Calculating Hole Size for Desired Flow Rate in Tank/Reservoir

In summary, the conversation discusses how to determine the size of a hole in a tank/reservoir in order to achieve a certain flow rate, given the pressure and other factors. The easiest approach is to use energy conservation, specifically considering the kinetic energy of the liquid and the work done by pressure.
  • #1
qazwsxedc
11
0
Specifically, I have a certain flow rate in (volume/sec) and I know the pressure of the resevoir at a certain point. If there is a hole in the tank/resevoir at that point, how big should it be to achieve the given certain flow rate?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


If you may ignore friction, the easiest approach is to use energy conservation. Kinetic energy of liquid flowing out must be equal to work done by pressure pushing this volume out:

P - pressure, s - area of the hole, v - velocity [itex]\rho[/itex] - density of the liquid
[tex]Psv = \rho sv\frac{v^2}{2}[/tex]
thus
[tex]P = \frac{\rho v^2}{2}[/tex]
 
  • #3


pressure = potential energy
 

FAQ: Calculating Hole Size for Desired Flow Rate in Tank/Reservoir

How do I calculate the required hole size for a desired flow rate in a tank/reservoir?

To calculate the required hole size, you will need to determine the flow rate, viscosity of the liquid, and the size of the tank/reservoir. You can then use the following formula: Hole size = (Flow rate * viscosity) / (tank/reservoir size). This will give you the required hole size in units of length (such as inches or centimeters).

What is the relationship between hole size and flow rate in a tank/reservoir?

The relationship between hole size and flow rate in a tank/reservoir is directly proportional. This means that as the hole size increases, the flow rate will also increase, and vice versa. However, this relationship is affected by other factors such as fluid viscosity and tank/reservoir size.

What are the units for flow rate and viscosity in the calculation?

Flow rate is typically measured in volume per time, such as liters per second or gallons per minute. Viscosity is measured in units of force per area, such as pascal seconds or poise. It is important to make sure that the units match in the calculation to get an accurate result.

Are there any other factors that can affect the accuracy of the calculation?

Yes, there are some other factors that can affect the accuracy of the calculation. These include the shape and smoothness of the hole, the height of the liquid in the tank/reservoir, and the presence of any blockages or obstructions near the hole. It is important to consider these factors and make adjustments to the calculation if necessary.

Is there a maximum flow rate that can be achieved with a certain hole size in a tank/reservoir?

Yes, there is a maximum flow rate that can be achieved with a certain hole size in a tank/reservoir. This is known as the critical flow rate and is determined by the size and shape of the hole, as well as the height of the liquid in the tank/reservoir. Once the critical flow rate is reached, increasing the hole size will not result in a higher flow rate.

Similar threads

Back
Top