1. What is the Pump Power Equation?

The pump power equation calculates the power required to move a fluid at a specified flow rate against a given head (height). It accounts for fluid density, gravitational acceleration, flow rate, head, and pump 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)
• \( Q \) — Flow rate (m³/s)
• \( H \) — Head (m)
• \( \eta \) — Pump efficiency (decimal, 0-1)

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

3. Importance of Pump Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation ensures proper pump selection, prevents under/over-sizing, and helps estimate energy costs. It's essential for system design and energy efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all values in the specified units. Typical water density is 1000 kg/m³. Pump efficiency typically ranges 0.7-0.9 (70%-90%).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical pump efficiency value?
A: Centrifugal pumps typically have 70-85% efficiency, while positive displacement pumps may reach 90%.

Q2: 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).

Q3: Why is density important?
A: Denser fluids require more power to pump at the same flow rate and head. Water (1000 kg/m³) is the reference.

Q4: What if my flow rate is in L/s or m³/h?
A: Convert to m³/s (1 L/s = 0.001 m³/s; 1 m³/h ≈ 0.000278 m³/s) before calculation.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical power. Actual power may vary due to system losses, viscosity effects, and other factors.