Water Systems - Maximum Flow Velocities

Water velocities in pipes and tubes should not exceed certain limits. The fluid flow velocities in water systems should not exceed certain limits to avoid noise and damaging wear and tear of pipes and fittings.

ApplicationMaximum Velocity (m/s)Maximum Velocity (ft/s)
General Water Service0.9 - 2.43 - 8
Tap water (low noise)0.5 - 0.71.6 - 2.3
Tap water1.0 - 2.53.3 - 8.2
Cooling water1.5 - 2.54.9 - 8.2
Suction boiler feed water0.5 - 1.01.6 - 3.3
Discharge boiler feed water1.5 - 2.54.9 - 8.2
Condensate1.0 - 2.03.3 - 6.5
Process water1.5 - 35 - 10
Pump discharge1.5 - 35 - 10
Pump suction0.9 - 2.43 - 8
Heating circulation1.0 - 3.03.3 - 9.8