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What does flow mean?

Flow is a term used mainly in the field of hydraulics(cylinders, dividers, regulators, etc.) to refer to the circulation of a liquid, particularly water. But what exactly is flow? How can we define it? Can it be quantified or calculated? In this article, we take a look at all these questions, with a particular focus on the definition: what is flow ? To find out more, read on!

UNDERSTANDING FLOW RATE

It is always difficult to provide a complete definition of throughput. The term is mostly used to describe the conditions under which a liquid circulates in a given space, particularly water. We often hear the term "water flow" used. But what exactly does this expression mean?

The flow of water

The flow of a river is in fact the volume of liquid water passing through a cross-section of the flow, per unit of time. In our daily lives, this definition can also be applied to the flow of water in our pipes, for example. In all cases, the volume of water flowing through a given space is measured.

Why calculate the flow rate?

The benefits of calculating water flow may not always seem obvious, but they are very real. It is this calculation that enables us to measure our consumption and our needs in terms of running water. Now more than ever, these measurements are essential, as freshwater is a precious resource that is becoming increasingly scarce. Calculating the flow of water allows us to anticipate and adapt our consumption. For example, by reducing it if necessary. It is also the basis on which we pay for our consumption. So the flow rate also gives you an idea of the cost of your water consumption. The usefulness of calculating the volume flow rate in litres per second of a distribution system is to obtain the comfort of use at the point of draw-off, but also to measure water consumption in cubic metres per hour in order to size the plumbing system according to requirements (which differ according to surface areas and the number of consumers) and also to anticipate the bill.

How do you calculate the flow rate?

The concepts of flow rate and pressure are closely linked. But be careful not to confuse them! The flow rate of water (to use just one example) is calculated in cubic metres (m3). To calculate the flow of a watercourse, simply multiply the average speed of water per second (m/s) by the average width and average depth of the watercourse, both expressed in metres (m). This gives you the number of cubic metres of water flowing over a given period of time (an hour, for example).

Note, however, that this formula only applies to rivers. It is different for the circulation of water in pipes, although the principle is the same. The maximum flow rate of water in a pipe can be calculated as follows: The maximum flow rate in cubic metres per second is equal to the surface area of your pipe diameter in square metres, multiplied by the silent speed in metres per second. And that's all there is to it!

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