What are the unknown variables in the flowrate equation?

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The discussion revolves around converting a flowrate equation from imperial to metric units, specifically aiming to express it in standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM) and ultimately in cubic meters per minute (m3/min). The user seeks assistance in understanding the variables in a cost equation related to compressor operation, particularly the unknown factors 0.35 and 0.007. Additionally, a rule-of-thumb is mentioned, stating that a 1 psig reduction in compressor output pressure results in approximately a 0.5% reduction in power consumption, prompting curiosity about the origin of this statistic. The user expresses frustration over the lack of responses and seeks further clarification on these technical points. Overall, the thread highlights challenges in flowrate calculations and cost estimations in compressor operations.
Scott Vidicik
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Hello friends!

I got this flowrate equation I wish to translate, into metric system, but somehow I find it hard to do.

It is as follows:

M (lb/s) = A x C x P / √(R)

A: Area (inches)
C: Flow coefficient
P: Pressure (psi)
R: Temperature (Rankine)

So, to get this into SCFM I modify the equation with gas density of air
0.7494 lb/ft3 and 60s/min so I get

V (SCFM) = A x P x C x 60 / [√(R) x 0.7494]
this gives me SCFM. I could ofcourse just go from SCFM to m3/min, but that wouldn't be as awesome as having a formula where you could put in your data in metric.

Any help would be really really helpful.
Feel free to ask if there's anything unclear. Thanks a lot!
 
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I find it hard to believe that neither the American nor European members can help me out here :)
 
Bumping it for the last time.

If no one are able to help me, do you have any suggestions for where I could find some?

Thanks in advance! :)
 
I found the answer. Feel free to ask if interested.

Now I got another probem!

I found this equation, but I don't understand it.

P/0.1 x Flow x Hours x 0.35 x 0.007 x cost.

P is in bar, so by dividing by 0.1 we get MPa.
Flow is in L/sec
Hours means operating hours for a compressor.
0.35 is some unknown variable, so is 0.007.
Cost is cost per kwh.

So I get

MPa x L/sec x Hours x 0.35 x 0.007 x € = total cost of a pressure drop.

What the heck is 0.35 and 0.007 values for? I haven't given any other input than what I've said.

Thanks a lot in advance!

EDIT:
There also seems to be a rule-of-thumb which claims that for every 1 psig reduction in compressor output pressure, compressor power consumption will be reduced by approximately 0.5%. How did they find this number?
 
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