Question

Consider that the three pipes of 3-inch diameter to the 6th floor contain sudden contractions, globe, and angle valves, whereas the 1.5-inch diameter pipes to the 3rd floor are equipped with gradual contractions and gate valves.

a) The 3-inch pipes will generate more losses.
b) The 1.5-inch pipes will generate more losses.
c) Both sets of pipes will generate equal losses.
d) Losses cannot be determined based on the given information.

Answer 1

Typically, 3-inch diameter pipes with sudden contractions, globe, and angle valves will generate more losses compared to 1.5-inch pipes with gradual contractions and gate valves due to higher turbulence and friction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's question is related to fluid dynamics and involves understanding the differences in losses generated by pipes with different diameters and valve types. For the first part, involving 3-inch diameter pipes with sudden contractions, globe, and angle valves, these components typically induce higher losses in the fluid flow due to turbulence and friction. In contrast, 1.5-inch diameter pipes with gradual contractions and gate valves tend to generate lower losses, as they allow a smoother flow with less resistance.

While the actual loss cannot be definitively determined from the information provided, as the lengths of the pipes, the exact configurations, and the flow rates are unknown, typical valve and fitting losses suggest that the 3-inch pipes with more restrictive valves will generate more losses than the 1.5-inch pipes. Therefore, the most likely answer is:

a) The 3-inch pipes will generate more losses.