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The hydraulic radius formula calculates the pipe radius based on average flow velocity, pipe roughness coefficient, and hydraulic gradient. This equation is particularly useful in fluid mechanics and hydraulic engineering for determining pipe dimensions in various flow conditions.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula relates the pipe's cross-sectional characteristics to flow velocity and gradient, considering the pipe's surface roughness.
Details: Calculating hydraulic radius is essential for designing efficient piping systems, determining flow capacity, and ensuring proper fluid transport in various engineering applications including water supply, irrigation, and industrial processes.
Tips: Enter average velocity in m/s, coefficient of roughness (typically ranges from 0.01 for smooth pipes to 0.06 for rough pipes), and hydraulic gradient. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is the typical range for roughness coefficient C?
A: The coefficient typically ranges from 0.01 for smooth pipes (like plastic or copper) to 0.06 for rough pipes (like concrete or corroded metal).
Q2: How does hydraulic gradient affect pipe radius?
A: Higher hydraulic gradients allow for smaller pipe radii to achieve the same flow velocity, as the increased pressure gradient drives flow more efficiently.
Q3: When is this formula most applicable?
A: This formula is particularly useful for open channel flow and pressurized pipe flow calculations in civil and environmental engineering applications.
Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: The formula assumes steady, uniform flow and may be less accurate for extremely turbulent flow, non-Newtonian fluids, or pipes with unusual cross-sections.
Q5: How does pipe material affect the calculation?
A: Pipe material influences the roughness coefficient C, which directly affects the calculated pipe radius for given flow conditions.