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Air Compressor Specifications
Cubic feet per minute (CFM) and standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM) describe the volume of air a compressor delivers at specific PSI levels. The CFM value changes as PSI changes. As you lower the PSI output, CFM increases.CFM is cubic feet per minute, which indicates the compressor’s flow rate – or the amount of air that a compressor can produce at a given pressure level. Typically compressors that have higher CFM ratings are able to provide more air, which makes them ideal for larger applications.
- 1, Reduce Outlet Pressure on your Air Compressor. …
- Change your Outlet Size. …
- 3, Hook up Two Air Compressors in Parallel. …
- Use an Auxiliary Storage Tank. …
- Improve the Efficiency of Your Air Compressor.
Contents
DOES CFM go up with PSI?
Air Compressor Specifications
Cubic feet per minute (CFM) and standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM) describe the volume of air a compressor delivers at specific PSI levels. The CFM value changes as PSI changes. As you lower the PSI output, CFM increases.
Is higher CFM better air compressor?
CFM is cubic feet per minute, which indicates the compressor’s flow rate – or the amount of air that a compressor can produce at a given pressure level. Typically compressors that have higher CFM ratings are able to provide more air, which makes them ideal for larger applications.
Does tank size affect CFM?
A straightforward rule for sizing an air receiver tank for a reciprocating air compressor is to take the tool with the highest CFM requirement at the required PSI, multiply that CFM requirement by 1.25 or 1.5, then round up to the closest gallon size.
What is a good CFM for air compressor?
Air tools made for general use with portable air compressors typically require 0 to 5 cubic feet per minute (cfm) at 70 to 90 pounds per square inch (psi), whereas with larger tools connected to stationary systems, the requirements usually exceed 10 cfm at 100 to 120 psi.
What PSI should I set my air compressor?
Most air tools require between 70 and 90 PSI. Any light-to-medium-duty air compressor can easily handle 90 PSI, but you always want the compressor to supply more flow than needed.
How do you increase airflow in HVAC?
- Check Vents and Registers. One of the simplest things you can do to increase airflow in your home is to check the vents and registers in each room. …
- Turn on Ceiling Fans. …
- Schedule HVAC Maintenance. …
- Consider Duct Cleaning. …
- Invest in a Ventilator.
How is air compressor CFM calculated?
The way to measure true power is to measure the time it takes to pump the reservoir tank of known volume from a known starting pressure to a known ending pressure. Then you can figure the true CFM from the difference in starting and final pressures, times the volume of the tank, divided by the time it took to pump up.
How does PSI affect CFM?
The difference between PSI and CFM is what they measure. PSI measures pressure, while CFM measures volume. PSI and CFM are performance specifications for air compressors and air-powered machinery. Together, they indicate the maximum air volume and pressure produced by an air compressor to power air tools.
How many CFM is a 5hp air compressor?
5 HP Air Compressor Pump, 18 CFM.
Does tank size matter air compressor?
The size of the compressor’s tank will help to determine the amount of time that your air tools can run before the air compressor shuts off and has to be turned on again. If you only require intermittent use of air-powered tools, you won’t need a compressor with a large tank size.
How many CFM do I need for air tools?
Air tools made for general use with portable air compressors typically require 0 to 5 cubic feet per minute (cfm) at 70 to 90 pounds per square inch (psi), whereas with larger tools connected to stationary systems, the requirements usually exceed 10 cfm at 100 to 120 psi.
What size air compressor do you need to run a sandblaster?
An air compressor which produces between 10CFM – 20 CFM is ideal for smaller sandblasting tasks. While a compressor which produces between 18CFM to 35 CFM is better for larger jobs where a more powerful experience is needed. While an industrial type of sandblasting needs a CFM of 50 – 100.
Air Compressor Simple Upgrade – CHEAP & EASY – Increase Tank Capacity! – YouTube
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Air Compressor Simple Upgrade – CHEAP & EASY – Increase Tank Capacity! – YouTube
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Adjusting HVAC Blower Speed CFM on Furnace & AC Units! – YouTube
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- Summary of article content: Articles about Adjusting HVAC Blower Speed CFM on Furnace & AC Units! – YouTube Updating …
- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for Adjusting HVAC Blower Speed CFM on Furnace & AC Units! – YouTube Updating In this HVAC Training Video, I Show How to Adjust the Blower Speeds on Furnace and Air Conditioning Units. I Show How to Determine What Speed is High and Low…acservicetech, repair, maintenance, how to, fix, hvac, hvacr, how do you, test, ac, service, tech, check, measure, read, superheat, subcooling, refrigerant, procedure, voltage, charging, temp, multimeter, freon, x-13, 2.3, 2.5, 2.7, 3.0, variable, speed, volume, cfm, cubic, feet, per, minute, airflow, air, conditioner, heat, pump, unit, system, furnace, heater, gas, blade, squirrel, cage, wire, terminal, park, psc, capacitor, ecm, motor, blower, fan, plug, adjust, change, lower, faster, course, class, school, 3 phase, 120, 240, volt, current
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PSI, CFM, and HP: Understanding Air Compressor Measurements
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Best Ways to Increase CFM On Air Compressors – How to Increase CFM Guide
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- Summary of article content: Articles about Best Ways to Increase CFM On Air Compressors – How to Increase CFM Guide The best way to increase CFM on an air compressor is to make some adjustments to your system such as adding another compressor pump or an air receiver tank … …
- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for Best Ways to Increase CFM On Air Compressors – How to Increase CFM Guide The best way to increase CFM on an air compressor is to make some adjustments to your system such as adding another compressor pump or an air receiver tank … Great news, you CAN increase the CFM output of your air compressor to run tools with a higher CFM rating – here’s how to increase CFM on your air compressor
- Table of Contents:
Table of Contents
How to Increase CFM of an Air Compressor
Methods for Increasing CFM on an Air Compressor
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Reader’s Questions Answered Increasing Air Compressor CFM
How To Increase CFM On An Air Compressor – Fix My Compressor
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- Summary of article content: Articles about How To Increase CFM On An Air Compressor – Fix My Compressor To increase your air compressor CFM you can try adding a second air receiver tank, adding a second compressor whether that be the same kind or … …
- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How To Increase CFM On An Air Compressor – Fix My Compressor To increase your air compressor CFM you can try adding a second air receiver tank, adding a second compressor whether that be the same kind or …
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Increasing Air Compressor CFM
How to Increase Air Compressor CFM
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
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How to increase cfm on air compressor – 4 quick ways – 2022 SPIKY TOOLS
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- Summary of article content: Articles about How to increase cfm on air compressor – 4 quick ways – 2022 SPIKY TOOLS Step 1: Lower the pressure to increase the CFM on the air compressor · Step 2: Connect two air compressors · Step 3: Add another tank · Step 4: Give the compressor … …
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How to Increase CFM on Air Compressor – DIY All Day
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- Summary of article content: Articles about How to Increase CFM on Air Compressor – DIY All Day Turning down the regulator pressure (PSI) based on the mathematics of your CFM. Many suggest turning it down to its lowest setting that is still functional. …
- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How to Increase CFM on Air Compressor – DIY All Day Turning down the regulator pressure (PSI) based on the mathematics of your CFM. Many suggest turning it down to its lowest setting that is still functional.
- Table of Contents:
What Is CFM
How to Check Compressor CFM
Understanding the Duty Cycle and Rating
How to Increase CFM on Air Compressor
Verdict on Increasing Air Compression
In Conclusion
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How to increase CFM on Air Compressor | Machine Handyman
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- Summary of article content: Articles about How to increase CFM on Air Compressor | Machine Handyman Lowering the PSI will ultimately increase the CFM and it’s a great way to increase CFM. If you have an air compressor with 9 CFM and 125 PSI, you will have 9 … …
- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How to increase CFM on Air Compressor | Machine Handyman Lowering the PSI will ultimately increase the CFM and it’s a great way to increase CFM. If you have an air compressor with 9 CFM and 125 PSI, you will have 9 … Matching the CFM of the air compressor with a certain air tool is essential. Learning how to increase CFM on air compressors in the right way is essential too.
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Guides to increase CFM on an air compressor
How much CFM needed to an Air Compressor
FAQs on How to increase CFM on Air Compressor
How to increase CFM on Air Compressor | Machine Handyman
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- Summary of article content: Articles about How to increase CFM on Air Compressor | Machine Handyman An effective method of increasing your air compressor’s CFM is to connect 2 compressors together in such situations. If you want more than 5 CFM … …
- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How to increase CFM on Air Compressor | Machine Handyman An effective method of increasing your air compressor’s CFM is to connect 2 compressors together in such situations. If you want more than 5 CFM … Matching the CFM of the air compressor with a certain air tool is essential. Learning how to increase CFM on air compressors in the right way is essential too.
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Guides to increase CFM on an air compressor
How much CFM needed to an Air Compressor
FAQs on How to increase CFM on Air Compressor
How To Increase CFM On Air Compressor | ToolsTeacher
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- Summary of article content: Articles about How To Increase CFM On Air Compressor | ToolsTeacher If you’re using an air compressor to power tools or other equipment, it’s important to make sure the cfm is high enough to meet your needs. …
- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How To Increase CFM On Air Compressor | ToolsTeacher If you’re using an air compressor to power tools or other equipment, it’s important to make sure the cfm is high enough to meet your needs. If you’re using an air compressor to power tools or other equipment, it’s important to make sure the cfm is high enough to meet your needs. If it’s not, you
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How to increase cfm on air compressor
DIY Tips and Hacks To Increase CFM
FAQS
Is Higher CFM better air compressor
Does tank size matter air compressor
How To Decrease CFM Of Air Compressor
Conclusion
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Five Effective Ways to Increase CFM on an Air Compressor – Air compressor repair knowledge at your finger tips.
Buyers making their first air compressor purchase often select small-sized tanks or low-pressure compressors for at-home or lightweight use. Over time, the air compressor may not keep up with their growing needs for compressed air. Pneumatic tools tend to be more affordable than their electric counterparts and pack an impressive punch if the compressor can provide enough airflow.
How can you increase the airflow, known as cfm, on your compressor? Five easy and effective ways to increase CFM on an air compressor are:
Reducing pressure Changing your outlet size Hooking up two air compressors Using an auxiliary storage tank Improving the efficiency of your system by servicing your compressor.
Read on to get a better understanding of how the airflow on your compressor works and the five ways you can increase your output airflow.
How to Increase CFM on an Air Compressor
If you need to increase airflow output from your air compressor for a specific tool or task, there are a few options that you may consider:
1, Reduce Outlet Pressure on your Air Compressor
Reducing the output pressure of your air compressor will help to increase the output airflow. Once your air compressor’s tank is pressurized, you have a certain volume of air that you can use until the compressor kicks back on again. If your tank pressure is much higher than your output pressure, you will increase the total volume of air that will leave your tank on a single charge.
For the same power rating on the same air compressor, by adjusting the pressure, you should get more airflow. Power is equal to the pressure multiplied by the volume over time – where volume over time is the cfm. If the power stays the same, then:
Old pressure x cfm = New pressure x cfm
This is the same assumption we used earlier for calculating for a new airflow at a different pressure than listed. If you had originally set the pressure to 125 and got 5 cfm, but wanted to see how much more airflow you would get at 90 psi, then:
125 psi x 5 cfm = 90 psi x New Cfm
New Cfm = (125 x 5) ÷ 90 = 6.94 cfm
The air compressor will run for a longer time when the output pressure is lower, as the tool will use a lower volume of air at a slower rate. At higher pressures, the air has a higher density, therefore, the air compressor has to work harder to compress the same volume of air, which will take longer. At this higher pressure, your tools will require a higher volume of air, emptying the tank faster than at a lower pressure.
You will be able to use your tools for a longer total period of time at a lower pressure than at a higher pressure because the air compressor will have an easier time keeping up with the demand for air.
The actual amount of airflow that your air compressor will produce may not actually be equal to the amount you calculated. This is because the outlet airflow is actually related to the difference in pressures between the output pressure and the tank pressure, rather than how much power the compressor needs to compress the air.
As you use the air in the tank, the pressure will decrease, even as the compressor works to fill it. The airflow will be highest when the pressures have the biggest difference, which is when the tank has been fully charged. The airflow will be at the lowest when the tank pressure is approaching the outlet pressure.
To explain it in a more mathematically correct way, we can use Bernoulli’s equation.
v2=c A (2 (p1-p2)g ρ)
V 2 = the outlet velocity
A = the area of the outlet
C = the coefficient of discharge, for a free opening of a tube assume 0.6
p 1 = The initial pressure, psi
p 2 = The final pressure, psi
ρ= The density of air, lbm/ft^3
G = the gravitational constant, 32.2 lbm*ft/lbf*s^2
You will need to look up the density of air at the temperature you’re using the compressed air in and the pressure you’re using the air at. You can find some charts online, such as on the Engineering Toolbox. It’s important to note, as well, that psi stands for pounds-force per square inch but density is typically noted in pounds-mass per cubic foot, so you’ll need to convert between inches and feet. You’ll also need to convert seconds in the gravitational constant to minutes.
If you have a ⅜” outlet, which is 0.11 in2, you can calculate the outlet velocity and therefore the cfm at your starting conditions. If you start with a tank pressure of 125 psi and are using the air at 90 psi:
cfm = 0.6 0.11 in21 ft2144in260 sec/min ((2 (125 lbfin2-90 lbfin2)144 in21ft2 32.2 ft s2)0.534lbft3)
cfm = 21.44 cfm
Knowing this equation, you can now calculate the starting airflow at your original pressures, or even an intermittent airflow at a lower pressure. Note that this equation is theoretical, meaning that it doesn’t count for losses in your system. Losses of efficiency can occur due to friction in the hose, friction in the fittings, or variations in the loss coefficient, or losses in your tool.
The coefficient of discharge might be much lower depending on the type of tool you use. The density of the air you use will also change with pressures and temperatures in your system.
Let’s run another example assuming your tank pressure is approaching the outlet pressure, 95 psi to 90 psi:
cfm = 0.6 0.11 in21 ft2144in260 sec/min ((2 (95 lbfin2-90 lbfin2)144 in21ft2 32.2 ft s2)0.534lbft3)
cfm = 8.10 cfm
As you can see, the airflow will decrease as the tank pressure decreases.
2. Change your Outlet Size
Some tools need a minimum pressure to operate which would prevent you from decreasing the outlet pressure enough to increase the airflow. Increasing the outlet hose size on your air compressor can increase the outlet airflow, by increasing the cross-sectional area where the air flows. The additional area lowers the amount of friction the air experiences as it flows through the length of the hose. The friction in the hose decreases the energy in the air which will slow it down.
As more airflow leaves your tank, your tank will empty faster. While the initial airflow will be higher, your run time will be shorter, decreasing the airflow and the pressure during use.
The hose size was one of the factors in the Bernoulli equation that we used in the previous method. We can demonstrate how the airflow will increase by plugging in different sizes of hose into the equation. Calculate the cross-sectional area of your hose using the area of a circle (or by looking it up online):
A=πr2
If you have a hose that is ½” in diameter, then the area of your hose is about 0.19 square inches, but if you have an inch ¾” tube, then the area is about .44 square inches. The interior diameter of your hose may not actually equal the nominal dimension of your tube. Check the specifications on the tube to find the actual inside diameter or use calipers to measure.
We can show the difference between ½” and ¾” tube, using the same pressures as before, you can see how the area changes the airflow:
cfm = 0.6 0.19 in21 ft2144in260 sec/min ((2 (125 lbfin2-90 lbfin2)144 in21ft2 32.2 ft s2)0.534lbft3)
cfm = 37.0 cfm
cfm = 0.6 0.44 in21 ft2144in260 sec/min ((2 (125 lbfin2-90 lbfin2)144 in21ft2 32.2 ft s2)0.534lbft3)
cfm = 85.75 cfm
Again, these equations are theoretical, so the actual airflow value will be much lower due to losses in the system. However, these results of calculating the airflow show that increasing the size of your outlet hose can increase the airflow through your tools.
3, Hook up Two Air Compressors in Parallel
Another option to increase the airflow at your tools is to hook up to air compressors in parallel. By connecting two air compressors that produce the same airflow rate at the same pressure, you can double the output airflow. The airflows are directly additive. While this doesn’t exactly increase the airflow on your air compressor, it achieves the goal of increasing the airflow at your tool.
To connect to air compressors together, you will need a few additional fittings and an extra length of hose. Connect the discharge hoses together through the straight ends of the tee, and the outlet hose to the side connection of the tee. If you can find a wye fitting, your system will have lower losses, making it more efficient.
If each air compressor can produce 5 cfm of airflow, then adding them together may provide 10 cfm of airflow, theoretically. However, again, the actual airflow produced through the tool might be a bit lower due to losses in the system.
4. Use an Auxiliary Storage Tank
Another method to help produce more airflow through your air compressor expands upon the idea in our first method, reducing the pressure on your regulator.
As we explained in the previous examples, reducing the outlet pressure allows you to produce more airflow for a longer period of time. The same idea applies to use of an auxiliary storage tank. Since the volume of the storage tank is larger than using your compressor alone, then the pressure will drop more slowly over time while you use your tools.
Remember that cfm stands for cubic feet per minute. If you use one cfm of air through your tool, then you will use a cubic foot of air in one minute. Since one cubic foot of air equals about 7.48 gallons, if you maintained one cfm of use and the air compressor never kicked on to refill the tank, you could use all the air in a 20 gallon tank in just a few minutes.
Of course, you won’t be able to sustain your target cfm as the pressure drops, and over time your air compressor will likely start to cycle to increase pressure back into your tank. This will allow you to continue using your tools for much longer.
5. Improve the Efficiency of Your Air Compressor
In the previous ways to increase the airflow on your air compressor, we mentioned several times that losses and inefficiencies in your system could reduce the airflow you get out of your tools. The easiest way to boost airflow in your system is to make sure that all the air that your compressor produces actually ends up coming out of your tool.
Quincy Compressors recommends a few ways to reduce losses in the output airflow of your air compressor:
Fix leaks in the system. Air leaks can often be heard through hissing sounds, but some smaller leaks may not be audible. Leaks often occur around fittings, such as the hose connections, pressure regulators, joints, and disconnects. Make sure all gaskets are in good condition and replace if the rubber hardens, wears down, or breaks down.
Use plumbers tape on fittings to help reduce air leaks and tighten down all threaded fittings properly, without over-torquing. You can fill a spray bottle with soapy water and spray carefully around fittings to detect leaks that aren’t audible while in use. Shut the compressor down to disconnect any fittings that need to be further tightened.
Reduce the total length of hose from the tank to your tool. As air moves the hose, it will encounter friction against the walls of the hose. The longer the hose, the more friction and therefore, more energy it will lose. Additionally, if there are any kinks, crimps, or fittings, those will also create friction losses in the system.
Select low pressure drop hoses. Low pressure drop hoses will have smooth interior walls. There are many pressure drop charts available online that show what the pressure loss in a specific diameter hose might be. Measure your length of hose and note the diameter.
For example, a ½” hose might lose 10 psi of pressure in just 50 feet of hose. Unlike reducing the pressure setting on your regulator, the pressure loss in the hose will actually reduce the speed of the air that comes out of the hose.
Reduce the number of fittings between your compressor and tools. Fittings add a lot of pressure loss to your system. Fittings might include valves, couplers, plugs, tees, and reducers. Every time the air hits a fitting, it loses pressure, velocity, and therefore, total airflow.
Don’t forget auxiliary equipment: If you use an auxiliary storage tank, second compressor, or inlet hose, check to make sure that you’ve reduced any losses in those components as well.
Ways to Decrease CFM on your Air Compressor
Some pneumatic tools are very sensitive and may need a lower airflow to operate properly without damaging the tool. With prolonged use at higher pressures or airflows greater than what they’re rated for, you may wear out the tool more quickly. The best way to prevent damage to tools with lower airflow needs is to lower the airflow on your air compressor.
Lowering the airflow on your air compressor works in reverse of many suggestions we highlighted to increase your airflow. Here’s a summary:
Increase the outlet pressure: While you don’t want to increase the output pressure of your air compressor too much above the recommended pressure of your tool, you can increase the pressure on your outlet. When the outlet pressure and the tank pressure have a smaller difference, the output airflow will be smaller. Decrease the hose size: Attaching a smaller hose on your air compressor will add pressure drop to your air compressor. This increased pressure drop will reduce how much airflow is available at the outlet. Additionally, you could increase the total length of the hose, add fittings into the system, or otherwise add additional pressure. Decouple secondary air compressors or tanks: If you don’t have a second air compressor or auxilliary tank, you can’t reduce your airflow by removing one. However, if you were desperate to reduce the airflow at your tool but had no other means, you could hook up a second tool or a bleed on the line to reduce airflow. While this method wastes compressed air that your air compressor worked hard to compress, it’s an effective way to decrease airflow.
How To Calculate CFM on an Air Compressor
CFM is the abbreviation for cubic feet per minute, a unit to describe the volumetric flow rate of air for air compressors.
PSI, CFM, and HP: Understanding Air Compressor Measurements
If you’ve been in the air compressor industry for any length of time, you’re likely familiar with the acronyms PSI (pressure), CFM (flow), and HP (power). These principles are essential in determining which size air compressor will fit your application – in fact, PSI, CFM, and HP are some of the most important elements to consider when selecting the best air compressor for your needs.
PSI vs. CFM vs. HP
PSI, CFM, and HP are the three main ratings that showcase exactly what a compressor can do.
PSI , or pounds per square inch, measures the amount of pressure placed on a square inch of space. In compressor terms, PSI is the amount of force that an air compressor can deliver.
, or pounds per square inch, measures the amount of pressure placed on a square inch of space. In compressor terms, PSI is the amount of force that an air compressor can deliver. CFM is cubic feet per minute, which indicates the compressor’s flow rate – or the amount of air that a compressor can produce at a given pressure level. Typically compressors that have higher CFM ratings are able to provide more air, which makes them ideal for larger applications.
is cubic feet per minute, which indicates the compressor’s flow rate – or the amount of air that a compressor can produce at a given pressure level. Typically compressors that have higher CFM ratings are able to provide more air, which makes them ideal for larger applications. HP is horsepower, or the amount of work that a motor can perform. HP is not as important as pressure and flow in determining if your compressor will work for you, as newer & more efficient compressors can do more with less HP! Doing more with less HP will save you energy, as well as will give you larger returns throughout the life of the compressor.
Things to Consider
No matter your application, it’s critical to understand the PSI, CFM, and HP that your application requires. This will ensure that your application receives sufficient air flow (CFM) at the correct pressure (PSI) – and that the air compressor is providing your pressure and flow as efficiently as possible.
Atlas Copco is always available to assist you in your compressor selection. Our experts will guide you in your selection based on your application’s specific needs and rating requirements. Reach out to us today at www.atlascopco.com/air-usa!
Best Ways to Increase CFM On Air Compressors – How to Increase CFM Guide
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The best way to increase CFM on an air compressor is to make some adjustments to your system such as adding another compressor pump or an air receiver tank for extra storage. Some tools require CFM ratings greater than your air compressors rating in order for them to successfully operate.
Here you’ll find recommendations on how to adjust your compressor so that you can reach your desired airflow rate (CFM).
Table of Contents
How to Increase CFM of an Air Compressor
To increase the CFM that you can draw from the outlet of your air compressor you have 2 main options; 1. increase the pumping capacity of your air compressor system or 2. Increase the air storage capacity of your system.
To be clear, none of these options will increase the inherent DESIGN specified CFM of your original compressor – that would take pump modifications.
BUT…
You’re not actually interested in increasing the CFM of your compressor PUMP (which is what’s specified in the user manual) what you’re actually interested in is increasing the CFM you can draw from the OUTLET of the air compressor tank – to allow you to run an air tool that has a higher specified working CFM than your compressor PUMP.
I explain this concept of CFM of the air compressor pump vs CFM of the whole air compressor system in my article explaining how to calculate CFM of an air compressor system.
If you’re confused as hell about CFM, it’s probably worth reading my article; what is CFM?
Whether you add more pumping capacity to your air compression system or more air storage capacity will depend on whether you have an intermittent or continuous demand for air for your air tool.
Increasing CFM for Cyclical or Intermittent Air Tool Use?
If you have short periods, intermittent, or a cyclical high demand for CFM that isn’t continuous you have more options for increasing CFM. Ultimately adding air storage capacity will enable you to increase the CFM of the system for a period of time dependent on the level of air storage.
Increasing CFM for Continuous Air Tool Use?
If you have a more continuous demand for a higher CFM (continuously running the air tool), your compressor pump CFM will need to match the demand of the air tool. Adding extra air storage capacity to the system will therefore not be a suitable option and you’ll be limited to options that add more pumping capacity (CFM) to the system.
Air Compressor Continuous vs Intermittent Running
Regardless of the cyclical, intermittent or continuous use of air tools connected to your compressor, it’s important to note that your air compressor will likely be designed for “cyclical operation”. When I talk about cyclical or continuous use above,
I am talking about the AIR TOOL.
The air compressor will be designed for periods of operation (pumping) followed by periods of idling (cooling down). This is called an air compressor duty cycle, which is typically expressed as a percentage, such as 50% – which means the compressor needs as much time cooling as it does when operating. Find out more about air compressor duty cycles in my comprehensive guide to compressor duty cycles.
Methods for Increasing CFM on an Air Compressor
Best methods for increasing CFM on air compressor systems:
Decreasing the pressure to increase CFM
Adding another compressor of the same CFM
Connecting two compressors together of differing CFM
Adding another air receiver tank
Increasing the size of the existing compressor
Decreasing the Pressure to Increase CFM
With the air pressure being built inside the air compressor, it is then forced out the outlet at a certain flow rate (CFM – volume/time). Every compressor has its power rating, and this power is equal to the pressure multiplied by CFM (air flow rate). As you cannot easily increase the compressor’s power beyond its limit, reducing the pressure in the system by dialing down a regulator will cause the CFM to increase – power remains constant.
If you’re familiar with air compressors, you may have already looked at this option before searching for ways to increase your air compressor CFM. However, many compressor users don’t realize that your compressor OUTLET CFM is variable based on the outlet pressure that you set.
If you have a compressor that’s rated at 4 CFM at 90 PSI, you can probably run a tool with a continuous demand for a CFM of 5, or even higher if the WORKING pressure required by the tool is around 40 or 50 PSI.
This is because, at the outlet of your air compressor tank, there is an inversely proportional relationship between CFM and PSI (within certain bounds).
So pay attention to your air tools’ CFM rating and their working pressure – it’s possible that the working pressure may be lower than 90 PSI, so you might be able to get an instant boost in CFM from your existing compressor.
Considerations of Decreasing the Pressure to Increase CFM
Suitable for continuous use of air tools (as long as compressor CFM exceeds tool CFM demand)
Suitable for intermittent use of air tools
The most cost-effective solution – it’s just adjusting your compressor
It relies on your air tool having a sufficiently lower working pressure than 90 PSI (as CFM ratings are typically specified at 90 PSI)
The relationship between CFM vs PSI is complex, so calculating the CFM your compressor can deliver at a lower outlet pressure could be extremely difficult – and unreliable. Try not to rely on this method for drastic increases in CFM (say more than 20-25%).
The CFM of your compressor at the lower pressure still needs to exceed the CFM demand of your air tool if the tool is to be utilized on a continuous basis.
Therefore, when it comes to continuous use, this methodology is limited to scenarios where your existing compressor is in fact capable of delivering your required CFM but at a lower outlet pressure than the standard compressor CFM rating at 90 PSI.
You may still be able to get away with an underrated compressor in terms of CFM at a lower pressure. If you’re not continuously drawing down a higher CFM than your compressor pump is capable of providing, your compressor tank will act as a reservoir allowing your compressor to “catch up” between AIR TOOL use cycles. But be careful not to exceed your air compressor duty cycle!
So even if this methodology gets you halfway to closing the gap between your compressed airflow demand and your compressor’s ability to supply, this might just be enough for many cyclical air tool use applications.
Adding Another of the Same Compressor to the System
Adding another compressor of the same CFM, brand, and model can help double your current air compressor CFM rating without adding control complexity.
This method increases the CFM of the air compressor pumping system, whilst also enabling a higher CFM at the air compressor tank/air pressure regulator outlet.
Once you have your duplicate air compressor in place, you can quite simply connect the two compressors together using some compressed air line and a T-piece air fitting. You then can plug your air tool or airline leading to your air tool into the outlet on the t-piece.
As the air compressors are the same make, model, and size, they’ll have the same cut-in and cut-out pressures set on their pressure switches, meaning there’s no synchronizing of control issues to overcome… great!
Considerations of Adding Another Compressor of a Similar CFM
Great for continuous air tool use applications – the air compressor system has a higher CFM
has a higher CFM Suitable also for intermittent air tool use
Not as cost-effective as a second compressor is purchased
Pressure switches should be identical, but manufacturing variations could mean some adjustment might be required to sync cut-in and cut-off pressures
Still need to check the DUTY CYCLE of the air compressors to size the air compressors correctly in relation to the air tool working CFM
A duplicate air compressor might be a more drastic approach to increasing your CFM if you haven’t got a continuous demand for higher CFM.
For example, a compressed air tank with a 5-11 gallon capacity, like this one from Performance Tool might cost you a fraction of the cost of a brand new second compressor – and still solve your low CFM problem (for short periods of continuous use).
Applications such as operating air wrenches and framing nail guns are examples of where a high CFM rating air compressor would be required for continuous use.
Connecting Two Compressors Together of Differing CFM
Similar to the last suggestion, but now focusing on connecting 2 air compressors of differing CFM, make and model. It’s as simple as it sounds. Not the process, but the concept.
If you have two compressors that have a 10 CFM and 5 CFM rating respectively, then connecting them together will give you 15 CFM of continuous flow rate.
The process of connecting the 2 compressors together involves the following steps:
Connect the outlets of the air receiver tanks using a t-piece air fitting Connect your compressed air hose to the outlet of the t-piece Connect your air tool to your air hose
Example T-Style Air Manifold for connecting 2 compressors together:
Considerations of Connecting Two Compressors Together of Differing CFM
Great for continuous use of air tools – the pumping capacity of the system has a higher CFM
Suitable for intermittent air tool use
Not as cost-effective if buying a new air compressor
Could be more cost-effective if you’re using a spare compressor or borrow from a friend or neighbor
Adjustable Air Compressor Pressure Switches will be required
Still need to check the DUTY CYCLE of the air compressors to size the air compressors correctly in relation to the air tool working CFM
Controlling Cut In of Two Different Compressors
Operating 2 different compressors of differing sizes, power, CFM, and even pressure can be a tricky business. It’s likely that the pressure switches for each compressor will be set to cut in at different pressures.
Now that the compressors share a storage volume (as their tanks are connected with a hose) the pressure in the system as a whole will trigger each compressor to cut in.
If the cut-in pressure of one compressor is 80 PSI and the other 90 PSI, the second compressor won’t cut in until the system drops below 80 PSI – and this will happen whilst the compressor that cut in at 90 PSI is working.
This is a control system issue – to prevent one compressor from doing all the work and ultimately yielding the true potential CFM of the system, you need to have the cut-in and cut-off pressure set the same.
This might mean you need to fit adjustable pressure switches to both compressors and synchronize them with a bit of manual work.
If you’re wondering how to adjust an air compressor pressure switch, I wrote a whole article dedicated to adjusting your pressure switch cut in and cut off pressure.
Adjusting the Pressure Switches
You must consider the pressure switches on both compressors, and if they have similar cut in and cut out points. If they do, then they will work approximately the same amount depending on your air tools’ air demand.
If you have a gap in the cut in between the two switches that are too big, however, one compressor will be doing all the work, starting and stopping much more frequently than the other. This will lead to increased maintenance requirements and potentially a short life span.
And, this ultimately lowers your peak CFM as the peak CFM is achieved when:
The tank is 99% full
Both compressor pumps are operating just prior to cutting out
If the system is 99% full and only the 10 CFM compressor is operating, the actual peak CFM capability of the system is equal to the 10 CFM compressor, plus the delivery capacity in the air tank.
Whereas, when the system is 99% full and both the 10 CFM and 5 CFM compressor are operating – the peak CFM of the system is equal to 10 + 5 CFM plus the delivery capacity in the air tank.
Adding Another Air Receiver Tank
Adding another air receiver tank will allow for the air compressor to fill both tanks (one with the compressor + the one added) offering you far greater storage of air. This will mean that the air compressor motor will run for a longer period before reaching cut-out pressure and stopping, allowing you to use your tools for a longer duration.
The compressor pump is now filling a larger volume and thus you have a greater amount of CFM due to the larger reservoir of pre-compressed air waiting to be used for your high demand air tool (oversimplification as an increased tank size changes the available CFM for a period of time, not the CFM of the system).
This is by far my favorite solution for increasing the CFM of your compressed air system.
I specifically say “compressed air system” as it’s not true to say that adding a second air tank to a compressor increases the “air compressor CFM” – that’s If you take “air compressor CFM” to mean “air compressor PUMP CFM”.
The CFM available at the OUTLET of the compressed air tank (or the air pressure regulator) is actually separated from the CFM of the Air Compressor PUMP by having air tanks to store the compressed air in (within limitations).
So I can actually get 15 CFM out of an air compressor SYSTEM even when the air compressor is rated to 5 CFM – I just need a big enough set of storage tanks, and 15 CFM would only be available for a fixed period of time – as the air compressor PUMP wouldn’t be able to keep up with the demand.
In addition to that…
Adding a second tank to an air compressor will allow the compressor to have more cooling time (assuming you’re not drawing more CFM from the system than the compressor pump can generate). This is because there’s now a greater volume of air stored, so your air tool can run for longer before the air in the tanks drops below the air compressor pump cut-in pressure.
So this is also a great way to help reduce the stress on your air compressor – if it’s got a 50% Duty Cycle and it spends 5 minutes on and 2 minutes off – you’re over-stressing it!
Check out my guide to air compressor duty cycles for more info.
Considerations of Adding Another Air Receiver Tank
Not ideal for continuous use of air tools (compressor will always be playing catch up)
Great for intermittent use of air tools (compressor gets given a chance to cool)
Cost-effective as only need to purchase another tank (not an entirely new compressor)
Need to size the tank correctly even for intermittent use (find out how to size an air compressor tank here)
Still need to check the duty cycle of the air compressors to size the air compressors correctly in relation to the air tool working CFM
It’s important to make sure your compressor is still operating within the limits of the duty cycle. Adding a tank to the system can actually decrease the working time vs idle time ratio, resulting in a reduction in the duty cycle even if the pump is actually running for longer.
This technique is a great way of reducing the load or how hard your compressor works, giving you the ability to allow it to operate at a lower duty cycle safely and whilst delivering the CFM requirements of your air tool.
This technique of increasing CFM can cause you to have to stop-start your work frequently if you are continuously drawing down air, that’s why this solution is better for stop-start or non-continuous applications as the compressor pump is given time to “catch up” with demand.
When the air receiver tanks drop below the cut-in pressure, the air compressor will require a greater amount of time to refill the tanks, as you now have a greater volume to refill than when you had just one tank.
This is a key consideration as the length of time the compressor runs, and the amount of time it spends idle (cooling down and not operating), have these duty cycle limits which are specified by your air compressors manufacturer. Operating a compressor outside its specified duty cycle runs the risk of causing permanent damage or even failure to the air compressor pump and motor.
Note, the bigger the tank, the longer the ‘periods of continuous’ use can be without the compressor essentially lagging behind demand. This ultimately leads to the system producing less than the required CFM.
The smaller the air receiver tank, the smaller the ‘periods of continuous use’ can be without the compressor ‘lagging behind’ demand.
An impact gun would be an example of a tool that sees short periods of continuous use in its typical use case.
On the other hand, a CNC machine or wet spraying gun might demand longer periods of use at their required CFM. This would either demand a huge air storage capacity using an underrated compressor or for you to actually increase the compressor pump delivery CFM capability.
Increasing the Size of the Existing Compressor Pump & Motor
Increasing the compressor pump can give you increased CFM which you can call upon continuously. Increasing the size of the motor won’t necessarily increase the CFM as the pump is typically designed to work with a specified motor size, so you essentially would end up with an oversized motor on a tiny pump.
Considerations of Increasing the Size of the Existing Compressor
Retrofitting a new compressor pump and motor to an existing tank may be marginally cost-effective depending on your tank size and age. In many cases, it may be more cost-effective to simply buy a new, higher CFM compressor complete with a tank suitable for your applications.
Please be vigilant in your research prior to making any changes to ensure that your air compressor is capable of them.
Summary of Methods to increase Compressor CFM
Below is a summary table of the methods to increase compressor CFM:
Method Difficulty (High/Mid/Low) Do you require extra components? Ideal for Continuous (C) or Intermittent (I) Use Decreasing the Pressure to Increase CFM Low No C Adding Another Compressor of a Similar CFM High Yes C & I Connecting Two Compressors Together of Varying CFMs High Yes I Adding Another Air Receiver Tank Med Yes C & I Increasing the Size of the Existing Compressor Pump & Motor Med Yes C & I Methods for Increasing CFM on an Air Compressor Summary Table
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is higher CFM better air compressor? The higher the CFM of your air compressor, the more air it is able to deliver. Whether it is better or not depends on your application – if you’re operating heavy air tools like impacting wrenches or nailing guns then the higher the CFM the better, but if you’re using more general use tools then that high CFM may not be necessary. What is a good CFM for air compressor? A good CFM depends on your tool requirements, typical air tools will only require 0-5 CFM from a small portable air compressor at 90 PSI. On the other hand, larger tools may require air compressors that exceed 10 CFM. Will an auxiliary tank increase cfm? It will increase the amount of CFM available (as you have greater storage and therefore can work for longer periods) but it does not increase the air compressor’s pump CFM. To increase the CFM of the actual air compressor you would need to increase the pump/motor sizes! How can I improve my air compressor performance? To improve your air compressors performance you could:
1. Improve the quality of the air intake
2. Improve system design
3. Determine the correct pressure needed
4. Minimize pressure drop
5. Maintain your compressor
Reader’s Questions Answered: Increasing Air Compressor CFM
Question: Can you increase CFM on an air compressor? Or Increasing SCFM?
This writer wants to know how to increase the CFM of their air compressor as the output is not enough for spray painting purposes. (The writer actually wanted to know about how to increase SCFM on an air compressor, but the fact that what we’re actually talking about here is CFM is dealt with quickly in the response).
The question: I understand that the rate of SCFM depends on many factors (temp, humidity, etc). However, I am trying to drive a Car Paint gun that states an 8 SCFM rating. My compressor runs at 5.7 SCFM @ 40 PSI.
Now, I could buy a new compressor to increase that, but I don’t really do this task very much, and was curious if I could do any of the following to increase SCFM?
Run two compressors, borrow my neighbors and connect them to a T and drive a mainline out that would connect to the filters and the gun?
Or could I connect a 10 Gallon tank that is connected from my main compressor and connects to the spare tank? I would set the main compressor to 90PSI, and put a regulator on the spare tank for 40PSI which the gun calls for?
Or if I am not thinking right at all please let me know what might make the most cost-effective solution.
Can you increase SCFM in air compressors like these, or any, for that matter?
Answer
My response: Hi Michael: Thanks for your question. You say your paint gun states “8 SCFM” at 40 PSI.
Just FYI, to my mind and definition, compressed air isn’t SCFM, it’s CFM since I understand that SCFM refers to pre-compressor Standard Cubic Feet per Minute. But besides that…
Your present compressor will give you 5.7 CFM at 40 PSI. What pressure and flow will your neighbor’s compressor provide? Is it big enough to give you all the flow you need at the 40 PSI?
You can certainly run two compressors to the same reservoir. As you point out, you’ll need to adjust the cut-out and cut-in pressures of the two compressors to have them work properly.
Having an extra air reservoir that fills when the paint gun isn’t running will be helpful. It’s hard to say how long you can paint with the air from that reservoir before you empty it and your compressor supply pressure drops to cut in and the compressor has to run again to try and fill the tank.
Original Poster’s Response
Michael’s Response: Thanks a lot for the great information, you are right, I did not say that I can’t run the guns currently because I don’t have enough SCFM.
About putting the T in the system:
1.) Would I just use a common 1/4 NPT fitting and run both compressors to it?
1.a.) In regards to the pressure switches, that would be a concern only if I did this as a full-time thing, but I could just set both compressors to 90PSI and let them run when the air is low correct? I just need to paint parts of the car about 1 – 3 hours tops before shutting down.
2.) Should I have an additional tank that receives the air from both tanks and then draws air from it. I would assume I could just punch a hole in the tank, thread the fitting and use a T to input air, then use a regulator to set the PSI out of the spare tank?
3.) Would it make any sense to punch a hole in my current compressor’s tank towards the bottom, and thread it for an NPT coupling through which another compressor would connect. This would fill the tank on top of the other compressor. I am not sure if threading new holes in the side of tanks is safe since the metal seams are thinner compared to the fittings that are in it from the factory.
Thanks again for all the help.
Anonymous Poster’s Response
Another visitor commented on Increase CFM:
Michael, your little compressor can not obviously compress air at the rate the paint gun can consume it. So how do you run your paint gun then?
You don’t mention it, but I’m thinking that you have a compressor that fills an accumulator tank, and that would be your available air supply. The volume of the tank is your CF (cubic Feet of storage). Depending on the size of the main tank, you will be able to use the paint gun at 5.7 SCFM until the tank was drawn down to the “cut-in” pressure (when the compressor would automatically turn on). At that point, you might as well take a break, let the compressor re-fill the tank and then rest (cool off and let the moisture condense).
By adding a second tank into the system, you have increased the system storage capacity (@ 90 psi), and will be able to run the paint gun for a longer interval. Put a regulator between the last air tank and the gun, and set at the tool pressure (40 psi). You will still face the same problem when the system capacity is drawn below what the compressor can produce.
I would definitely add a second tank, the larger the better. Just remember that it will take your compressor longer to fill the system, but more air volume will be available to your tools, and the compressor will not cycle as often.
If this doesn’t give you enough “paint time”, then borrow your good neighbor’s compressor and “TEE” it into the system. The combined SCFM outputs of the compressors will run the paint gun and fill up both tanks.
This is what I recently did in my shop when I added a second compressor (I posted it on this site). Because the compressors were not identical in size and HP, the pressure switches had to be replaced with adjustable ones, so that they both came on and off at the same time. In your case, as this is not an everyday project, you can manually play with the compressors to get them going at the same time.
I hope that this helped you.
Question: I want to increase my compressor pressure from 145 psi to 200 psi?
I want to increase my compressor pressure from 145psi to 200psi 60hp – 238cfm – 145psi
Answer
My Response: Rajesh, if the air compressor is not built to produce 200 PSI, then it won’t do it. If you try to adjust the cut-out pressure to a higher level, you are at risk of damaging the compressor, or possibly yourself, if the components in the compressor air circuit are not built for that pressure.
Check the specs on your air compressor to see what pressure it is rated for. If that pressure is not high enough for your needs, you need another air compressor!
Question: How to increase cfm of compressor
I’ve got a small 1.5HP, 6 gal, 2.5 CFM pancake Husky air compressor. That’s below the specs for most nailers. Could adding another 5-gal tank almost double its CFM?
Thanks
Answer
Nope, adding another tank will just give you that much more pre-compressed air, and that means that you will be able to nail longer before having to stop and wait for the compressor to catch up.
It also means that it will take longer for the compressor to come back up to cut out the pressure level.
You can’t increase CFM from a compressor without increasing the motor and/or the pump size.
What you can do is dial down the pressure on your regulator to the lowest pressure level your tool will work at. This will make your air charge last longer before the compressor has to restart to bring the pressure back up.
Question: How do I get more pressure to fill truck tire to 120 psi?
by Larry
(Waltham, Quebec, Canada)
I have recently purchased a new compressor.
Twin-piston, oil base. It is supposed to develop 125psi at max.
I am typing to fill truck tires that require 120psi, but it won’t go past 80 psi. The output gauge is set to 110 psi, and won’t go any higher. The tank gauge is showing 130psi, so in theory, I should be able to get these tires inflated to at least 110psi. Why can’t I get more than 80psi in these tires?
Answer
My Response: Larry, “It is supposed to develop 125psi at max.”, in my opinion, the output figures of air compressor suppliers are similar to those of the mileage claims for the car manufacturers. It just ain’t so!
You are, with your reputed 125 PSI compressor output, trying to fill a tire that needs 120 PSI. It may not be possible. Not only are you pushing the envelope for the air compressor (like driving your car with the pedal to the floor all the time) but you may also have issues with the accuracy of your air gauges. The cheapo kind installed on low-cost air compressors might have an accuracy of +/- 2-5 PSI from what you see on the gauge.
Now, you say that the “The output gauge is set to 110 psi,” and won’t go higher. I take this to mean that your air regulator is set for 110 PSI, and regardless of how you try to adjust it, you can’t get the gauge reading to go up past 110 PSI, even though the tank gauge shows 130 PSI?
That is strange. First, your air compressor is rated for 125 PSI, and you are seeing 130 PSI on the tank gauge. That may be the gauge inaccuracy I wrote about earlier, yet it does speak well that your air compressor can deliver the output it promises.
Do you have an airline to your tire chuck? Try this. Put a connect on an air gauge, and plug that air gauge onto the airline. If it, too, sees 110 PSI, then that is all your regulator is allowing through, and that may mean a bum regulator, if it is, indeed, rated for handling up to 130+ PSI.
Perhaps you might post a comment here with the results?
Question: How to increase compressor cfm?
by Mack
(Juneau, AK)
I currently have a compressor with a 3.2HP motor running at 1040 rpm producing 11.2 cfm @ 90psi. If I install a 5HP motor running @ 3240 rpm will it produce more cfm? If so what would be the max rpm I could do?
Answer
My Response: Howdy Mack. Nice to hear from you.
If the mechanical ability of your compressor can handle the higher RPM, then yes, in theory, you could get more CFM out of it.
However, I’d be willing to bet that by up-sizing the motor, you’ll destroy the compressor mechanically in fairly short order. They are designed and built to handle the motor that comes with them.
Good luck with your experiment.
Question: 2 compressors – plumb them together to increase flow?
by victor
(pa)
This sounds simple, but you know how that goes. If I want 12ish cfm can I just use (2) 6ish cfm compressors and some kind of Y connector to supply a sandblaster?
Answer
My Response: Victor, having two compressors supplying your application will increase the available flow, but whether or not you will get a true 12ish CFM or not remains to be seen.
If it were me I would have the two compressors feeding into one tank using the “Y” you spoke of, but upstream from the “Y” in the line from each compressor, you would need to put a one-way valve so that air can only flow downstream to the tank, and not back into the adjoining compressor tank.
Then I would plumb the line from the tank to my sandblaster or other air tools.
Question: I want more cfm
by Joe
(Minnesota)
I have 2 extra compressors sitting in a corner of my garage, and I want to get more CFM…
my current compressor is a 3 HP, 18 gal
I want to run about 8 cfm @40 psi
do I still need to check valves if I have output regulators on all 3 compressors set to the same psi, tee’d up, then run through my 3/4 NPT filter-regulator-oiler, and use the regulator on that to control working pressure? i use about 30 feet of 3/8 air hose on a reel…
If it works, I plan to put valves on all 3 so I can just run 1 or 2 and not have it charging all 3.
I am restoring old snowblowers, and find that I use air a lot.
Another issue is that I have had couplers freeze up in the winter, is there anything I can do to prevent this, I.E., put an ice-melting fluid in the oiler?
Answer
My Response: Joe… what, you have cold weather in Minnesota? Who’d have thought? 🙂
Bone dry air won’t freeze couplers, valves, cylinders, or air tools.
Some folks run anti-freeze through the airlines using an in-line lubricator. Not my thing.
Read the pages on air preparation or air treatment for solutions to drying air so that there is no water in the compressed air stream to freeze.
As to the airflow question, why not read Add A Tank and Add A Compressor, both linked from the site map. I hope I have explained the process fully. If, after reading, I’ve left any holes in info, post a comment here with the question.
Question: Is it possible to create a higher CFM rating on an air compressor?
by Jay
(Oakville)
I have an air compressor with a rating of 4.1 CFM @ 90 PSI. I need an air compressor at 5.4 CFM @ 90 PSI. Is there a way that I can make this compressor give me the CRM that I need or should I go buy a new compressor?
Answer
My Response: The output of an air compressor is predicated on the pump size and the motor capacity. The designers balance these two and then take into account the most important factor… cost.
So, they decided that they would build an air compressor with 4.1 CFM @ 90 PSI to fit their particular niche and cost formula.
You could tamper with the pressure switch settings to increase the cut-out pressure level. You could, also, destroy the compressor motor by overloading it in so doing.
Sorry, Jay, you need to really think about how much air you need for now and the future, and then get a new air compressor with even more capacity than that. Folks almost always used more compressed air capacity than they have.
Question: Increase CFM of Compressor?
Dear Sir,
I have an Atlas Copco screw air compressor with a rated capacity 500 cfm at 7.5 bar and 400 cfm at 10 bar.
I currently running the compressor at 10 bar, can I increase the flow from 400 cfm to 500 cfm by decreasing pressure to 7.5 psi? I have tried regulating the pressure switches. But there is no change in cfm. I need to know how can I increase the cfm of my compressor?
New Atlas Copco VSD air compressor
Photo: atlascopco.com
Answers
Compressor capacity
by: Bill
Unless you want to get into the physics side of it to understand why, and I don’t, it’s simpler for me just to understand that the higher the pressure output from a compressor, the lower the flow.
Your compressor is rated for 400 CFM at 7.5 bar you say, yet you are running it at 10 bar.
So, if you turn down the output pressure regulator to 7.5 bar from 10, your flow volume should increase to the 400 CFM as per the specs, if the compressor is running at efficiency.
In theory, and maybe practically too, if you don’t need air at 7.5 bar, turn the regulator down a little lower, and that should give you even more airflow at that lower setting… up to the maximum capacity of the compressor at that pressure, whatever that may be.
CFM
by: Doug in s.d.ca.
…is determined by the pump (screw) and the HP into it. So, the only way to increase the flow is to increase power input. You can’t do that.
However, I’m driven to ask why you want to do this – depending on your needs, a storage tank may get you what you need if you don’t require a *continuous* flow at a higher rate.
Usage?
by: Carl
Exactly what Bill says
What you need to find out is what tools/machines are you running? Do they actually need 10 Bar or even 7.5 Bar?
If you’re only using air tools then I’m sure you can turn it down but if you’re using CNC machines for example and they need the 10 Bar then you may need to ask yourself whether your compressor is powerful enough to cope?
What is your compressor’s power rated at, 5.5 kW? 7.5kW? More?
Let us know?
If you have any questions regarding the best ways to increase air compressor CFM, please leave a comment below, with a photo if applicable, so that someone can help you!
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