1. What is Pump Brake Horsepower?

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

Purpose: It helps determine the power requirement for pumps in various fluid systems, ensuring proper pump selection and operation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula calculates the power required to move a specific fluid volume against a given head pressure, adjusted for pump efficiency.

3. Importance of BHP Calculation

Details: Accurate BHP calculation ensures proper pump sizing, prevents motor overload, and optimizes energy consumption in fluid systems.

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: Brake horsepower (BHP) is power at the pump shaft, while water horsepower (WHP) is power delivered to the fluid. BHP = WHP / efficiency.

Q2: What's a typical pump efficiency value?
A: Most pumps operate between 50-85% efficiency, with centrifugal pumps typically around 70-85% at best efficiency point.

Q3: Why is 3960 in the formula?
A: It's a conversion factor that combines unit conversions to give horsepower (1 hp = 550 ft-lb/sec).

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

Q5: What density should I use for other fluids?
A: For fluids other than water, use their specific weight (lb/gal). Example: gasoline ≈ 6.0 lb/gal, seawater ≈ 8.56 lb/gal.