1. What is Head from Discharge Pressure?

Head from discharge pressure calculation converts pump pressure into equivalent head (height) that the pump can generate, taking into account the fluid's specific gravity. This is essential for pump selection and system design in various engineering applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the head calculation formula:

Where:

• \( Pressure \) — Discharge 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 formula accounts for the relationship between pressure and head, adjusted for the fluid's specific gravity relative to water.

3. Importance of Head Calculation

Details: Accurate head calculation is crucial for proper pump selection, system design, ensuring adequate flow rates, and preventing cavitation or system failure in fluid handling applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter discharge pressure in psi and specific gravity (1.0 for water). Both values must be positive numbers with specific gravity greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is specific gravity important in head calculation?
A: Specific gravity accounts for fluid density differences. Heavier fluids require more pressure to achieve the same head as lighter fluids.

Q2: What is the conversion factor 2.31?
A: 2.31 feet of water head equals 1 psi pressure. This comes from the relationship: 1 psi = 27.7 inches of water = 2.31 feet of water.

Q3: When should I use this calculation?
A: Use when selecting pumps, designing piping systems, troubleshooting pump performance, or converting between pressure and head measurements.

Q4: What are typical head values for common applications?
A: Residential water systems: 40-60 ft, commercial buildings: 80-150 ft, industrial processes: 100-500+ ft depending on application.

Q5: Does temperature affect specific gravity?
A: Yes, fluid density changes with temperature, which affects specific gravity. Use specific gravity values at the operating temperature for accurate calculations.