Mass Flow Rate Calculator
Calculate mass flow rate from density and volumetric flow.
Formula
ṁ = ρQ.
What Is Mass Flow Rate?
Mass flow rate measures how much mass passes through a cross-section per unit time. For a fluid with known density and volumetric flow rate, it can be calculated with ṁ = ρQ. This quantity is widely used in process engineering, HVAC, fluid mechanics and energy calculations.
Example Calculation
Water with density 1,000 kg/m³ flowing at 0.015 m³/s has a mass flow rate of 1,000 × 0.015 = 15 kg/s.
Factors and Interpretation
For the same volumetric flow, a denser fluid carries more mass each second. For a fixed density, mass flow increases directly with volumetric flow. If fluid density changes significantly with temperature or pressure, use the density that matches the actual operating condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SI unit of mass flow rate?
Kilograms per second, kg/s.
Is mass flow rate the same as volumetric flow rate?
No. Volumetric flow measures volume per time, while mass flow measures mass per time.
Does density matter for gases?
Yes, and gas density can change substantially with pressure and temperature.
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Formula and Practical Limits
Mass flow rate can be related to volumetric flow by ṁ = ρQ. Density must correspond to the actual fluid conditions, especially for gases where temperature and pressure can change density substantially.