PipeFlow brings professional hydraulic modeling directly to the web. Designed as an web based alternative for a software like EPANET, it helps professionals and students model pressurized pipe networks online with ease, utilizing the proven Gradient Method (disclaimer: PipeFlow is currently in active development. While we strive for precision, please cross-reference results with established methods..).
Use the toolbar on the left to place Nodes (Junctions, Reservoirs, Tanks). Then select the Pipe tool and click two nodes sequentially to connect them. Note: A valid network must have at least one Reservoir or Tank to provide hydraulic head.
Select any element on the canvas to open the Properties Panel.
Click the button in the top right. If successful, results (Pressure, Flow, Velocity) will overlay on the map. Use the "View" menu to color-code pipes by Velocity to spot bottlenecks.
PipeFlow uses iterative matrix algebra to solve complex networks. However, the fundamental building block is the head loss calculation across a single pipe. Below is a detailed breakdown of how the tool calculates the Pressure at Node 2 in a simple Reservoir-Pipe-Junction system.
The standard SI formula requires Flow in m³/s and Diameter in meters.
We calculate Head Loss (hf) due to friction:
Pressure is the remaining hydraulic head minus the physical elevation.
Yes, it is a free web-based tool for educational and commercial use.
Yes, projects are saved as `.JSON` files to your local hard drive.
Negative pressure means the node elevation is higher than the Hydraulic Grade Line (HGL). Increase pump head or reservoir elevation.
Yes, the solver handles looped networks, branches, and dead-ends automatically.
Extended Period Simulation. It calculates system behavior over time (e.g., 24 hours), showing tank filling/draining.
Yes, go to Edit > Project Options to switch from LPS/Meters to GPM/Feet.
Select a pump, and in the properties panel click "Edit Head Curve". Add flow vs head points.
Yes, File > Export Results will generate CSV files for nodes and links compatible with Excel.
Reservoirs have infinite water (constant head). Tanks have finite volume and levels change during EPS.
Yes, you can add a 'k' coefficient to pipes or valves to simulate bends and fittings.
Select the pipe and press the 'Delete' key on your keyboard.
It means some nodes are not connected to a Source (Reservoir/Tank) and cannot get water.
Yes, File > Print Report generates a professional PDF with tables and diagrams.
Check for closed valves trapping water or demands that exceed available pressure/flow capacity.
Yes, you can switch the friction formula in Project Options.
Pipes allow flow in both directions. For a CV, you must currently use a specific Valve type or Control rule.
Use the View menu to color-code pipes by Velocity, Diameter, or Head Loss.
No. All calculations happen locally in your browser for privacy and speed.
Any modern browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari) works.
It uses the same underlying mathematical principles (Gradient Algorithm) as EPANET.
For Tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/@SapienKnows/playlists