Conversion of Cubic Feet per Second (CFS) to Gallons per Minute (GPM)

Cubic feet per second (CFS) and gallons per minute (GPM) are two units used to measure the flow rate of a fluid. CFS is commonly employed in engineering and hydrology, while GPM is frequently used in plumbing and irrigation systems. Understanding the conversion between these units is crucial for various applications, such as designing pipelines, calculating water usage, and calibrating flow meters. This article delves into the conversion process, providing a step-by-step guide and exploring relevant concepts.

Key Facts

  1. Conversion factor from CFS to gallons per second:
    • Multiply the number of cubic feet per second by 7.4805 to convert to gallons per second.
  2. Conversion factor from gallons per second to gallons per minute:
    • Multiply the number of gallons per second by 60 to convert to gallons per minute.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to convert CFS to gallons per minute:

Step 1: Convert CFS to gallons per second:

  • Multiply the number of cubic feet per second by 7.4805 to get the equivalent gallons per second.

Step 2: Convert gallons per second to gallons per minute:

  • Multiply the number of gallons per second by 60 to get the equivalent gallons per minute.

Conversion Formula and Methodology

The conversion from CFS to GPM involves two distinct steps:

Step 1: Convert CFS to Gallons per Second (GPS)

To convert CFS to GPS, multiply the CFS value by 7.4805. This conversion factor arises from the relationship between cubic feet and gallons, where 1 cubic foot is equivalent to approximately 7.4805 gallons.

Formula

GPS = CFS × 7.4805

Step 2: Convert GPS to GPM

To convert GPS to GPM, multiply the GPS value by 60. This conversion factor stems from the relationship between seconds and minutes, where 1 minute comprises 60 seconds.

Formula

GPM = GPS × 60

Example Calculation

Suppose you have a flow rate of 10 CFS and want to determine its equivalent in GPM.

Step 1: Convert CFS to GPS

GPS = 10 CFS × 7.4805 = 74.805 GPS

Step 2: Convert GPS to GPM

GPM = 74.805 GPS × 60 = 4,488.3 GPM

Therefore, a flow rate of 10 CFS is equivalent to approximately 4,488.3 GPM.

Conclusion

The conversion from CFS to GPM is a straightforward process that involves two simple steps: converting CFS to GPS and then converting GPS to GPM. By applying the appropriate conversion factors, one can easily determine the equivalent flow rate in the desired unit. This conversion is essential in various fields, enabling accurate measurements and calculations related to fluid flow.

References

  1. “How to Convert Cubic Feet per Second to Gallons per Minute | Sciencing.” Sciencing, https://sciencing.com/convert-second-gallons-per-minute-8648397.html. Accessed 15 Feb. 2023.
  2. “Convert cubic feet per second to US gallons per minute – Volumetric flow rate converter.” UnitJuggler, https://www.unitjuggler.com/convert-flowrate-from-cfs-to-us-gpm.html. Accessed 15 Feb. 2023.
  3. “CFS to GPM Calculator.” Calculator Academy, https://calculator.academy/cfs-to-gpm-calculator/. Accessed 15 Feb. 2023.

FAQs

What is the conversion factor from CFS to GPM?

To convert CFS to GPM, you must use two conversion factors:

  • 1 CFS = 7.4805 gallons per second (GPS)
  • 1 GPS = 60 gallons per minute (GPM)

How do I convert CFS to GPM?

To convert CFS to GPM, follow these steps:

  1. Convert CFS to GPS by multiplying the CFS value by 7.4805.
  2. Convert GPS to GPM by multiplying the GPS value by 60.

What is the formula for converting CFS to GPM?

The formula for converting CFS to GPM is:

GPM = CFS × 7.4805 × 60

Can you provide an example of converting CFS to GPM?

Sure. To convert 10 CFS to GPM:

  1. Convert CFS to GPS: 10 CFS × 7.4805 = 74.805 GPS
  2. Convert GPS to GPM: 74.805 GPS × 60 = 4,488.3 GPM

Therefore, 10 CFS is equal to 4,488.3 GPM.

What is the relationship between CFS and GPM?

CFS and GPM are both units used to measure flow rate, but they measure different aspects of flow. CFS measures the volume of fluid flowing per second, while GPM measures the volume of fluid flowing per minute.

When is it necessary to convert CFS to GPM?

Converting CFS to GPM is necessary in various applications, such as:

  • Designing pipelines and irrigation systems
  • Calibrating flow meters
  • Calculating water usage and flow rates in industrial and municipal settings
  • Comparing flow rates measured in different units

Are there any online tools or calculators available for converting CFS to GPM?

Yes, there are several online tools and calculators available that can perform the conversion from CFS to GPM. These tools typically require you to input the CFS value, and they will automatically calculate the equivalent GPM value.

What are some real-world examples where CFS to GPM conversion is used?

  • Determining the flow rate of water in a river or stream for flood control or water management purposes
  • Calculating the flow rate of water in a pipe or hose for plumbing or irrigation system design
  • Sizing pumps and other flow control devices based on the required flow rate

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