Reference:  Cameron Hydraulic Data , 18th Edition, 1994, Ingersoll-Dresser Pumps. Page 3-9, Friction – Head Loss – Sample Calculation.


Pipe Flow Expert File: Case_16_Water_Friction_Loss_And_Pump_Head_Calculation.pfe


Problem Description: 

A pump is used to deliver water through a 1250 ft long discharge pipe at a flow rate of 200 US gpm.


The water source is approximately 5 ft below the pump.

The pump is at 28.62 ft elevation.

The liquid level above the suction pipe is 0.38 ft. 

The elevation of the water level in the discharge tank is 289 ft.


The pipeline friction calculation has to include for:

A foot valve and strainer,

Two long radius elbows,

A swing check valve,

A gate valve,

An exit condition to the discharge tank.


Find the total suction lift.

Find the head loss of the fittings on the discharge line.

Find the total pump head required.


A screen shot of a computer??Description automatically generated


Fluid Data: Water at 68°F (Assumed).


Result Comparison: 


Data Item 

Published data

Pipe Flow Expert

Suction Lift ()

5.35

5.34

Discharge Fittings Loss ()

1.52

1.54

Total Pump Head (ft. )

295.35

295.504


Commentary: 

The published data and the calculated results compare well.