1. What is the Pump Horsepower Formula?

The pump horsepower formula calculates the power required to pump a fluid based on flow rate, head, specific gravity, and pump efficiency. It's essential for proper pump selection and system design in various industrial applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pump horsepower formula:

Where:

• \( flow \) — Flow rate in gallons per minute (gpm)
• \( head \) — Total dynamic head in feet (ft)
• \( SG \) — Specific gravity (dimensionless)
• \( efficiency \) — Pump efficiency (decimal)
• 3960 — Conversion constant

Explanation: The formula calculates the theoretical power required to move fluid against the specified head, adjusted for fluid density and pump efficiency.

3. Importance of Pump Horsepower Calculation

Details: Accurate horsepower calculation is crucial for proper pump selection, motor sizing, energy consumption estimation, and ensuring efficient system operation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter flow in gpm, head in feet, specific gravity (1.0 for water), and efficiency as a decimal (e.g., 0.85 for 85%). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is specific gravity?
A: Specific gravity is the ratio of a fluid's density to the density of water at 4°C. Water has a specific gravity of 1.0.

Q2: Why is the efficiency value important?
A: Efficiency accounts for energy losses in the pump system. Higher efficiency means less power is wasted as heat and vibration.

Q3: What is a typical pump efficiency range?
A: Pump efficiencies typically range from 50% to 85%, depending on pump type, size, and operating conditions.

Q4: How does head affect horsepower requirements?
A: Higher head requires more horsepower to overcome the increased pressure and elevation differences.

Q5: Can this formula be used for all pump types?
A: This formula is generally applicable to centrifugal pumps. Positive displacement pumps may require different calculations.