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Key Hose Equation:
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The Key Hose equation calculates pressure loss in fluid systems based on flow rate, hose length, friction coefficient, and diameter. It's essential for designing efficient fluid transport systems and ensuring proper pressure management.
The calculator uses the Key Hose equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation demonstrates that pressure loss increases with the square of flow rate and length, while decreasing with the fifth power of diameter and square of the friction coefficient.
Details: Accurate pressure loss calculation is crucial for system design, pump selection, energy efficiency optimization, and ensuring proper fluid delivery in industrial, firefighting, and irrigation applications.
Tips: Enter flow rate in gpm, length in feet, friction coefficient, and diameter in inches. All values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is a typical friction coefficient value?
A: Friction coefficients vary by hose material and condition. Common values range from 100-150 for smooth hoses and 80-100 for rough surfaces.
Q2: How does diameter affect pressure loss?
A: Pressure loss decreases dramatically with increasing diameter (5th power relationship). Doubling diameter reduces pressure loss by a factor of 32.
Q3: When is this equation most accurate?
A: The equation works best for turbulent flow conditions in straight, uniform hoses without significant fittings or bends.
Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: Less accurate for laminar flow, non-circular cross-sections, or systems with multiple fittings, valves, and bends.
Q5: How can I reduce pressure loss in my system?
A: Increase hose diameter, reduce length, use smoother hose materials, or decrease flow rate to minimize pressure losses.