Pump Horsepower Calculator

    Calculate hydraulic horsepower (HHP) required for mud pumps based on flow rate and pressure.

    Calculation Inputs

    Pump output flow rate

    Pump discharge pressure

    What Is Pump Horsepower?

    Pump horsepower is the power required at the pump to deliver a given flow rate and pressure. In drilling operations, it is used to size mud pumps and estimate power demand on the rig's prime movers.

    Hydraulic Horsepower vs. Brake Horsepower

    Two related terms are commonly used:

    • Hydraulic horsepower (HHP): the power actually transmitted to the drilling fluid.
    • Brake horsepower (BHP): the power required at the pump shaft, accounting for pump efficiency.

    Hydraulic Horsepower Formula

    In oilfield units:

    HHP = (P_psi × Q_gpm) / 1714

    Where:

    • P_psi = pump discharge pressure (psi)
    • Q_gpm = flow rate (gallons per minute)

    Brake Horsepower Formula

    Brake horsepower accounts for pump efficiency:

    BHP = HHP / Eff_frac

    Where Eff_frac is pump efficiency expressed as a fraction (e.g. 0.9 for 90% efficiency).

    Example Pump Horsepower Calculation

    Suppose:

    • Discharge pressure = 3,000 psi
    • Flow rate = 500 gpm
    • Pump efficiency = 85% (0.85)
    HHP = (3,000 × 500) / 1714 ≈ 875 hpBHP = 875 / 0.85 ≈ 1,030 hp

    Pump Horsepower FAQ

    Why is brake horsepower higher than hydraulic horsepower?

    Mechanical and volumetric losses in the pump mean that not all input shaft power is converted into hydraulic power. Brake horsepower includes these losses.

    Does pump efficiency change with operating conditions?

    Yes. Pump efficiency can vary with speed, fluid properties, valve and liner wear, and suction conditions. The calculator uses the efficiency value supplied by the user.

    Basic Formula:

    HP = (P × Q) / 1714

    Industry-standard formula for hydraulic horsepower

    HP: Hydraulic Horsepower
    P: Pump Pressure (psi)
    Q: Flow Rate (gpm)
    1714: Conversion constant (derived from 33,000 ft-lb/min / HP)

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