Colebrook-White Pipe Flow Calculator

Colebrook-White Pipe Flow Calculator

The Colebrook-White equation is an implicit formula used to calculate the Darcy-Weisbach friction factor for turbulent flow in a pipe. Here’s a concise table summarizing key aspects related to the Colebrook-White equation and its application in pipe flow:

AspectDetails
Equation1f=−2log⁡10(ϵ/D3.7+5.74Re0.9)\frac{1}{\sqrt{f}} = -2 \log_{10} \left( \frac{\epsilon/D}{3.7} + \frac{5.74}{Re^{0.9}} \right)f​1​=−2log10​(3.7ϵ/D​+Re0.95.74​)
Variables– fff: Darcy-Weisbach friction factor
– ϵ\epsilonϵ: Pipe roughness height (m)
– DDD: Pipe diameter (m)
– ReReRe: Reynolds number
Flow RegimeApplicable for turbulent flow (Re>4000Re > 4000Re>4000)
Roughness ValuesCommon values for different materials (approximate):
– Commercial steel: 0.045 mm
– PVC: 0.0015 mm
– Copper: 0.0005 mm
Reynolds Number CalculationRe=ρvDμRe = \frac{\rho v D}{\mu}Re=μρvD​
– ρ\rhoρ: Fluid density (kg/m³)
– vvv: Flow velocity (m/s)
– μ\muμ: Dynamic viscosity (Pa·s)
Solving the EquationIterative methods or numerical techniques (e.g., Newton-Raphson) are used due to its implicit nature.
Applications– Pipeline design and analysis
– HVAC systems
– Water supply systems
– Chemical processing
Limitations– Not valid for laminar flow (Re<2000Re < 2000Re<2000)
– Assumes fully developed flow
– Sensitivity to roughness and flow conditions

This table provides a comprehensive overview of the Colebrook-White equation, its application, and relevant parameters. If you have any specific areas you would like to delve deeper into, feel free to ask!

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