HVAC & Airflow

Velocity Pressure to FPM Calculator

Convert pitot velocity pressure to air speed.

Enter your values

Enter the velocity pressure in in wc.

Enter the duct diameter in in.

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.

Results
Air velocity
896 FPM
In m/s
4.55
Airflow
488 CFM
Duct area
0.545 sq ft

Working

  1. 14005 x sqrt(0.05) = 896 FPM

Quick answer

Air velocity equals 4,005 times the square root of velocity pressure in inches of water at standard air density.

FPM = 4005 x sqrt(Vp)

At a glance

What it doesConvert pitot velocity pressure to air speed.
CategoryHVAC & Airflow
Inputs neededVelocity pressure, Duct diameter
Main outputAir velocity
FormulaFPM = 4005 x sqrt(Vp)
CostFree — no sign-up, no download

How to use the Velocity Pressure to FPM Calculator

  1. 1Take the velocity pressure reading with a pitot tube and manometer.
  2. 2Average a proper traverse of readings across the duct.
  3. 3Multiply the average velocity by the duct area for airflow.

Inputs explained

Velocity pressure(in wc)
Enter the velocity pressure in in wc.
Duct diameter(in)
Enter the duct diameter in in.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Velocity pressure0.05 in wc
  • Duct diameter10 in

Results

  • Air velocity896 FPM
  • In m/s4.55
  • Airflow488 CFM
  • Duct area0.545 sq ft
  1. 4005 x sqrt(0.05) = 896 FPM

Frequently asked questions

Where does 4005 come from?

It bundles standard air density of 0.075 lb/ft³; correct it for hot or high-altitude air.

Total, static and velocity pressure?

Total equals static plus velocity; a pitot tube measures the difference to give velocity pressure directly.

What do I need to enter into the Velocity Pressure to FPM Calculator?

Just 2 values: velocity pressure, duct diameter. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.

How does the Velocity Pressure to FPM Calculator work out the answer?

Air velocity equals 4,005 times the square root of velocity pressure in inches of water at standard air density. It applies the formula FPM = 4005 x sqrt(Vp) and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.

Is the Velocity Pressure to FPM Calculator free, and do I need an account?

It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.