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Tank Gallons Per Inch Calculator For Gas

Gallons Per Inch Formula:

\[ \text{Gallons\_per\_inch} = \frac{\pi \times r^2}{231} \]

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1. What is the Gallons Per Inch Calculation?

The Gallons Per Inch calculation determines how many gallons of liquid a cylindrical tank holds per vertical inch of height. This is particularly useful for gas tanks to estimate fuel levels based on depth measurements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \text{Gallons\_per\_inch} = \frac{\pi \times r^2}{231} \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula calculates the volume of a cylinder with 1-inch height, then converts from cubic inches to gallons.

3. Importance of Gallons Per Inch Calculation

Details: Knowing gallons per inch helps in fuel management, tank calibration, and creating accurate dipstick measurements for cylindrical tanks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the tank radius in inches. The radius is half of the tank's diameter. Ensure the value is positive and accurate for precise results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 231 used in the formula?
A: 231 cubic inches equals one US gallon, which is the standard conversion factor for liquid volume.

Q2: Does this work for non-cylindrical tanks?
A: No, this formula is specifically for perfect cylinders. Other tank shapes require different calculations.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's mathematically precise for perfect cylinders, but real-world tanks may have variations due to manufacturing tolerances.

Q4: Can I use this for other liquids besides gas?
A: Yes, the calculation works for any liquid as long as you're using US gallons. The liquid density doesn't affect the volume calculation.

Q5: What if my tank is horizontal instead of vertical?
A: The calculation becomes more complex for horizontal tanks as the volume per inch varies with the fill level.

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