1. What is Pump Head Pressure?

Pump head pressure is a measurement of the height difference that a pump can move a liquid against gravity, expressed in feet. It accounts for both the pressure and the specific gravity of the fluid being pumped.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pump head equation:

Where:

• \( Pressure \) — Pressure in pounds per square inch (psi)
• \( 2.31 \) — Conversion factor from psi to feet of water
• \( Specific\ Gravity \) — Ratio of fluid density to water density (unitless)

Explanation: The equation converts pressure to equivalent height (head) by accounting for the fluid's specific gravity.

3. Importance of Pump Head Calculation

Details: Pump head calculation is essential for proper pump selection, system design, and ensuring adequate flow rates in piping systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter pressure in psi and specific gravity (1.0 for water). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is specific gravity important?
A: Specific gravity accounts for fluid density differences. Heavier fluids require more energy to pump the same height.

Q2: What's the 2.31 conversion factor?
A: It converts psi to feet of water head (1 psi = 2.31 feet of water head at SG=1.0).

Q3: How does head relate to pump performance?
A: Pump performance curves show flow rate vs. head. The system must operate where pump curve intersects system curve.

Q4: What if my fluid isn't water?
A: Use the specific gravity of your fluid. For example, gasoline has SG ≈ 0.72-0.78.

Q5: Can I use this for negative pressure?
A: No, this calculator is for positive pressure systems only.