1. What is the Pump Head Equation?

The Pump Head equation calculates the height that a pump can move fluid, considering both pressure and the fluid's specific gravity. It's essential for designing and selecting pumps in various industrial applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Pump Head equation:

Where:

• \( Pressure \) — Pump pressure in pounds per square inch (psi)
• \( Specific\ Gravity \) — Ratio of fluid density to water density (unitless)
• 2.31 — Conversion factor from psi to feet of water head

Explanation: The equation converts pressure to equivalent height (head) while accounting for the fluid's density relative to water.

3. Importance of Pump Head Calculation

Details: Accurate pump head calculation is crucial for proper pump selection, system design, and ensuring adequate fluid flow in piping systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter pressure in psi and specific gravity (1.0 for water). All values must be valid (pressure > 0, specific gravity > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is specific gravity important in pump calculations?
A: Specific gravity accounts for how much denser the fluid is compared to water, which affects the pressure required to move it.

Q2: What is the 2.31 conversion factor?
A: It converts psi to feet of water head (1 psi = 2.31 feet of water head at standard conditions).

Q3: When should I use this calculation?
A: Use it when selecting pumps, designing piping systems, or troubleshooting pump performance issues.

Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: It assumes incompressible fluids and doesn't account for friction losses or viscosity effects in the piping system.

Q5: How does temperature affect the calculation?
A: Temperature affects specific gravity, so use the specific gravity value at the operating temperature.