Valve Flow Equation:
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The valve flow equation calculates the flow rate through a valve based on the flow coefficient, pressure drop, and fluid specific gravity. This is essential for valve sizing and fluid system design in various engineering applications.
The calculator uses the valve flow equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that flow rate is proportional to the flow coefficient and the square root of the pressure drop to specific gravity ratio.
Details: Accurate flow rate calculation is crucial for proper valve selection, system design, process optimization, and ensuring efficient fluid transport in piping systems.
Tips: Enter flow coefficient (dimensionless), pressure drop in psi, and specific gravity (dimensionless). All values must be positive numbers greater than zero.
Q1: What Is Flow Coefficient (C_v)?
A: Flow coefficient is a dimensionless number that represents the flow capacity of a valve - the flow of water in gpm at 60°F that will produce a 1 psi pressure drop.
Q2: How Is Specific Gravity Determined?
A: Specific gravity is the ratio of the fluid's density to the density of water at 4°C. For water, SG = 1.0.
Q3: What Are Typical C_v Values?
A: C_v values range from less than 1 for small valves to over 1000 for large control valves, depending on valve size and type.
Q4: When Is This Equation Applicable?
A: This equation is valid for turbulent flow conditions and incompressible fluids. It may need modification for compressible fluids or laminar flow.
Q5: How Accurate Is This Calculation?
A: The calculation provides theoretical flow rates. Actual performance may vary due to factors like valve design, installation effects, and fluid properties.