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Affinity Law for Flow Rate:
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The affinity law for flow rate describes the relationship between flow rate and head in centrifugal pumps. It states that flow rate is proportional to the square root of the head when other parameters remain constant.
The calculator uses the affinity law equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that flow rate increases with the square root of the head, which is fundamental in pump performance analysis and system design.
Details: Accurate flow rate calculation is essential for pump selection, system design, energy efficiency analysis, and operational optimization in various industrial and municipal applications.
Tips: Enter the constant factor (k) and head value (H) in meters. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is the practical significance of the affinity law?
A: The affinity law helps predict how changes in pump speed or impeller diameter affect flow rate, head, and power consumption in centrifugal pump systems.
Q2: When is the affinity law most applicable?
A: The law is most accurate when applied to geometrically similar pumps operating at similar efficiencies and when viscosity effects are negligible.
Q3: What are typical units for flow rate in pump calculations?
A: Flow rate is commonly measured in m³/s, m³/h, liters/second, or gallons per minute (GPM), depending on the application and regional standards.
Q4: How does head affect pump performance?
A: Head represents the energy imparted to the fluid by the pump. Higher head generally results in lower flow rates for a given pump configuration.
Q5: Can this formula be used for all types of pumps?
A: The affinity law primarily applies to centrifugal pumps. Positive displacement pumps follow different performance characteristics and require different calculation methods.