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Flow Rate Formula:
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Flow rate (Q) is the volume of fluid that passes through a given surface per unit time. It's a fundamental measurement in fluid dynamics and is used in various applications from medical IV drips to industrial processes.
The calculator uses the basic flow rate formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula simply divides the total volume collected by the time it took to collect that volume, giving the average flow rate over that period.
Details: Flow rate calculations are essential in medical settings (IV therapy, dialysis), industrial processes (chemical manufacturing), and environmental monitoring (water treatment plants). Accurate flow rate measurement ensures proper dosing, system efficiency, and process control.
Tips: Enter volume in liters and time in minutes. Both values must be positive numbers. For more precise results, measure over longer time periods when possible.
Q1: Can I use different units with this calculator?
A: The calculator is set up for liters and minutes. For other units, convert your measurements first (1 liter = 1000 mL, 1 hour = 60 minutes).
Q2: What's a typical flow rate for IV fluids?
A: IV flow rates typically range from 10-125 mL/hr (0.00017-0.00208 L/min) for maintenance fluids, but can be much higher for rapid infusion.
Q3: How does pipe diameter affect flow rate?
A: Flow rate is proportional to the cross-sectional area of the pipe (πr²), so doubling the diameter quadruples the potential flow rate at constant velocity.
Q4: What's the difference between flow rate and flow velocity?
A: Flow rate is volume per time (L/min), while flow velocity is distance per time (m/s). They're related by Q = v × A (velocity × cross-sectional area).
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically precise, but accuracy depends on the precision of your volume and time measurements.