assured of continuous equal supply pressures on both lines then you have a fourth option of placing a flow orifice in the discharge of each line with the acid line orifice having flow rating 10% of that of the of the water line orifice.

The ultimate factor in your selection of how you control your mixing is the quality requirements of your finished mixture. If a high quality product consistency is required then the only real solution to your problem is an automated chemical mixing valve.
 
  • #5
JBA said:
On the other hand if you can be absolutely assured of continuous equal supply pressures on both lines then you have a fourth option of placing a flow orifice in the discharge of each line with the acid line orifice having flow rating 10% of that of the of the water line orifice.

Of course. The forth option didn't cross my mind. I would now weigh my options between this and the original one. Thanks a lot.
 

1. What is the purpose of merging two flow lines into one?

The purpose of merging two flow lines is to combine the flow of fluids from two separate pipes into a single pipe. This can help to increase the overall flow rate and efficiency of the system.

2. How is the merging of two flow lines accomplished?

The merging of two flow lines is typically accomplished using a T-junction, where the two incoming pipes are connected to the top of the T and the single outgoing pipe is connected to the bottom. This allows the fluids to flow together and merge into a single stream.

3. What factors should be considered when merging two flow lines into one?

Several factors should be considered when merging two flow lines, including the flow rates and pressures of the incoming pipes, the size and material of the pipes, and the desired flow rate and pressure of the outgoing pipe. It is also important to consider any potential changes in flow dynamics or turbulence that may occur after merging the two lines.

4. What are the potential advantages of merging two flow lines into one?

Merging two flow lines into one can have several potential advantages, such as increasing the overall flow rate and efficiency of the system, reducing the number of pipes required, and simplifying the overall system design. It can also help to minimize pressure drops and improve the uniformity of flow.

5. Are there any potential drawbacks or challenges to merging two flow lines into one?

One potential drawback of merging two flow lines into one is that it can create flow imbalances, where one pipe may have a higher flow rate than the other. This can result in unequal distribution of fluids and may require additional design considerations to address. Additionally, merging two flow lines may also increase the risk of clogging or blockages if the pipes are not properly sized or if there are changes in flow dynamics.

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