Flow Rate Converter
Convert a volumetric flow rate between common metric and US customary units
Converted flow rate
How we calculated it
About the Flow Rate Converter
Flow Rate Converter changes volumetric flow between units such as litres per minute, gallons per minute, cubic metres per hour and cubic feet per second. It is useful for pumps, plumbing, irrigation and process systems where capacity is quoted in different units.
A flow rate combines volume and time, so both parts of the unit must be converted. Changing only the volume unit or only the time unit will produce the wrong result.
How to Use the Flow Rate Converter
- Enter the known flow rate.
- Identify its current volume-per-time unit.
- Select the target flow-rate unit.
- Convert and keep the same physical flow basis, such as U.S. gallons versus Imperial gallons.
How the Calculation Works
The converter maps the source rate to a common volume-per-time basis and then applies the target volume and time factors.
For example, converting litres per minute to litres per second divides by 60, while converting U.S. gallons to litres also multiplies by the appropriate gallon conversion factor.
Worked example
Flow Rate Converter Worked Example
120 L/min to L/s
120÷60 = 2 L/s.
Result guide
Understanding Your Flow Rate Converter Result
The result represents the same volumetric flow expressed in another unit. It does not account for pressure losses, pipe diameter or pump performance.
Before you rely on the answer
Assumptions and Limitations
- Source and target units are volumetric flow units.
- U.S. and Imperial gallon conventions are identified correctly.
- Flow is treated as a steady average rate.
Practical tip
Using This Result in Practice
For pump and irrigation work, convert the rated flow first, then check whether the system can actually deliver that rate at the required pressure or head. Unit conversion alone does not validate pump sizing.
Related calculations
Useful Calculations to Continue With
If you know tank volume and converted flow and want fill duration, use the Water Tank Fill Time Calculator.
If airflow rate and duct area are known and you need air velocity, use the Duct Velocity Calculator.
Common questions
Flow Rate Converter FAQ
How do I convert litres per minute to litres per second?
Divide by 60.
Are U.S. and Imperial gallons per minute equal?
No. The gallon definitions differ.
Does converting flow rate account for pressure?
No. It changes units only.