1. What Is The Fire Hose Flow Equation?

The Fire Hose Flow Equation calculates the volumetric flow rate of water through a fire hose using the fundamental equation Q = A × v, where Q is the flow rate, A is the cross-sectional area of the hose, and v is the velocity of water flow.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the equation:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Flow rate (m³/s)
• \( A \) — Cross-sectional area (m²)
• \( v \) — Velocity of water (m/s)

Explanation: This equation is derived from the continuity equation in fluid dynamics and represents the volume of water passing through the hose per unit time.

3. Importance Of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate flow rate calculation is essential for firefighting operations to ensure adequate water supply, proper nozzle selection, and effective fire suppression. It helps determine the required pump pressure and hose size for optimal performance.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter the cross-sectional area in square meters and water velocity in meters per second. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I calculate cross-sectional area for a circular hose?
A: For circular hoses, use A = π × r² where r is the inner radius of the hose in meters.

Q2: What is a typical flow rate for fire hoses?
A: Typical flow rates range from 0.05 to 1.0 m³/s depending on hose diameter and water pressure.

Q3: How does water velocity affect flow rate?
A: Flow rate increases linearly with velocity - doubling the velocity doubles the flow rate, assuming constant cross-sectional area.

Q4: What factors can affect flow rate accuracy?
A: Hose roughness, bends, kinks, nozzle type, and water pressure variations can all affect actual flow rates.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for other fluids?
A: Yes, the equation Q = A × v applies to any incompressible fluid, though density and viscosity may affect practical applications.