how much head loss w/ 45's?

[on3ofak1nd]

I currently use vaccum hose for my overflow and clear flexible tubing for my return... I would like to switch to solid PVC but will require at least two 45 degree angles on the overflow as well as the return. Is this the same head loss as one 90 degree angle or not as much because the turns aren't as immediate?

Thanks,
Wesley

 

[briangriffin]

Fitting              1/2  3/4   1    1 1/4  1 1/2   2 
90° Elbow            1.5  2.0  2.5   3.8     4.0    5.7 
45° Elbow            0.8  1.1  1.4   1.8     2.1    2.6

Since you didn't specify the diameter of your pipe, I've included diameters from 1/2" to 2". The numbers in the table relate to the amount of feet which an elbow adds. So if you had a 1/2" 90° it would be equivalent to 1.5' of straight pipe. Note the 45° elbows have about half the resistance as a 90°, but if you use two of them, there is more resistance than one 90°.

 

[on3ofak1nd]

Good info! thanks a lot!

 

[nick18tjetta]

Do angles effect pressure rated pumps the same as they do flow rated pumps? I have a iwaki 40rt I am about to fire up, and I have 2 90° elbows. The return is 5' vertically from the pump, and with 2 90° elbows that would be 9 feet of head pressure? It would be good, my overflow is rated for 600 gph and at 5 ft my pump puts out 750gph, so I have a ball valve installed.

 

[briangriffin]

Resistance is resistance, but pressure rated pumps tend to handle it a little more efficiently. Your setup is fine.