1. What is Pump Head Pressure?

Pump head pressure is the height to which a pump can raise a liquid column, expressed in feet of liquid. It's a crucial parameter in pump selection and system design, accounting for both pressure and specific gravity of the fluid.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pump head equation:

Where:

• \( Pressure \) — 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

Explanation: The equation converts pressure to equivalent height of fluid column, adjusted for the fluid's specific gravity.

3. Importance of Pump Head Calculation

Details: Accurate head calculation is essential for proper pump selection, ensuring adequate flow against system resistance and elevation changes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter pressure in psi and specific gravity (1.0 for water). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is specific gravity important?
A: Specific gravity accounts for fluid density differences compared to water. Heavier fluids require more energy to pump to the same height.

Q2: What's 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: Does this work for all fluids?
A: Yes, as long as you know the fluid's specific gravity. For water at standard conditions, specific gravity is 1.0.

Q4: What about viscous fluids?
A: This calculation gives theoretical head. Viscous fluids may require additional considerations for actual pump performance.

Q5: How does elevation affect pump head?
A: Total head must overcome both elevation changes and system friction losses.