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Fire Hose Flow Equation:
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The fire hose flow equation calculates the flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM) based on hose diameter and water pressure. This is essential for firefighting operations to determine water delivery capacity and fire suppression effectiveness.
The calculator uses the fire hose flow equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that flow rate increases with the square of the diameter and the square root of the pressure, making diameter the most significant factor in determining flow capacity.
Details: Accurate GPM calculation is crucial for firefighting operations to ensure adequate water supply, proper pump selection, and effective fire suppression. It helps determine the required water flow to combat different types and sizes of fires.
Tips: Enter hose diameter in inches and water pressure in psi. Both values must be positive numbers. Common hose diameters range from 1.5 to 5 inches, while pressure typically ranges from 50 to 300 psi in firefighting applications.
Q1: Why is the diameter squared in the equation?
A: The cross-sectional area of the hose (which determines flow capacity) increases with the square of the diameter, making diameter the most influential factor in flow rate.
Q2: What are typical GPM values for fire hoses?
A: Typical values range from 95 GPM for 1.5-inch hoses to over 1000 GPM for 5-inch hoses, depending on pressure and specific hose characteristics.
Q3: Does hose length affect flow rate?
A: Yes, longer hoses create more friction loss, which reduces flow rate. This equation provides theoretical maximum flow; actual flow may be lower due to friction and other factors.
Q4: Are there different equations for different hose types?
A: While the basic principle remains the same, specific coefficients may vary slightly depending on hose material, smoothness, and other factors that affect flow characteristics.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation for real-world applications?
A: This provides a good theoretical estimate, but actual flow rates may vary due to factors like hose condition, elevation changes, and pump efficiency. Always test actual flow rates in field conditions.