A tool designed to determine the appropriate size and specifications for a pump used within a recirculation system, it employs various inputs such as flow rate, pipe diameter, pipe length, desired temperature rise, and fluid properties. An example involves a closed-loop hydronic heating system where this tool assists in specifying a pump that can maintain consistent water temperature throughout the building.
Accurate pump selection is critical to system efficiency and performance, preventing issues such as excessive energy consumption or inadequate heating/cooling. Historically, manual calculations were employed, requiring significant time and expertise. The development of these calculators streamlines this process, enhancing design accuracy and reducing the potential for errors, ultimately contributing to optimized system operation.