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Physics

Hydraulic Diameter Calculator

Find equivalent hydraulic diameter from flow area and wetted perimeter.

SI units shown beside each fieldIdeal model explained below
Physics lab
Physics lab

Use the units beside each input and review the model assumptions.

See the method

Define your system

Runs on your device

Your calculated quantity

Your result

Let’s calculate.

Use the Calculate button to see your result.

Review the method below for assumptions and conventions.

How to use this tool

  1. Enter flow cross-sectional area, wetted perimeter.
  2. Select Calculate to view the result.
  3. Check the method and assumptions below before using the result.

The method, explained

Hydraulic diameter Dh=4A/Pw.

A WORKED EXAMPLE

Using flow cross-sectional area = 0.02 m², wetted perimeter = 0.6 m, the result is 0.133333333 m. Change these example inputs to match your task; use the method above to check each step.

Understanding your result

Use only the boundary in contact with fluid for wetted perimeter; exclude the free surface of an open channel.

What to keep in mind

Use only the boundary in contact with fluid for wetted perimeter; exclude the free surface of an open channel. An idealized educational model using the stated SI units. Real systems may need additional forces, losses or experimental measurements. Not a safety or equipment specification.

Common questions

How do I use this hydraulic diameter calculator?

Find equivalent hydraulic diameter from flow area and wetted perimeter. Enter flow cross-sectional area in m², wetted perimeter in m. The starting example is editable; use values for the same system or project.

Which assumptions affect this result?

Use only the boundary in contact with fluid for wetted perimeter; exclude the free surface of an open channel.

Methodology maintained by ClarityKit. How these tools are built and checked.