Note:
Pitot Tube Equation calculates fluid velocity by measuring the difference between stagnation pressure and static pressure. It's based on Bernoulli's principle and is widely used for point velocity measurements in ducts and pipes.
Key Parameters (Pitot Tube Velocity Calculation):
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Ps - P – Stagnation Pressure minus Static Pressure (in Pascals, Pa).
This difference tells us how much pressure is created by the moving fluid. It must be ≥ 0, because if there's no difference, there’s no flow detected.
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ρ – Fluid Density (in kilograms per cubic meter, kg/m³).
This is the mass of fluid per unit volume. It must be greater than 0 because we need a real fluid with measurable mass to calculate velocity.
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Cp – Pitot Tube Coefficient (typically between 0.98 and 1.0).
This accounts for energy losses and imperfections in the tube's shape or flow. A perfect tube would have Cp = 1.0.
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gc – Gravitational Conversion Factor (set as 1 in SI units).
This ensures consistent unit usage in the formula. You can treat it as a constant for metric calculations.
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V – Fluid Velocity (in meters per second, m/s).
This is the final result — how fast the fluid is flowing based on pressure and density inputs.
Dual Calculator Placement Justification:
Environment Applications
- Stack gas velocity measurements
- Ventilation system airflow monitoring
- Wind speed measurements
Safety Applications
- Dust collection system monitoring
- Fume hood face velocity measurements
- Industrial ventilation system checks
Real-Life Applications:
- Environmental Monitoring - Stack emissions testing
- HVAC Systems - Duct airflow measurements
- Aerospace - Aircraft airspeed indicators
- Industrial Hygiene - Workplace ventilation assessments
- Chemical Plants - Process gas flow monitoring
Important Considerations:
- Must be aligned with flow direction
- Not suitable for dirty or particulate-laden flows
- Measures point velocity, not average velocity
- Accuracy depends on proper pressure measurement
- For gases, density varies with temperature and pressure
Why This Formula is Important?
Pitot tubes provide simple, reliable velocity measurements essential for ventilation system balancing, environmental monitoring, and industrial process control.
Industry Standards & Guidelines:
EPA Method 2 for stack gas velocity measurements. ASHRAE 111 for HVAC system measurements. ISO 3966 for flow measurements in closed conduits.
Conclusion:
The pitot tube provides a simple, reliable method for fluid velocity measurement in environmental and safety applications. While limited to clean fluids and point measurements, its simplicity and durability make it invaluable for airflow monitoring and industrial ventilation system assessments.