1. What is the Centrifugal Pump Flow Equation?

The centrifugal pump flow equation calculates the volumetric flow rate (Q) of a pump based on its impeller diameter (D), rotational speed (n), head (H), and gravitational acceleration (g). This fundamental equation helps in pump selection and performance analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the centrifugal pump flow equation:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
• \( D \) — Impeller diameter (m)
• \( n \) — Rotational speed (rev/s)
• \( H \) — Head (m)
• \( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²)

Explanation: The equation relates the pump's physical characteristics to its flow capacity, accounting for the energy imparted by the rotating impeller.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculation is essential for proper pump selection, system design, and performance evaluation in various industrial and commercial applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter impeller diameter in meters, rotational speed in revolutions per second, and head in meters. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is pump head?
A: Pump head is the height to which a pump can raise a fluid, expressed in meters of fluid column.

Q2: How does impeller diameter affect flow rate?
A: Flow rate increases with the square of the impeller diameter, making it a highly influential parameter.

Q3: What are typical flow rates for centrifugal pumps?
A: Flow rates vary widely from less than 0.001 m³/s for small pumps to over 10 m³/s for large industrial pumps.

Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: This is a simplified equation that assumes ideal conditions. Actual flow rates may vary due to efficiency losses, viscosity effects, and other real-world factors.

Q5: How does speed affect pump performance?
A: Flow rate is directly proportional to rotational speed, while head increases with the square of the speed.