What does the formula P = 62.4 divided by 144 x D help to determine?

The formula P = 62.4 divided by 144 x D is used to calculate the pressure exerted by water at a certain depth. In this formula, P represents the pressure in pounds per square foot (psf), while D represents the depth of the water in feet. The constant 62.4 is the weight density of water measured in pounds per cubic foot (pcf), and dividing it by 144 converts the pressure into a square foot basis, allowing the calculations to be more manageable for practical plumbing scenarios.

Understanding this formula is vital for plumbing contractors, as it helps them determine how much pressure a plumbing system will experience at various depths of water, an essential factor when designing and installing water systems, ensuring they can handle the required pressure without failure. This knowledge directly impacts safety and functionality in plumbing systems.