1. What Is Gas Equivalent Water Sizing?

Gas equivalent water sizing is a method to determine the appropriate orifice size for gas flow by comparing it to water flow characteristics. This conversion accounts for differences in fluid properties between water and gas.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the gas equivalent water sizing equation:

Where:

• \( Q_{gas} \) — Equivalent gas flow rate (SCFH)
• \( Q_{water} \) — Water flow rate (GPM)
• \( SG_{water} \) — Specific gravity of water (1.0)
• \( SG_{gas} \) — Specific gravity of gas (0.6 for natural gas)
• \( P_{gas} \) — Gas pressure (psi)
• \( P_{water} \) — Water pressure (psi)

Explanation: The equation converts water flow characteristics to equivalent gas flow by accounting for differences in specific gravity and pressure.

3. Importance Of Orifice Sizing

Details: Proper orifice sizing is critical for efficient gas flow, accurate metering, and safe operation of gas systems. Undersized orifices can restrict flow while oversized ones can lead to control problems.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter water flow rate in GPM, water and gas pressures in psi, and select the gas type. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use water equivalent for gas sizing?
A: Water flow characteristics are well understood and provide a reliable baseline for calculating equivalent gas flow rates.

Q2: What are typical orifice sizes?
A: Orifice sizes typically range from 0.5mm to 10mm depending on flow requirements and pressure conditions.

Q3: When should this calculation be used?
A: This method is particularly useful for sizing orifices in gas control valves, burners, and flow measurement devices.

Q4: Are there limitations to this method?
A: This method assumes ideal gas behavior and may need adjustment for very high pressures or temperatures.

Q5: How does gas type affect the calculation?
A: Different gases have different specific gravities which significantly impact the equivalent flow rate calculation.