What does pump bypass loss mean?

It is the hydraulic and associated electrical energy spent circulating flow that does not serve the useful process demand.

Pump Bypass Recirculation Loss Calculator

Quantify avoidable pump energy carried by bypass flow and annualize the cost opportunity.

Inputs

Bypass flow (L/s)Pump head (m)Density (kg/m³)Pump efficiency (%)Motor efficiency (%)Hours/yearEnergy price ($/kWh)

Results

Bypass hydraulic power 5.88 kW

Associated electrical input 8.53 kW

Annual wasted energy 51165.13 kWh

Annual cost $5116.51

Method, assumptions & example

Hydraulic power = ρgQH; electrical input = hydraulic power ÷ pump efficiency ÷ motor efficiency. A 20 L/s bypass at 30 m head wastes about 5.88 kW hydraulically before efficiency correction. Verify the full pump/system curve before changing minimum-flow protection.

FAQs

Is this a final design calculation?

No. Use it for transparent screening and verify equipment, controls and thermodynamic properties against site/OEM data.

What units are used?

The inputs state practical SI units explicitly and outputs are normalized to kW, kWh and kg/h where applicable.

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Last updated: 17 September 2026