The inlet and outlet of a tank should be what size?

The correct answer is that the inlet and outlet of a tank should be the same size, within an acceptable range of variability. This design choice is crucial for maintaining balance in the flow of liquids in and out of the tank.

When both the inlet and outlet are of the same size, it helps to ensure that the tank can fill and drain efficiently without creating unnecessary pressure differentials that could lead to operational issues or slow flow rates. A uniform size allows for predictable fluid dynamics, which is particularly important in applications where precise control of fluid volume and flow rate is necessary.

Variations in size can create turbulence or increased velocity in certain areas, which may lead to erosion or cavitation, affecting the system's overall reliability and longevity. Moreover, differences in size can complicate filling and discharging processes, resulting in time delays and inefficiencies. Therefore, maintaining the same size for both the inlet and outlet is a fundamental aspect of tank design that enhances performance and operational safety.