Transposing the hydraulic diameter formula

In summary, the formula for calculating the width (W) from a known height (H) and hydraulic diameter (Dh) is W = H*Dh/(2*H - Dh). By multiplying both sides by (W+H) and collecting terms with W, the expression can be simplified to solve for W. This method can be applied to other equations as well.
  • #1
Xpind
3
0
Hi

Is there a way of transposing the formula to calculate the width (W) from a known height (H) and hydraulic diameter (Dh)?

Dh = (2xWxH)/(W+H)

Many thanks

Jon
 
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  • #2
Xpind said:
Dh = (2xWxH)/(W+H)
Multiply both sides by (W+H):
(W+H)*Dh = 2*W*H

Now just multiply out the left hand side. And so on.
 
  • #3
Thanks for the quick reply Doc Al.

It's been a long time since I've needed to do this kind of thing, and at the moment I just can't see 'it' to isolate the width

I have four pages of re-written equations, unfortunately none of them start W=

Could you help a simpleton out, and finish the transposition through?

Thanks again

Jon
 
  • #4
Multiply both sides by (W+H):
(W+H)*Dh = 2*W*H

Now just multiply out the left hand side:
W*Dh + H*Dh = 2*W*H

Collect terms with W to one side:
2*W*H - W*Dh = H*Dh

W*(2*H - Dh) = H*Dh

So:
W = H*Dh/(2*H - Dh)

There you go.
 
  • #5
W*(2*H - Dh) = H*Dh

So simple when you can see it..

Thanks for your help, that's been driving me crazy!
 

Related to Transposing the hydraulic diameter formula

1. What is the hydraulic diameter formula?

The hydraulic diameter formula is a mathematical equation used to determine the equivalent diameter of a non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as a rectangular or triangular duct, for the purpose of calculating fluid flow and pressure drop.

2. Why is it important to transpose the hydraulic diameter formula?

Transposing the hydraulic diameter formula allows you to solve for a specific variable, such as flow rate or pressure drop, by rearranging the equation. This can be useful in different scenarios where you may need to manipulate the formula to solve for a different unknown value.

3. What is the difference between hydraulic diameter and traditional diameter?

Traditional diameter refers to the actual physical diameter of a circular pipe or duct, whereas hydraulic diameter takes into account the shape of non-circular ducts and calculates an equivalent diameter for the purposes of fluid flow calculations. This is important because it allows for more accurate calculations in systems with non-circular cross-sections.

4. How do you transpose the hydraulic diameter formula?

To transpose the hydraulic diameter formula, you need to manipulate the equation by moving variables to different sides of the equal sign. This can be done using basic algebraic principles, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

5. Are there any limitations to the hydraulic diameter formula?

The hydraulic diameter formula is most accurate for flow in fully-developed laminar or turbulent flow conditions. It may not be as accurate in transitional flow or in cases where there are significant changes in the cross-sectional shape along the flow path. Additionally, it may not be applicable to all types of non-circular shapes, such as irregular or asymmetrical shapes.

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