1. What is Pump Hydraulic Power Calculation?

Definition: This calculator determines the hydraulic horsepower required by a pump based on flow rate, pressure, and efficiency.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians properly size pumps and understand their power requirements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( HP \) — Hydraulic power (horsepower)
• \( Q \) — Flow rate (gallons per minute, GPM)
• \( P \) — Pressure (pounds per square inch, psi)
• \( \eta \) — Pump efficiency (decimal between 0 and 1)
• 1714 — Conversion factor (1 HP = 1714 GPM·psi)

Explanation: The formula calculates the theoretical power required to move fluid at a given flow rate against a specific pressure, adjusted for pump efficiency.

3. Importance of Hydraulic Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation ensures proper pump selection, energy efficiency, and prevents motor overload.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the flow rate in GPM, pressure in psi, and pump efficiency (default 0.85 for 85%). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the efficiency factor important?
A: It accounts for energy losses in the pump. Higher efficiency means less input power is needed for the same hydraulic output.

Q2: What's a typical pump efficiency value?
A: Most pumps range from 50-85% efficiency, with centrifugal pumps typically 60-80% and positive displacement pumps 70-90%.

Q3: What if my pressure is in bars?
A: Convert to psi first (1 bar ≈ 14.5038 psi) before using the calculator.

Q4: How does this relate to motor power?
A: Motor power = Hydraulic power / (efficiency × motor efficiency). Always size motors with a safety factor.

Q5: What's the significance of 1714 in the formula?
A: It's the conversion factor between GPM·psi and horsepower (1 HP = 1714 GPM·psi).