The following equations are for the novice chromatographer.  More advanced calculations can be found on the system suitability and pressure-flow pages.

1. Calculation of total column volume (also used for calculating bed volume)
2. Calculation of empty column linear flow rate from volumetric flow rate
3. Calculation of volumetric flow rate from empty column linear flow rate

1.  Calculation of total column volume (also used for calculating bed volume):

Where: 
V = calculated column volume
r = column radius
L = length of the column (or packed bed)

2.  Calculation of empty column linear flow rate from volumetric flow rate:

Where: 
u = Linear flow rate (cm/hr)
F = volumetric flow rate (mL/hr) [multiply mL/min x 60 min/hr]
r = column radius (cm)

3.  Calculation of volumetric flow rate from empty column linear flow rate

Where: 
F = volumetric flow rate (mL/hr) [divide by 60 min/hr to get mL/min]
u = Linear flow rate (cm/hr)
r = column radius (cm)