1. What is a Psi to Feet Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts pressure in pounds per square inch (psi) to head (height of water column) in feet.

Purpose: It's essential for hydraulic engineering, plumbing, and water system design to understand the relationship between pressure and water column height.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( h \) — Head or height of water column (feet)
• \( P \) — Pressure (psi)
• 2.31 — Conversion factor (1 psi = 2.31 feet of water head)

Explanation: The conversion factor comes from the relationship between pressure and the height of a water column (1 psi = 2.31 ft of water at 60°F).

3. Importance of Psi to Feet Conversion

Details: Understanding this conversion helps in designing water systems, calculating pump requirements, and troubleshooting pressure issues in pipelines.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter the pressure value in psi to get the equivalent height of water column in feet. The value must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the conversion factor 2.31?
A: It's derived from the specific weight of water (0.433 psi/ft). The inverse (1/0.433) gives 2.31 ft/psi.

Q2: Does this work for other liquids?
A: No, this is specific to water. For other liquids, you need to consider their specific gravity.

Q3: Does temperature affect the conversion?
A: Slightly, as water density changes with temperature, but 2.31 is accurate enough for most practical applications.

Q4: How is this used in plumbing?
A: It helps determine if pressure is adequate for building height or if booster pumps are needed.

Q5: What's the relationship to water towers?
A: Water towers use height to create pressure - every 2.31 feet of elevation provides 1 psi of pressure.