LearnChemE

Calculating Velocity in Pipe Flow: Summary

The answers to the ConcepTests are given below and will open in a separate window. 
Key points from this module:
  • The mechanical energy equations includes head loss which accounts for friction in the flow.
  • Major head losses consist of straight pipe while the minor losses take into account changes in the pipe, including bends and turns as we as valves, pumps, etc.
  • Friction factors can be determined from the Moody chart.
From studying this module, you should now be able to:
  • Simplify the energy equation to be able to find velocity.
  • Calculate velocity given pressure drop or other variables.
  • Use Goal Seek or iteration to find a friction factor.

 

Prepared by Janet deGrazia, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder