1. What is the Pump Power Formula?

The pump power formula calculates the required horsepower for a submersible pump based on flow rate, total head, specific gravity of the fluid, and pump efficiency. It's essential for selecting the right pump size for your application.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pump power formula:

Where:

• \( HP \) — Required horsepower
• \( Q \) — Flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM)
• \( H \) — Total head in feet
• \( SG \) — Specific gravity of the fluid (1.0 for water)
• \( \eta \) — Pump efficiency (typically 0.7-0.9)
• 3960 — Conversion factor (foot-pounds per minute per horsepower)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the work needed to move a specific volume of fluid against a certain head pressure, adjusted for fluid density and pump efficiency.

3. Importance of Proper Pump Sizing

Details: Correct pump sizing ensures efficient operation, prevents premature failure, and reduces energy costs. Oversized pumps waste energy while undersized pumps can't meet system demands.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Measure flow rate in GPM (gallons per minute)
• Total head includes vertical lift plus friction losses
• Use SG=1.0 for water, higher for denser fluids
• Typical pump efficiency ranges from 70-90% (0.7-0.9)

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is total head?
A: Total dynamic head is the sum of static head (vertical distance) plus friction losses in pipes and fittings.

Q2: How do I determine pump efficiency?
A: Check manufacturer specifications. Typical submersible pumps have 70-85% efficiency.

Q3: What's the safety factor for pump sizing?
A: It's common to add 10-20% to the calculated HP to account for system variations and future needs.

Q4: Can I use this for other pump types?
A: The formula works for most centrifugal pumps, but specific applications may require adjustments.

Q5: How does viscosity affect pump sizing?
A: High viscosity fluids require more power and may need special pump designs.