1. What is the Pump Power Equation?

The pump power equation calculates the required motor power for a pump based on flow rate, head, fluid density, and pump efficiency. It's essential for proper pump selection and energy efficiency in fluid systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pump power equation:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power (kW)
• \( Q \) — Flow rate (m³/h)
• \( H \) — Head (m)
• \( \rho \) — Density (kg/m³)
• \( g \) — Gravity (9.81 m/s²)
• \( \eta \) — Pump efficiency (0-1)

Explanation: The equation calculates the theoretical power required to move a fluid at a given flow rate against a specific head, adjusted for pump efficiency.

3. Importance of Pump Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation ensures proper pump sizing, prevents motor overload, optimizes energy consumption, and reduces operational costs in fluid systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter flow rate in m³/h, head in meters, fluid density in kg/m³ (water = 1000 kg/m³), and pump efficiency as a decimal (0-1). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical pump efficiency value?
A: Centrifugal pumps typically range from 0.6-0.85 (60-85%), while positive displacement pumps can reach 0.9 (90%).

Q2: How does density affect power requirements?
A: Power is directly proportional to density. More viscous fluids require more power to pump at the same flow rate and head.

Q3: What safety factor should I add to the calculated power?
A: Typically 10-20% is added to account for system losses and future requirements.

Q4: How does head relate to pressure?
A: Head (in meters) can be converted to pressure (in bar) by multiplying by density and gravity: P = ρ × g × H.

Q5: Can this be used for all pump types?
A: This equation works for both centrifugal and positive displacement pumps, though specific efficiency values differ.