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Head loss calculations

Q: How can we calculate the head loss due to various bends in a reciprocating compressor? Will the cfm increase substantially by reducing bends? How to reduce the bends and fittings?

A: Evaluate the differential pressure per return bend, then total the pressure drop for all the piping.

P_d = K(V²/2g)

Pressure drop for K velocity heads, where K = 0.5 for each return bend

V² = Velocity squared base on the flowing velocity in the piping.

It is estimated that reducing the number of pipe bends will not increase the cfm substantially.