1. What is Air Compressor CFM?

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) measures the airflow capacity of an air compressor. It represents the volume of air the compressor can deliver per minute and is crucial for determining if a compressor can adequately power air tools and equipment.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the CFM formula:

Where:

• \( RPM \) — Rotations per minute of the compressor
• \( Displacement \) — Compressor displacement in cubic inches
• \( 1728 \) — Conversion factor (12³ inches to cubic feet)
• \( Efficiency \) — Compressor efficiency as a percentage

Explanation: The formula calculates theoretical airflow and adjusts for real-world efficiency losses to provide actual CFM output.

3. Importance of CFM Calculation

Details: Accurate CFM calculation is essential for selecting the right compressor for specific applications, ensuring tools operate efficiently, and preventing compressor overload or underperformance.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter RPM in revolutions per minute, displacement in cubic inches, and efficiency as a percentage (0-100%). All values must be positive numbers within reasonable ranges.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between SCFM and CFM?
A: SCFM (Standard CFM) measures airflow at standard conditions (68°F, 0% humidity), while CFM measures actual airflow at current conditions. Our calculator provides actual CFM.

Q2: What is typical compressor efficiency?
A: Most compressors operate at 70-85% efficiency. Higher quality compressors may reach 90% or more.

Q3: How much CFM do common tools require?
A: Impact wrenches: 2-5 CFM, Sanders: 5-8 CFM, Spray guns: 4-12 CFM, Nail guns: 0.5-2 CFM.

Q4: Why is the 1728 conversion factor used?
A: 1728 converts cubic inches to cubic feet (12 inches × 12 inches × 12 inches = 1728 cubic inches per cubic foot).

Q5: Can I use this for multiple compressor stages?
A: This calculator is for single-stage compressors. Multi-stage compressors require more complex calculations.