Technical Reference

Fitting Loss Coefficients

For similar fittings, the K-value is highly dependent on things such as bend radius and
contraction ratios.

Typical Fitting K Coefficients

Fitting K Value Fitting K Value

Pipe Entrance 90 Smooth Bend

Bellmouth 0.03-0.05 Bend Radius / D = 4 0.16-0.18

Rounded 0.12-0.25 Bend Radius / D = 2 0.19-0.25

Sharp-Edged 0.50 Bend Radius / D = 1 0.35-0.40

Projecting 0.80 Mitered Bend

ContractionSudden T = 15 0.05

D2/D1 = 0.80 0.18 T = 30 0.10

D2/D1 = 0.50 0.37 T = 45 0.20

D2/D1 = 0.20 0.49 T = 60 0.35

ContractionConical T = 90 0.80

D2/D1 = 0.80 0.05 Tee

D2/D1 = 0.50 0.07 Line Flow 0.30-0.40

D2/D1 = 0.20 0.08 Branch Flow 0.75-1.80

ExpansionSudden Cross

D2/D1 = 0.80 0.16 Line Flow 0.50

D2/D1 = 0.50 0.57 Branch Flow 0.75

D2/D1 = 0.20 0.92 45 Wye

ExpansionConical Line Flow 0.30

D2/D1 = 0.80 0.03 Branch Flow 0.50

D2/D1 = 0.50 0.08

D2/D1 = 0.20 0.13

Bentley WaterCAD V8i Users Guide 18-1155