Water Flow Rate from a Tank: Geometry or Level?

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SUMMARY

The water flow rate from a tank is primarily determined by the pressure head, size of the opening, and shape of the opening, rather than the geometrical shape of the tank itself. The formula V=Cd (2gh)^1/2 illustrates that the flow rate is influenced by the height of the water level (h) and the discharge coefficient (Cd). While the tank's geometry does not affect the instantaneous flow rate, it does impact the time required to empty the tank. Therefore, tank size and geometry play a role in the overall drainage time.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fluid dynamics principles
  • Familiarity with the Bernoulli equation
  • Knowledge of flow rate calculations
  • Basic grasp of tank geometry types (spherical, rectangular, cylindrical)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Bernoulli equation and its applications in fluid flow
  • Explore the concept of discharge coefficients (Cd) in fluid mechanics
  • Learn about the effects of tank geometry on drainage time
  • Study flow rate calculations for different opening shapes and sizes
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, fluid dynamics researchers, and anyone involved in designing or analyzing water storage and drainage systems will benefit from this discussion.

polezero
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Hello guys,

I want to know whether the water flow rate from a tank depends on the geometrical shape of the tank (for instance sperical, rectangular, cylindrical) etc or it just depends on the water level in the tank. Thanx.
 
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Well if the flow is through a (relatively) small opening, the instantaneous flow rate is dependent on the pressure head, size of opening, and shape of opening.
V=Cd (2gh)^1/2
Q=VA
So tank geometry doesn't come into play. Time to empty would be affected by tank size & geometry.
 

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