What is the typical pressure loss per 100 feet of 1-inch PVC pipe at a flow rate of 10 GPM?

For a 1-inch PVC pipe carrying water at a flow rate of 10 gallons per minute (GPM), the typical pressure loss over a distance of 100 feet is indeed around 2 psi. This figure is generally derived from established flow rate and friction loss tables, which account for the internal diameter of the pipe, the flow velocity, and the nature of the fluid—water, in this case.

At 10 GPM, the velocity of water through a 1-inch pipe generates a friction loss due to the pipe's wall surface. This pressure loss is primarily influenced by the roughness of the pipe's interior and the flow characteristics. Since PVC is a smooth material and the flow is relatively low, the resistance encountered is manageable, leading to this approximately 2 psi loss.

Understanding this relationship is crucial for irrigation systems, as it helps in determining pump requirements, pipe sizing, and overall system efficiency. Hence, identifying pressure loss is vital for maintaining the desired irrigation performance and ensuring that sufficient pressure is available at the emitters or sprayers.