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Water Horsepower Formula:
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Water Horsepower (WHP) is the theoretical power required to move water based on flow rate, head, and specific gravity. It represents the hydraulic power delivered to the water by the pump.
The calculator uses the Water Horsepower formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the power needed to move water based on the flow rate, the height the water must be lifted, and the density of the fluid relative to water.
Details: Accurate WHP calculation is crucial for proper pump selection, energy efficiency analysis, system design, and determining the actual power requirements for pumping operations.
Tips: Enter flow rate in gallons per minute (gpm), head in feet (ft), and specific gravity (1.0 for water). All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is the difference between WHP and BHP?
A: WHP is the hydraulic power delivered to the water, while BHP (Brake Horsepower) is the power required at the pump shaft, accounting for pump efficiency.
Q2: What is specific gravity and when should I change it?
A: Specific gravity is the ratio of fluid density to water density. Use 1.0 for water. Change it when pumping other fluids like brine (1.2) or oil (0.8-0.9).
Q3: Why is the conversion constant 3960?
A: 3960 combines unit conversions: 1 hp = 550 ft-lb/s, 1 gallon water = 8.34 lb, and time conversions for gpm to consistent units.
Q4: How does head affect horsepower requirements?
A: Higher head requires more horsepower. Doubling the head approximately doubles the horsepower requirement, assuming constant flow rate.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for other fluids?
A: Yes, by adjusting the specific gravity for the specific fluid being pumped. The formula works for any Newtonian fluid.