Pneumatics

Air Compressor Sizing

Calculate CFM requirements based on tools and usage patterns.

Input Parameters

Units:

Calculation Mode

Air Consumption per Tool

CFM

Number of Tools

Usage Factor

Operating Pressure

psi

Results

Enter parameters and click Calculate

What is Air Compressor Sizing?

Proper air compressor sizing ensures you have sufficient airflow (CFM) and pressure (PSI) to run your pneumatic tools without pressure drops or excessive compressor cycling.

An undersized compressor causes tools to perform poorly and wears out the compressor. An oversized one wastes energy and costs more upfront.

How to Use

Select sizing mode (size compressor or calculate tank capacity)
Enter CFM requirement per tool from tool specifications
Enter number of tools that may run simultaneously
Select usage factor based on how tools are used
Click Calculate for recommended compressor specs

FAQs

CFM is actual cubic feet per minute at operating conditions. SCFM is standardized CFM at sea level (14.7 psi, 68°F). Compressor ratings should state conditions. At altitude, you need more displacement CFM to deliver the same SCFM due to thinner air.

Duty cycle is the percentage of time a compressor can run. Piston compressors typically have 50-75% duty cycle - they need cooling time. Rotary screw compressors can run 100% duty cycle. Exceeding duty cycle causes overheating and premature failure.

Use 0.5 psi max pressure drop as a guideline. For 100 ft of pipe at 100 psi and 20 CFM: 3/4" pipe. Larger tools or longer runs need bigger pipe. Online calculators or compressed air sizing charts help with specific scenarios.

Compressed air contains moisture that can damage tools, cause rust, and affect paint finish. Refrigerated dryers are adequate for most shop use. Desiccant dryers provide dryer air for critical applications like painting or pneumatic instruments.

Daily: drain tank condensate. Weekly: check oil level (if applicable). Monthly: clean air filter, check belts. Quarterly: change oil, inspect valves. Annually: professional inspection. Follow manufacturer schedule for your specific unit.

Limitations

• Does not account for altitude derating
• Piping losses not included - add capacity for long runs
• Usage factor is an estimate - actual use may vary
• Different compressor types have different efficiencies
• Verify CFM ratings at your required pressure