How to Calculate Nozzle Flow
What is Nozzle Flow?
Nozzle flow calculates jet velocity and discharge rate from a small opening. Used in sprinklers, turbines, and flow control.
Formula
Ideal: V = √(2gh), Actual: V = C_d × √(2gh)
- V
- √(2gh) — √(2gh)
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Apply Bernoulli equation with contraction coefficient
- 2Ideal: V = √(2gh), Actual: V = C_d × √(2gh)
- 3Discharge: Q = C_d × A × V
Worked Examples
Input
h = 5 m head, A = 10 mm², C_d = 0.6 (typical)
Result
V ≈ 5.4 m/s, Q ≈ 0.054 L/s
Orifice discharge
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕Using ideal formula without discharge coefficient
- ✕Neglecting pressure recovery in convergent nozzles
Frequently Asked Questions
What is discharge coefficient?
Accounts for contraction and friction; typically 0.6-0.98 depending on nozzle shape.
How does nozzle shape affect discharge?
Sharp-edged orifice has low Cd (0.6); streamlined nozzle Cd ≈ 0.98.
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