1. What is Brake Horsepower of a Pump?

Definition: Brake horsepower (BHP) is the actual horsepower delivered to the pump shaft, accounting for the pump's efficiency.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine the power requirements for pumping systems and select appropriate motors.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( BHP \) — Brake horsepower
• \( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute, GPM)
• \( H \) — Total head (feet)
• \( \rho \) — Fluid density (pounds per gallon)
• \( \eta \) — Pump efficiency (0-1)

Explanation: The formula calculates the power required to move a specific flow rate against a given head, adjusted for the pump's efficiency.

3. Importance of Brake Horsepower Calculation

Details: Accurate BHP calculation ensures proper motor sizing, energy efficiency, and prevents overloading or underutilization of equipment.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the flow rate (GPM), total head (ft), fluid density (default 8.34 lb/gal for water), and pump efficiency (default 0.85). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between BHP and WHP?
A: WHP (Water Horsepower) is the theoretical power needed, while BHP includes the pump's efficiency (BHP = WHP / η).

Q2: Why is 3960 in the formula?
A: It's a conversion factor when using GPM, feet, and lb/gal units (1 HP = 3960 GPM·ft·lb/gal per minute).

Q3: What's a typical pump efficiency?
A: Centrifugal pumps typically range from 0.7-0.9 (70-90%), but check manufacturer specifications.

Q4: How do I find total head?
A: Total head is the sum of static head, friction head, and pressure head in the system.

Q5: Does this account for motor efficiency?
A: No, this is pump BHP. For motor power, divide BHP by motor efficiency.