FT-06 · Pipe networks

Pipes in parallel

Splits the total flow according to the non-linear resistance of each branch, or computes the flow delivered for a known differential pressure.

Boundary condition and properties

Variable conocidaTotal flow rate · Density · Dynamic viscosity ·

Branches between nodes A and B

1L · D · ε · ΣK

2L · D · ε · ΣK

3L · D · ε · ΣK

Total flow rate

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Common ΔP

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Head loss

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Flow balance

Cerrado

Split per branch

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Flow per branch

Node compatibility

\[Q_T=\sum_i Q_i\]

\[h_{L,1}=h_{L,2}=\cdots=h_{L,n}\]

\[h_{L,i}=\left(f_i\frac{L_i}{D_i}+K_i\right)\frac{V_i^2}{2g}\]

Each flow rate is obtained iteratively, because f depends on the Reynolds number and therefore on the flow rate itself.

Parallel pipe flow calculator

In a parallel network the flow divides, but the energy loss between the common nodes is the same for every branch. A branch with lower resistance takes a larger share of the flow.

Variables that control the split

Variable	Effect on resistance	Sensibilidad
Diameter	A smaller diameter sharply increases the loss	Very high
Length	The loss grows roughly linearly	Media
Rugosidad / K	Increases friction or local losses	Depends on the flow regime

Iterative solution

Resistance is not constant, because the friction factor depends on the Reynolds number. The calculator solves mass conservation and head compatibility simultaneously.

Preguntas frecuentes

Do all branches have the same velocity?

No. They share the head loss, but each diameter and resistance produces a different flow rate and velocity.

Can valves be added?

Yes, by summing the K coefficients of each branch.

What happens if a branch is closed?

It must be removed, or represented with a very high resistance; the flow redistributes among the open branches.