ME 116 Fluid Mechanics

Chapter 8: Minor Losses

Fall 2014

Deify Law

Major and Minor Losses

Major losses are only applicable to pipes
Minor losses are only applicable to fittings,
valves, and minor piping components.

Minor Losses
hL min or
p
KL 2

V / 2 g 1 V 2
2
K L geometry, Re

Valves
Bends
Tees
Elbows

Loss Coefficient of Entrance Flow

Conditions

KL= 0.8

KL= 0.5

KL= 0.2

KL= 0.04

Edge-Rounding Effects

Loss Coefficient of Exit Flow

Conditions

KL = 1.0
For all
cases

Loss Coefficient for a Sudden

Contraction

Loss Coefficient for a Sudden

Expansion

90 Degree Bend

Gradual Bend Instead of an Elbow

Threaded and Flanged Elbow

Threaded

Threaded loss is always

greater than the Flanged loss

Flanged

Source: Grainger Company