Flow Rate Formula:
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Definition: This calculator estimates the flow rate (in gallons per minute) for a 1 horsepower water pump based on head height and pump efficiency.
Purpose: It helps engineers, plumbers, and irrigation specialists determine pump performance for water systems.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how much water a 1 HP pump can move against a specific head height at a given efficiency.
Details: Proper flow rate estimation ensures adequate water supply, correct pump sizing, and energy-efficient system design.
Tips: Enter the total dynamic head in feet and pump efficiency factor (default 0.8 for 80% efficiency). All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is total dynamic head?
A: It's the total height the pump must lift water, including vertical rise and friction losses in pipes.
Q2: What's a typical efficiency factor?
A: Most pumps operate at 50-85% efficiency (0.5-0.85). Newer pumps may exceed 0.9.
Q3: How does head affect flow rate?
A: Higher head reduces flow rate - they have an inverse relationship for a given horsepower.
Q4: Can I use this for other HP pumps?
A: For other HP, multiply the result by the pump's horsepower (e.g., 5 HP pump = 5 × Q).
Q5: What about different fluids?
A: For fluids other than water, adjust the 8.34 factor (lb/gal) for the specific fluid's weight.