1. What is the Fire Sprinkler Flow Rate Equation?

The Fire Sprinkler Flow Rate equation calculates the flow rate of water from a fire sprinkler head based on the K-factor and water pressure. This is essential for designing effective fire protection systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the flow rate equation:

Where:

• \( K \) — K-factor (gpm/psi^0.5)
• \( P \) — Pressure (psi)
• \( FR \) — Flow Rate (gpm)

Explanation: The equation shows that flow rate is proportional to the square root of the pressure, with the K-factor representing the sprinkler head's flow characteristics.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculation is crucial for designing fire protection systems, ensuring adequate water coverage, and meeting fire safety codes and standards.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter K-factor in gpm/psi^0.5 and pressure in psi. Both values must be positive numbers to calculate the flow rate.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a K-factor?
A: The K-factor is a constant that represents the flow characteristics of a sprinkler head, measured in gallons per minute per square root of psi (gpm/psi^0.5).

Q2: Why does flow rate depend on the square root of pressure?
A: This relationship comes from the Bernoulli equation and reflects how fluid flow through an orifice relates to pressure differential.

Q3: What are typical K-factor values?
A: Common K-factor values range from 1.4 to 25.2 gpm/psi^0.5, with specific values depending on sprinkler head type and application.

Q4: How does pressure affect flow rate?
A: Higher pressure results in higher flow rates, but the relationship is not linear - doubling pressure increases flow rate by about 41% (square root of 2).

Q5: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: This equation assumes water as the fluid and may need adjustment for other fluids. It also assumes the sprinkler orifice is not obstructed and water is flowing freely.