Restriction Orifice Flow Calculator

Restriction Orifice Flow Equation:

\[ Q = C \times A \times \sqrt{\frac{2 \times \Delta P}{\rho}} \]

Discharge Coefficient (C):

Orifice Area (A):

m²

Pressure Difference (ΔP):

Density (ρ):

kg/m³

Flow Rate (Q):

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1. What is the Restriction Orifice Flow Equation?

The restriction orifice flow equation calculates the volumetric flow rate through an orifice based on the pressure difference across the orifice, the orifice characteristics, and fluid properties. It's widely used in fluid mechanics and engineering applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the restriction orifice flow equation:

\[ Q = C \times A \times \sqrt{\frac{2 \times \Delta P}{\rho}} \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
\( C \) — Discharge coefficient (dimensionless)
\( A \) — Cross-sectional area of the orifice (m²)
\( \Delta P \) — Pressure difference across the orifice (Pa)
\( \rho \) — Fluid density (kg/m³)

Explanation: The equation accounts for the relationship between pressure drop and flow rate through a restriction, considering fluid properties and orifice characteristics.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculation is crucial for designing piping systems, controlling flow rates, and ensuring proper operation of fluid systems in various industries.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the discharge coefficient (typically 0.61 for sharp-edged orifices), orifice area, pressure difference, and fluid density. All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical discharge coefficient value?
A: For sharp-edged orifices, C is typically about 0.61. The exact value depends on the orifice geometry and Reynolds number.

Q2: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent SI units: m² for area, Pa for pressure, kg/m³ for density, which will give m³/s for flow rate.

Q3: When is this equation applicable?
A: The equation is valid for incompressible, steady, turbulent flow through thin-plate orifices.

Q4: What are the limitations of this equation?
A: It doesn't account for compressibility effects, viscosity variations, or non-turbulent flow conditions.

Q5: How does orifice shape affect the calculation?
A: Different orifice shapes (sharp-edged, rounded, etc.) affect the discharge coefficient C but not the basic equation form.