Definition

1. Noun:
   • A measuring instrument for fluid flow velocity: A pitot tube is a device used to measure the speed of a moving fluid (like air or water). It typically consists of a tube with an opening pointed directly into the fluid flow.
   • A combined aircraft instrument: In aviation, a pitot tube often refers to a specific instrument that combines a Pitot tube and a static tube to measure an aircraft's airspeed by comparing total (dynamic) pressure and static pressure.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The engineer installed a pitot tube to measure the wind speed in the tunnel.
  • Before takeoff, the pilot checked that the pitot tube was clear of ice or debris.
  • The data from the pitot tube is crucial for calculating the aircraft's velocity.

Advanced Usage

• "Pitot-static system": This is the complete system on an aircraft that uses the pitot tube (for dynamic pressure) and static ports (for static atmospheric pressure) to provide information for the airspeed indicator, altimeter, and vertical speed indicator.
  • A blockage in the pitot-static system can give erroneous instrument readings.

Variants and Related Words

• Pitot head: Another term for the external, forward-facing part of a pitot tube, especially on an aircraft.
• Pitot pressure: The total pressure (static + dynamic) measured by the pitot tube.
• Static port: The component used in conjunction with a pitot tube to measure static pressure.

Synonyms

• Flow sensor: A general term for a device that measures fluid flow rate.
• Airspeed probe: A specific term for a pitot tube used on aircraft.

Related Phrases

• Pitot tube icing: A hazardous condition where ice blocks the opening of the tube, preventing accurate airspeed measurement.
  • The aircraft's manual has procedures for dealing with suspected pitot tube icing.
• To calibrate a pitot tube: The process of adjusting or checking the accuracy of the instrument.
  • The mechanics will calibrate the pitot tube during the annual inspection.

Noun

1. measuring instrument consisting of a combined Pitot tube and static tube that measures total and static pressure; used in aircraft to measure airspeed
2. measuring instrument consisting of a right-angled tube with an open end that is directed in opposition to the flow of a fluid and used to measure the velocity of fluid flow