Equivalent Diameter Of Non-Circular Duct Calculator

Equivalent Diameter Formula:

\[ D_e = \frac{4 \times A_{cs}}{P} \]

Equivalent Diameter (D_e):

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1. What is Equivalent Diameter?

The Equivalent Diameter of an irregularly shaped object is the diameter of a sphere of equivalent volume. For non-circular ducts, it represents the diameter of a circular duct that would have the same hydraulic characteristics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Equivalent Diameter formula:

\[ D_e = \frac{4 \times A_{cs}}{P} \]

Where:

\( D_e \) — Equivalent Diameter (m)
\( A_{cs} \) — Cross Sectional Area of Flow (m²)
\( P \) — Wetted Perimeter (m)

Explanation: This formula converts the hydraulic characteristics of a non-circular duct into an equivalent circular diameter for simplified calculations in fluid dynamics and heat transfer applications.

3. Importance of Equivalent Diameter Calculation

Details: Calculating equivalent diameter is crucial for hydraulic analysis, pressure drop calculations, and heat transfer calculations in non-circular ducts and channels commonly found in HVAC systems, chemical processing, and hydraulic engineering.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the cross-sectional area in square meters and the wetted perimeter in meters. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between equivalent diameter and hydraulic diameter?
A: Equivalent diameter and hydraulic diameter are often used interchangeably, though hydraulic diameter specifically refers to the diameter used in fluid flow calculations for non-circular conduits.

Q2: When should equivalent diameter be used?
A: Equivalent diameter should be used when analyzing fluid flow, pressure drop, or heat transfer in non-circular ducts to simplify calculations using circular pipe formulas.

Q3: How is wetted perimeter defined?
A: Wetted perimeter is defined as the surface of the channel bottom and sides in direct contact with the fluid flow.

Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: The equivalent diameter approach works well for turbulent flow but may have limitations in laminar flow conditions or for highly irregular cross-sections.

Q5: Can this formula be used for open channels?
A: Yes, the equivalent diameter concept can be applied to both closed conduits and open channels, though the wetted perimeter definition may vary slightly.