1. What is the Flow Rate Equation?

The flow rate equation (Q = A × v) calculates the volumetric flow rate of a fluid through a given cross-sectional area. It is a fundamental equation in fluid dynamics and hydraulic engineering.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the flow rate equation:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area (m²)
• \( v \) — Flow velocity (m/s)

Explanation: The equation multiplies the cross-sectional area of the pipe or channel by the average velocity of the fluid to determine the volume of fluid passing through per unit time.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculation is essential for designing piping systems, irrigation systems, water supply networks, and various industrial processes involving fluid transport.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter cross-sectional area in square meters (m²) and velocity in meters per second (m/s). Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What units should I use for the inputs?
A: The calculator expects area in square meters (m²) and velocity in meters per second (m/s). For other units, convert them first.

Q2: Can this be used for any fluid?
A: Yes, the equation Q = A × v applies to all incompressible fluids. For compressible fluids, additional factors need to be considered.

Q3: What if the cross-section is not circular?
A: The equation works for any cross-sectional shape. Simply use the appropriate area calculation for the shape.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation assumes uniform velocity across the cross-section. In real applications, velocity profiles may vary.

Q5: What are typical flow rate values?
A: Flow rates vary widely depending on the application - from milliliters per second in medical devices to cubic meters per second in large pipelines.