Collection: 20 CFM Air Compressors

This page groups compressors rated roughly 18 to 22 CFM. That output covers a three or four bay service shop, a body shop with one paint booth, a cabinet shop, or a small manufacturing cell where several tools run at once. Most machines are 5 HP high output or 7.5 HP two stage piston units on 80 gallon tanks, with a few oil free scroll compressors for clean air applications.

Who buys 20 CFM

Shops that outgrew a standard 5 HP compressor but do not want the cost of a rotary screw. A 7.5 HP two stage piston compressor from ABAC, Champion, Quincy or Chicago Pneumatic gives 20 to 24 CFM at 175 PSI, cycles less than a 5 HP unit under the same load, and is still simple to service. The higher pressure rating means more stored air per gallon of tank than a 135 PSI single stage.

Power and installation

Plan on 230 volt single phase at about 40 amps, or three phase where available. Bolt the unit to the floor on isolation pads, leave 18 inches of clearance around the pump for cooling air, and run the discharge through an aftercooler or a drop leg with a drain before it reaches the dryer.

Dryer sizing

Pair a 20 CFM compressor with a 25 to 30 CFM refrigerated air dryer. If the compressor sits in a hot mechanical room, go a size larger; dryer capacity drops fast as inlet temperature rises above 100 degrees F.

Related pages

• 15 CFM air compressors
• 25 CFM air compressors
• 15 to 20 CFM air compressors
• Refrigerated air dryers