Water Pump Horsepower Formula

Water Pump Horsepower Formula:

\[ WHP = \frac{Q \times H}{3960} \]

Water Horsepower (WHP):

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1. What is Water Pump Horsepower Formula?

The Water Pump Horsepower (WHP) formula calculates the hydraulic horsepower required by a pump to move water. It represents the actual power transferred to the water and is essential for proper pump selection and system design.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the WHP formula:

\[ WHP = \frac{Q \times H}{3960} \]

Where:

\( WHP \) — Water Horsepower (hp)
\( Q \) — Flow Rate (gallons per minute, GPM)
\( H \) — Total Head (feet, ft)
\( 3960 \) — Conversion constant

Explanation: The formula calculates the power required to lift water against gravity, considering both flow rate and the height the water needs to be pumped.

3. Importance of WHP Calculation

Details: Accurate WHP calculation is crucial for selecting the right pump size, ensuring energy efficiency, preventing motor overload, and designing effective water systems for irrigation, industrial processes, and municipal water supply.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter flow rate in GPM and total head in feet. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will provide the water horsepower required for the specified conditions.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between WHP and BHP?
A: WHP (Water Horsepower) is the power delivered to the water, while BHP (Brake Horsepower) is the power input to the pump shaft. BHP accounts for pump efficiency losses.

Q2: How does pump efficiency affect horsepower requirements?
A: To find the actual motor horsepower needed, divide WHP by the pump efficiency. For example, if WHP is 10 hp and efficiency is 80%, the required motor power is 12.5 hp.

Q3: What factors affect total head (H)?
A: Total head includes static head (vertical lift), friction head (pipe resistance), and pressure head (system pressure requirements).

Q4: Can this formula be used for other fluids?
A: This specific formula is for water. For other fluids, the calculation must account for different specific gravities and viscosities.

Q5: What is the significance of the 3960 constant?
A: The constant 3960 combines unit conversions for flow (GPM), head (ft), and power (hp) based on the density of water and gravitational acceleration.