- Net elevation head: Δz = zout − zin
- Static lift (uphill only): Hlift = max(0, Δz)
- Static drop (downhill only): Hdrop = max(0, −Δz)
- Max lift to peak: Hpeak = max(0, zpeak − zin)
- Extra lift above net rise: Hextra = Hpeak − Hlift
- Pressure equivalent: ΔP = ρ · g · Δz (Pa), reported as kPa and psi
Tip: elevation head is the static component. If you also need friction losses, add them to lift for total pump head.
- Select your elevation unit and keep one consistent datum.
- Enter inlet and outlet elevations from drawings or survey notes.
- Optionally enter the highest elevation along the route.
- Set fluid density and gravity if you need pressure equivalents.
- Press Submit to view results above the form.
- Use CSV or PDF to share results with crews and records.
| Units | Inlet | Outlet | Peak | Net head | Max lift |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| m | 120.0 | 165.5 | 180.0 | 45.5 m | 60.0 m |
| ft | 350.0 | 320.0 | 365.0 | -30.0 ft | 15.0 ft |
| m | 10.0 | 10.0 | (blank) | 0.0 m | 0.0 m |
Example values are illustrative. Use project survey data for design decisions.
Static elevation head basics
Elevation head is the change in potential energy per unit weight between two points. It comes from surveyed elevations at inlet and outlet. Positive net head means uphill transfer needing pumping energy; negative net head means gravity assistance. The calculator separates lift and drop to support quick design checks.
Using net head for sizing
Net elevation head is only one part of total dynamic head, but it sets the minimum requirement before friction is added. For preliminary sizing, add static lift to estimated friction, fittings, and minor losses to define a pump duty point. If outlet is lower, static drop may require control valves or dissipation. With boosters, split lift across stations and verify each segment elevation profile.
Peak lift and high points
Alignments often include a local summit above both ends. Peak elevation controls the maximum lift the fluid must overcome, even when the outlet is lower. This affects priming, suction margin, and air management at high points. Comparing peak lift to net rise exposes extra lift that endpoint-only checks can miss.
Pressure equivalents for checks
Convert head to pressure using ΔP = ρ·g·Δz. Outputs in kPa and psi align with field gauges and datasheets. Adjust density for brine, slurry, or hot water. Use the pressure change as a reasonableness check against equipment ratings and expected operating envelopes.
Documentation and field workflow
Record the datum, input elevations, and assumptions for density and gravity. Exported results support handover packages, commissioning notes, and troubleshooting logs. A repeatable elevation-head record helps validate as-built profiles, confirm pump settings, and explain performance changes after reroutes or tie-ins. Use it as the static baseline before adding losses. Attach exports to drawing references so crews reproduce checks without new surveys. Note valve locations and air release points.
What does elevation head represent?
It is the vertical energy change between two points, expressed as head. Positive values mean the outlet is higher than the inlet. Negative values mean the outlet is lower and gravity can assist flow.
Why enter a peak elevation?
A high point can require more lift than the endpoint difference suggests. Peak lift helps assess priming, air release needs, and whether intermediate boosters or vacuum protection may be required.
Does the result include friction losses?
No. This tool reports only elevation head and its pressure equivalent. Add friction, fittings, valves, and equipment losses separately to estimate total dynamic head for pump selection.
Which fluid density should I use?
Use the best estimate for operating conditions. Water is about 1000 kg/m³, seawater about 1025 kg/m³, and hot water can be lower. For slurries, use measured density from test data.
How should I interpret a negative net head?
A negative net head means the outlet is below the inlet. You may have available head that increases velocity and pressure. Plan for throttling, pressure control, or energy dissipation to protect downstream assets.
Why are both kPa and psi shown?
Design documents often use kPa, while field gauges may read psi. Seeing both makes quick cross-checks easier, especially during commissioning, troubleshooting, and alignment with equipment pressure ratings.