# How do you determine flow distribution at a dividing T-Junction?

So I've been trying to find out how to determine what proportion of fluid will flow down a given path when a main line branches into two lines at a 90 degree T-Junction and I can't find anything helpful.

Lets just assume water at room temperature in steady-state conditions.

It seems that pressure losses will have an effect on proportion of distribution. If the two paths have similar designs, ie; the same energy losses, the flow will split roughly 50:50. However, if one path has more energy losses than the other, then < 50% of fluid will go down that path. So there is a relationship between the proportion of pressure losses in the line to the proportion of flow down that path. What is this relationship? Is there a numerical model to determine this?

Also, intuitively, at a 90 degree T-junction, momentum/inertia should have an effect. Obviously the fluid would prefer to continue on straight rather than take a 90 degree turn, especially at high speeds. Do we consider this when determining flow division? Is there a numerical model to help me determine it's effect on how much flow will go down a given path?

Any answers or resources guiding me in the right direction, or numerical models to help me determine flow distribution at a T junction would be greatly appreciated!

• More flow in the direction of least losses. Mar 4 at 6:46

In flow problems, it's generally a good idea to work backwards in realtion to the flow: Find where each branch is ending and the pressure at this point (height, atmospheric pressure, $$p_{out 1}, p_{out 2}$$ ). Then, find the relation between pressure loss and flowrate for each branch ($$\Delta p_1(Q_1), \Delta p_2(Q_2)$$).

You know the the pressure at the junction is the same for both flows ($$p_{in}$$), and that $$p_{in}-\Delta p = p_{out}$$. So it follows: $$p_{out 1}+\Delta p_1(Q_1)=p_{out 2}+\Delta p_2(Q_2)$$. Knowing $$Q_{total}=Q_1+Q_2$$ you can find the flows.

You won't solve this analytically, only numerically.

As for your second question, consider this (admittedly a bit cryptic) diagram:

The red dashed line is the $$\zeta$$ value for flow straight through the pipe, the lines above are for branching flows (at different sizes of the off-branch). You see that the $$\zeta$$ value is always higher for branching flows, so your hunch in effect correct.

• Hi thank yo so much for your answer, exactly what I'm looking for! I really appreciate it! I just don't fully grasp the diagram. So if we know the ratio of areas, and we want to find the flow rate ratio, how do we find the ζ value? Or is it meant to be used in such a way that you choose a desired volume rate and find the ζ value you need? Sorry, I'm not well versed in hydraulic resistance. I would be ever more thankful if you could help me with this! :) Mar 5 at 1:48
• working with the diagram, I would guess a starting value V3/V2, find the according zeta values and adjust my calculation, reiterate a few times. You could also approximate the T as an albow (with V3) and a straight pipe run with V1. As you can see, when the flow divides 50/50 the zeta value for the branch is approximately double that of the straight part..
– mart
Mar 5 at 7:13
• When you need formulas (to implement in spreadsheet), find a recent edition of Idelchiks handbook of hydraulik resistance.
– mart
Mar 5 at 7:14
• Just to be perverse. Remember with small branches they are/can be effected by venturi effect.