What Is the Fuel Flow Rate Converter?
Fuel flow rate quantifies the volume or mass of fuel consumed by an internal combustion engine, gas turbine, or boiler per unit of time.
General aviation and marine operators commonly track consumption in Gallons per Hour (GPH), while commercial aviation relies on mass pounds or kilograms per hour.
How Does the Fuel Flow Rate Converter Work?
Volumetric conversion applies 1 US Gallon = 3.785411784 Liters.
Mass flow is derived by multiplying hourly volume by fuel density (0.72 kg/L for Avgas, 0.804 kg/L for Jet-A).
Fuel Flow Rate Converter Formula & Variables
The core mathematical equation utilized by this calculator is expressed as:
Fuel burn rate translates between volumetric gallons/liters and gravimetric weight per hour using fuel density.
How to Use the Fuel Flow Rate Converter
- Enter the engine fuel flow rate.
- Choose whether input is in US GPH or LPH.
- Select the fuel type to obtain accurate mass consumption in lbs/hr and kg/hr.
Step-by-Step Example Calculation
Cessna 172 Cruise (8.5 GPH Avgas)
Input Values:
Understanding Your Result
Light single-engine piston aircraft typically burn 7 to 15 GPH.
Twin-engine turboprops and light corporate jets burn 80 to 200+ GPH.
Factors That Affect the Result
- Power Setting & Mixture: Leaning aircraft engine mixtures from best-power to best-economy reduces GPH by 10%–20%.
- Fuel Temperature: Warm fuel expands in volume, slightly reducing mass per gallon.
When Should You Use This Calculator?
- Flight planning, fuel endurance, and mandatory legal reserve calculations.
- Marine boat cruising range and generator runtime planning.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Calculations use standard fuel density values at 15°C (59°F).
Frequently Asked Questions
Calculation Accuracy & Reference Note
Implements standard FAA and ICAO fuel density specifications.