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|---|---|---|---|
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Formula and reference information
Mass flow measures mass passing a point each second. Volumetric flow measures occupied volume passing that point. Density connects both quantities for a defined fluid state.
How to use
- Select the calculation direction.
- Enter the known flow value and select its unit.
- Choose a fluid density source.
- For gases, enter absolute conditions or select gauge pressure.
- Set output precision and calculate.
Worked examples
| Example | Known values | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Water flow | ṁ = 3,600 kg/h, ρ = 1,000 kg/m³ | Q = 3.6 m³/h |
| Diesel mass flow | Q = 12 m³/h, ρ = 832 kg/m³ | ṁ = 9,984 kg/h |
| Air density | P = 101.325 kPa, T = 20 °C, M = 28.965 g/mol | ρ ≈ 1.204 kg/m³ |
Common reference densities
| Fluid | Approximate density | Reference note |
|---|---|---|
| Water (20 °C) | 998.2000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Freshwater (15 °C) | 999.1000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Seawater (20 °C) | 1,025.0000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Air (15 °C, 1 atm) | 1.2250 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Oxygen (0 °C, 1 atm) | 1.4290 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Nitrogen (0 °C, 1 atm) | 1.2510 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Carbon dioxide (0 °C, 1 atm) | 1.9770 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Steam (100 °C, 1 atm) | 0.5980 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Gasoline (typical) | 745.0000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Diesel fuel (typical) | 832.0000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Crude oil (typical) | 870.0000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Hydraulic oil (ISO VG 46, typical) | 875.0000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Ethanol (20 °C) | 789.3000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Methanol (20 °C) | 791.8000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Liquid propane (approx.) | 493.0000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Natural gas (typical gas) | 0.8000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
| Mercury (20 °C) | 13,546.0000 kg/m³ | Verify temperature, pressure, grade, and composition. |
Selected unit references
| Quantity | Unit relationship |
|---|---|
| Mass flow | 1 kg/s = 3,600 kg/h = 7,936.641 lb/h |
| Volume flow | 1 m³/s = 3,600 m³/h = 2,118.880 ft³/min |
| Density | 1 g/cm³ = 1,000 kg/m³ = 62.428 lb/ft³ |
| Pressure | 1 atm = 101.325 kPa = 14.696 psi |
Frequently asked questions
Why is density required?
Mass and volume describe different physical quantities. Density provides the conversion ratio between them. Use density at the actual operating state.
Can I use specific gravity?
Yes. The calculator treats specific gravity as density relative to water at 1,000 kg/m³. Confirm the reference basis for precise work.
Does liquid density change with temperature?
Yes. Most liquids expand and become less dense as temperature rises. The optional correction uses a volumetric expansion coefficient.
Should gas pressure be absolute?
Yes. Gas equations require absolute pressure. Select gauge pressure only when atmospheric pressure is also entered.
What does compressibility factor mean?
The factor Z corrects ideal-gas behaviour. Z equals one for an ideal gas. Real gases may require verified property data.
What is standard volumetric flow?
It is volume flow referenced to stated standard conditions. Different industries use different standards. Always report the selected temperature and pressure.
Can this calculator handle steam?
It can provide an estimate using density or gas inputs. Steam often needs accurate property tables. Use validated steam data for design.
Why do preset densities differ from references?
Density changes with composition and conditions. Fuels and oils also vary by grade. Presets are starting values, not certificates.
Can I convert between any listed units?
Yes. Every input is converted through SI base units. Results are then converted into the selected and reference units.
How accurate is the result?
The arithmetic is precise within browser limits. Overall accuracy depends mainly on input accuracy. Density and gas conditions usually dominate uncertainty.
Are negative flow values supported?
No. This calculator treats flow as a magnitude. Use a separate sign convention when direction must be represented.