1. What is Pump Power Calculation?

The pump power calculation determines the mechanical power required to move a fluid at a specified flow rate against a specific head, taking into account the fluid's density and the pump's efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pump power equation:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power (W)
• \( \rho \) — Fluid density (kg/m³)
• \( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²)
• \( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
• \( H \) — Head (m)
• \( \eta \) — Pump efficiency (0-1)

Explanation: The equation calculates the theoretical power required to move the fluid, then divides by the pump efficiency to get actual power requirement.

3. Importance of Pump Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for proper pump selection, motor sizing, and energy consumption estimation in fluid systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter fluid density (1000 kg/m³ for water), flow rate in m³/s, head in meters, and pump efficiency as a decimal (0.8 for 80%). All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical pump efficiency value?
A: Centrifugal pumps typically range from 60-85%, while positive displacement pumps can reach 90% efficiency.

Q2: How do I convert flow rate from L/s to m³/s?
A: Divide L/s by 1000 (1 L/s = 0.001 m³/s).

Q3: What affects pump efficiency?
A: Pump design, size, operating point relative to BEP (Best Efficiency Point), and fluid viscosity all affect efficiency.

Q4: Why is density important?
A: Power requirement is directly proportional to fluid density. Denser fluids require more power to pump.

Q5: How does head relate to pressure?
A: Head (in meters) can be converted to pressure (in kPa) by multiplying by fluid density and gravity (P = ρgh).