Center of Pressure Apparatus

Note: Price is based on given specs. For other specifications, please submit an inquiry.

The study of discharge through a venturimeter is one of the most important experiments in fluid mechanics. A venturimeter is a precision flow-measuring device widely used in laboratories, industries, and research institutions to determine the flow rate of liquids in closed conduits. Its working principle is based on Bernoulli’s theorem, which relates pressure energy, velocity energy, and potential energy of flowing fluids.

In engineering laboratories, the venturimeter apparatus is extensively used to help students understand fluid behavior, pressure variation, velocity changes, and accurate discharge measurement. Institutions looking to upgrade their laboratories often search for reliable venturimeter setups and request a price or quotation based on specifications, material, and measurement accuracy.

What Is a Venturimeter?

A venturimeter is a differential pressure flow measurement device installed in a pipeline. It consists of three main sections:

1. Converging Section – where the cross-sectional area decreases and fluid velocity increases.

2. Throat – the narrowest section where velocity is maximum and pressure is minimum.

3. Diverging Section – where the area gradually increases, allowing partial pressure recovery.

By measuring the pressure difference between the inlet and the throat, the discharge (flow rate) of the fluid can be calculated accurately.

Principle of Operation

The venturimeter works on Bernoulli’s principle, which states that for an incompressible, frictionless fluid, the total energy remains constant along a streamline.

When fluid flows through the converging section:

• Velocity increases

• Pressure decreases

At the throat:

• Maximum velocity occurs

• Minimum pressure is observed

The pressure difference between the inlet and throat is measured using a manometer or pressure sensor. This pressure difference is then used to calculate the discharge.

Discharge Formula for Venturimeter

The theoretical discharge through a venturimeter is given by:

$$Q = \frac{A_1 A_2}{\sqrt{A_1^2 - A_2^2}} \sqrt{2g(h_1 - h_2)}$$

Where:

• $Q$ = Discharge (m³/s)

• $A_1$ = Area at inlet

• $A_2$ = Area at throat

• $g$ = Acceleration due to gravity

• $h_1 - h_2$ = Pressure head difference

In practical applications, a coefficient of discharge (Cd) is introduced to account for losses.

Importance of Venturimeter in Laboratories

Venturimeters are essential equipment in fluid mechanics laboratories for the following reasons:

• Accurate measurement of discharge

• Low energy loss compared to orificemeters

• Long service life due to no sharp edges

• High reliability and repeatability of results

• Ideal for both teaching and research purposes

Engineering students gain hands-on experience in flow measurement, pressure analysis, and data interpretation using venturimeter setups.

Construction of Venturimeter Test Rig

A typical venturimeter test rig includes:

• Venturimeter tube (usually made of brass, stainless steel, or acrylic)

• Inlet and outlet pressure tapping points

• Differential manometer or digital pressure transmitter

• Control valve for flow regulation

• Water circulation system

• Measuring tank with scale

• Rigid supporting frame

The entire setup is designed to ensure stable flow conditions and accurate data collection.

Experimental Procedure

1. Start the water supply and allow steady flow through the venturimeter.

2. Adjust the control valve to set a desired flow rate.

3. Record pressure readings at the inlet and throat.

4. Measure actual discharge using the collecting tank and stopwatch.

5. Calculate theoretical discharge.

6. Determine coefficient of discharge by comparing actual and theoretical values.

7. Repeat for different flow rates.

Applications of Venturimeter

Venturimeters are used across multiple industries and educational sectors, including:

• Water supply systems

• Chemical processing plants

• Oil and gas pipelines

• Power plants

• HVAC systems

• Fluid mechanics and hydraulics laboratories

• Research and testing facilities

Their accuracy and durability make them suitable for both laboratory demonstrations and industrial flow monitoring.

Advantages of Venturimeter

• High accuracy in flow measurement

• Minimal head loss

• Suitable for large flow rates

• Long operational life

• Low maintenance requirement

• Consistent and repeatable results

These advantages make venturimeters preferable over many other flow-measuring devices.

Comparison with Other Flow Meters

Compared to orificemeters and rotameters:

• Venturimeters have lower energy loss

• They offer better accuracy

• They are more expensive initially but cost-effective in long-term use

• Suitable for continuous flow measurement

Factors Affecting Price of Venturimeter Apparatus

When requesting a price or quotation, the cost of a venturimeter test rig depends on several factors:

• Material of construction (brass, SS, acrylic)

• Pipe diameter and flow range

• Type of pressure measurement (U-tube manometer or digital sensor)

• Frame and structural quality

• Calibration accuracy

• Compliance with laboratory standards

• Customization as per syllabus requirements

Different laboratories may require different configurations, which influences the final price.

Why Request a Customized Quote?

A customized quotation ensures that the venturimeter apparatus meets your specific laboratory needs. By requesting a quote, institutions can:

• Select appropriate specifications

• Ensure compatibility with existing hydraulic benches

• Optimize budget without compromising quality

• Get installation and support details

• Compare features before purchase

A detailed quote helps decision-makers make informed procurement choices.

Educational Value

The discharge through venturimeter experiment strengthens students’ understanding of:

• Bernoulli’s theorem

• Continuity equation

• Pressure-velocity relationship

• Flow measurement techniques

• Experimental error analysis

It bridges the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world applications.

Maintenance and Care

To ensure long-term performance:

• Clean pressure tapping points regularly

• Avoid air bubbles in manometer lines

• Calibrate instruments periodically

• Operate within recommended flow limits

• Store apparatus in a dry environment

Proper maintenance enhances accuracy and service life.