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Pressure Drop Calculator

Darcy-Weisbach equation: ΔP = f(L/D)(ρv²/2). Calculate frictional pressure loss in pipes. Also estimates friction factor from Reynolds number.

Pressure Drop

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psi

Velocity

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ft/s

Reynolds Number

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Friction Factor

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Darcy

Flow Regime

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Head Loss

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ft

How this was calculated

Darcy-Weisbach: ΔP = f × (L/D) × (ρv²/2)

Reynolds Number: Re = ρvD/μ

Laminar (Re < 2300): f = 64/Re. Turbulent: Colebrook-White equation solved iteratively.

Head loss hL = ΔP / (ρg) = f(L/D)(v²/2g)

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Understanding Pressure Drop in Pipes

The Darcy-Weisbach equation is the most general method for calculating frictional pressure drop in pipe flow. It applies to both laminar and turbulent flow of any Newtonian fluid.

In petroleum operations, pressure drop calculations are essential for flowline sizing, artificial lift design, injection system design, and facility piping. The friction factor depends on Reynolds number and pipe relative roughness.

For turbulent flow, the Colebrook-White equation (or Moody chart) provides the friction factor. This calculator uses iterative solution of the Colebrook equation.

All calculations run in your browser. Built by Groundwork Analytics.

Disclaimer: For estimation only. Does not account for fittings, valves, elevation changes, or non-Newtonian fluids.