Designing Systems to Reduce Friction Loss
| The smooth
bore design of Flexfab general purpose hose reduces friction loss and
internal abrasive wear, but additional savings can be realized if sharp
elbows and turns are avoided. The largest practical radius should
be allowed to reduce turbulence. (Tabulated centerline bend radii
on bends and elbows are intended as an indication of how far the hose
can be bent without flattening, and should not be construed as an
installation recommendation.)
Friction loss can be further minimized if interior edges of field-cut end-lengths, and lengths with ring couplings, are assembled in the direction of the airflow. (Utility and other duct connecting ends are pre-designed to fit correctly.) Excessive velocities in dust collection applications should also be avoided to reduce a "sand blasting" effect. The attached charts estimate air friction losses of various Flexfab hoses and ducts. View / Download Friction Loss Charts
EXAMPLE: A 25 ft. straight length of 4" ID hose carrying an air flow at 250 cfm would have a friction loss of 5.0 inches of water (w.g.) per 100 feet. EXAMPLE: 7" ID at 3,000 feet per minute velocity will deliver 800 cubic feet per minute of air with a friction loss of 2" per water (pressure) per 100 ft. of hose length. |
