PUMP ENGINEERING CALCULATOR
Total Dynamic Head (TDH) Calculator
Calculate the head a centrifugal pump must develop by combining the applicable elevation, pressure and system-loss terms for your defined system boundary. Use the result for pump-curve review, pump power calculations and preliminary sizing.
VALIDATED
Preserves the supplied TDH Excel formula and single-path input boundary.
CALCULATION INPUT
Fluid & duty
CALCULATION INPUT
Pressure & pipe
ENGINEERING REFERENCE
Total dynamic head calculator
Calculate the pump head required to move a specified flow through an elevation change, pressure difference and pipe system. The worksheet keeps signed elevations, pressure basis, fluid properties and pipe losses visible for engineering review.
Use the source mode for a single-path TDH calculation. The hydraulic-equivalent mode uses the shared suction and discharge boundary for comparison, but the two source workbooks remain separate calculation models.
How to Calculate Total Dynamic Head
Total dynamic head represents the total head the pump must add between the selected suction and discharge reference points. Depending on the system, that requirement can include elevation difference, pressure difference, pipe friction and minor losses from fittings, valves and other components.
The displayed source-mode equation is H = Hd + Hs + hf + (Pd − Ps) / (ρg). It is shown for the calculator boundary used here, not as a replacement for pump-curve review.
Worked TDH Example
With the default demonstration inputs entered in the live calculator, the source-mode result is 112.943177 m. Record the system boundary, pressure basis and liquid properties with that result before using it for a duty review.
From Calculator Result to Pump Curve
Review candidate pump curves near the required flow and TDH. Confirm operating range, efficiency, absorbed power, NPSHr and project-specific requirements before choosing a model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What two values define the main centrifugal pump duty point?
Required flow and total dynamic head define the core hydraulic duty used for pump-curve review.
Is this automatic pump selection?
No. The calculator organizes duty data; final selection requires pump-curve, power, NPSH, material and service-condition review.
Should I calculate NPSHa before selecting a pump?
Yes. Determine NPSHa from the system and compare it with the NPSHr of candidate pumps at the intended duty.