API RP 14E Erosional Velocity & Pipe Sizing Calculator
Calculate two-phase fluid mixture density, empirical C-factor limits, erosional velocity Ve, and minimum required pipe diameter per API Recommended Practice 14E Section 2.5.
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Operating State & API 14E C-Factor
Erosional Limits & Sizing Results
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis of the API RP 14E erosional velocity equation?
The empirical API RP 14E equation Ve = C / sqrt(rho_m) balances fluid kinetic energy against the shear threshold of protective corrosion films (such as siderite / iron carbonate). If velocity exceeds Ve, shear stress strips the protective scale faster than it can reform, triggering accelerated erosion-corrosion.
When should the empirical C-factor be derated below 100?
When produced fluids contain entrained abrasive solids like formation frac sand or proppant, mechanical abrasive impingement destroys steel wall thickness at much lower velocities. API 14E guidelines recommend slashing the C-factor from 100 down to 65 - 80 in sand-producing wells.
Why can Corrosion Resistant Alloys (CRAs) utilize higher C-factors (150-200)?
Materials like 22Cr duplex stainless steel, super duplex, or 316L form an extremely tenacious, self-healing chromium oxide passive film that is significantly more resistant to turbulent shear stripping than mild carbon steel, permitting velocities up to 1.5× to 2× higher without erosional degradation.