Water pressure drop when 1 pipe splits into 3

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the effects of splitting a single pipe into three equal pipes on water pressure and flow rate. Participants explore the implications of this configuration on pressure distribution and potential methods to increase flow rate while managing pressure changes.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the pressure at the ends of the three equal pipes, suggesting that it may remain the same as the original pipe's pressure.
  • Another participant notes that while the flow will decrease by a factor of three due to conservation of mass, the pressure changes are influenced by resistance in the system.
  • A follow-up question asks whether it is possible to increase flow rate and decrease pressure simultaneously.
  • One participant proposes adding a pump with a higher flow rate to counteract pressure drops through the piping system.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between pressure and flow rate in the context of the pipe split, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the feasibility of increasing flow rate while decreasing pressure.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the specific resistance characteristics of the pipes or the assumptions regarding fluid dynamics involved in the scenario.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in fluid dynamics, plumbing systems, or engineering applications related to pipe flow and pressure management may find this discussion relevant.

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Hi, what happens when I have a single pipe with pressure 1bar.

I split this pipe into 3 equal pipes with equal diameter.

What will be my pressure at the ends of these 3 equal pipes ?

From what I have been reading on the internet it seems that the pressure will be the same on the 3 equal pipes .

If so how can I increase flow rate and decrease pressure on this 3 equal pipes ?

Thank you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The flow will decrease by a factor of 3 (conservation of matter), but the pressure changes depend on resistance.
 
How do I increase flow rate and decrease pressure then ?
Is it even possible ?
 
Add a pump with a higher flow rate at the pressure drops through the piping system.
 

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