Expert: Ahmed Salami - 6/13/2004

Question
i have a small compressor that delivers 30 psi
through 1/4 inch outside diameter hose. it
connects to a nebulizer used for respiratory therapy.what is the flow rate through the hose in liters per minute?

thanks !

Answer
Hi swanger,
Sorry about the delay.
First you need the conversions,
1 psi (lb/in2) =  6,894.8 Pa (N/m2)
1 in2 = 6.452 cm2 = 6.452x10-4 m2
Therefore,
30 psi = 30(6,894.8 Pa (N/m2)) = 206844N/m2
Area of hose = #(1/4)^2 / 4 = #/4^3 in2
            = #/4^3 (6,452x10-4m2) = 1.008125x10^-5m2
I think the flow rate requires a known velocity.
1 (m3/s) = 60000 litres/min

I suppose all these is okay.
Regards.