College of Engineering

Subject: CE 47 – Hydraulics
Experiment #: 1
Experiment Title: Determination of Coefficient of Discharge of a Venturi Meter
Objectives: To determine the coefficient of discharge of a given Venturi meter
Apparatus: Venturi meter, Measuring tank, and Timer
Procedure:
1. Examine the schematics of the Venturi meter. Draw its schematics and record its dimensions.
2. Turn on the pump beneath the Venturi meter. Make sure to fill the tank of with the pump
higher than the elevation of the pump.
3. Simultaneously with operating the pump, open the gate valve. Set the discharge as maximum
as possible.
4. Observe the flow and pressures at the pressure gauges. When the flow and pressures are
steady, record the discharge with the measuring tank and timer.
5. Record the pressures indicated in the pressure gauges. Set the pressure of the pressure gauge
at the inlet as P1 and at the throat as the P2.
6. Set Procedures 3-5 as Trial 1 and repeat the same procedures for the next two trials with the
exception of the discharge being approximately three-quarters of the previous discharge
by regulating the gate valve.

Calculations:
Use the equation below as derived from Bernoulli’s Equation and Continuity Equation of
Discharge:

√
( )

Where: Q = discharge
Cd = coefficient of discharge
HI = head at inlet section
HT = head at throat section
AI = area of pipe cross-section at inlet section
AT = area of pipe cross-section at throat section

Additional calculations:
With the same Venturi meter, compute the discharge if the coefficient of discharge is Cd = 0.955
Compute the percentage difference of the theoretical coefficient of discharge with the discharge
from the three trials.
Discussion:
Derive and explain the given formula in the calculations.
Note: The “discussion” is a separate part in your report. Do not mix it in your “Data Analysis”!

Drafted by: SJ, 11/14/12