Pump Head Calculator

Sum static lift and friction losses from pipes, fittings, and components. Results update dynamically.

How to Use

To calculate Total Dynamic Head (TDH), input the following system details:

Static Lift (ft): Enter the vertical height water is pumped. This is often zero for closed-loop systems unless an open tank at elevation is present.
Pipe Segments: For each straight pipe run, input its length (ft) and friction loss rate (ft of head per 100 ft of pipe). This rate is typically found from pipe sizing charts for the design flow rate and pipe specifics.
Fittings: For each fitting (elbows, tees, valves), input its equivalent length in feet. Friction loss for fittings is estimated using the first pipe segment's friction rate.
Components: For items like boilers, chillers, coils, or control valves, input their pressure drop in feet of head (from manufacturer data at the design flow rate).

The calculator sums these values to find the Total Dynamic Head (TDH) required for pump selection.

The Pump Head Calculator is designed for hydronic (water-based) heating and cooling systems to determine the Total Dynamic Head (TDH) that a pump must overcome. TDH is the total equivalent height that fluid is to be pumped, considering static lift and friction losses. This calculator sums the static lift (vertical height difference), friction losses in straight pipe runs, losses due to fittings (elbows, tees, etc., often expressed as equivalent pipe lengths), and pressure drops across system components like boilers, chillers, coils, and control valves. Accurate TDH calculation is essential for selecting the correct pump to achieve the desired flow rate.

Understanding Pump Curves: A pump curve graphically represents a pump's performance, plotting flow rate (GPM) against head (feet). The system curve, defined by the TDH calculation, represents the system's resistance. The intersection of these two curves is the pump's operating point. Proper pump selection aims to match this point to the design requirements and the pump's Best Efficiency Point (BEP).

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Important Disclaimer

This calculator provides an estimate. Accurate TDH calculation requires precise friction loss data for pipes (based on flow rate, diameter, material) and fittings, as well as accurate component pressure drops from manufacturers at the design GPM. Consult engineering handbooks (e.g., Cameron Hydraulic Data, ASHRAE) and pump selection software for detailed design.

Pump Head Calculator

Pipe Segments

Fittings

Components

What is Total Dynamic Head (TDH)?

What is 'static lift' in a closed-loop hydronic system?

How are friction losses from fittings accounted for?

How does TDH relate to pump selection?

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