Orifice Plate Pressure Drop Calculator

Orifice Plate Pressure Drop Equation:

\[ \Delta P = \left(\frac{Q}{C \cdot A}\right)^2 \cdot \frac{\rho}{2} \]

Volumetric Flow Rate (Q):

m³/s

Discharge Coefficient (C):

dimensionless

Orifice Area (A):

m²

Fluid Density (ρ):

kg/m³

Pressure Drop (ΔP):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Orifice Plate Pressure Drop?

The pressure drop across an orifice plate is the difference in pressure between the upstream and downstream sides of the plate caused by the restriction of flow. It's a key parameter in fluid dynamics and flow measurement.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the orifice plate pressure drop equation:

\[ \Delta P = \left(\frac{Q}{C \cdot A}\right)^2 \cdot \frac{\rho}{2} \]

Where:

\( \Delta P \) — Pressure drop (Pa)
\( Q \) — Volumetric flow rate (m³/s)
\( C \) — Discharge coefficient (dimensionless)
\( A \) — Orifice area (m²)
\( \rho \) — Fluid density (kg/m³)

Explanation: The equation shows that pressure drop increases with the square of flow rate and linearly with fluid density, while being inversely proportional to the square of the product of discharge coefficient and orifice area.

3. Importance of Pressure Drop Calculation

Details: Calculating pressure drop is essential for designing piping systems, selecting pumps, and ensuring proper operation of flow measurement devices like orifice plates.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all values in consistent SI units. Typical discharge coefficients range from 0.6 to 0.9 depending on orifice geometry and flow conditions.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical discharge coefficient value?
A: For standard orifice plates, C is typically around 0.61-0.62 for sharp-edged orifices at high Reynolds numbers.

Q2: How does viscosity affect the calculation?
A: Viscosity affects the discharge coefficient (C) but not directly in this simplified equation. For precise calculations, Reynolds number corrections may be needed.

Q3: Can this be used for compressible flows?
A: This equation is for incompressible flows. For compressible flows (gases), additional factors like expansion factor must be considered.

Q4: What's the relationship between pressure drop and flow rate?
A: Pressure drop is proportional to the square of the flow rate, meaning doubling flow rate quadruples the pressure drop.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: Accuracy depends on correct C value selection. For precise measurements, consult detailed orifice plate standards (ISO 5167, ASME MFC-3M).