1. What is Mean Velocity of Flow?

Mean velocity is defined as the average velocity of a fluid at a point and over an arbitrary time T. It represents the overall flow characteristics in a pipe or channel.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the mean velocity formula:

Where:

• \( V_{mean} \) — Mean velocity (m/s)
• \( V_{max} \) — Maximum velocity at axis of cylindrical element (m/s)

Explanation: For fully developed laminar flow in a cylindrical pipe, the mean velocity is exactly half of the maximum velocity occurring at the centerline.

3. Importance of Mean Velocity Calculation

Details: Calculating mean velocity is crucial for determining flow rates, designing piping systems, and analyzing fluid transport efficiency in various engineering applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the maximum velocity value in m/s. The value must be positive and valid for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is mean velocity half of maximum velocity?
A: In laminar flow through circular pipes, the velocity profile is parabolic, with maximum velocity at the center and zero at the walls, making the average exactly half of the maximum.

Q2: Does this formula apply to turbulent flow?
A: No, this relationship is specific to fully developed laminar flow. Turbulent flow has a different velocity profile and relationship between mean and maximum velocity.

Q3: What are typical applications of this calculation?
A: This calculation is used in pipe flow analysis, hydraulic systems design, blood flow studies, and various industrial fluid transport applications.

Q4: How accurate is this relationship?
A: For Newtonian fluids in fully developed laminar flow, this relationship is exact and highly accurate.

Q5: Can this be used for non-cylindrical conduits?
A: No, this specific relationship applies only to cylindrical elements. Different cross-sections have different relationships between mean and maximum velocity.