Shop Air Compressors by CFM
CFM (cubic feet per minute) is the number that actually sizes an air compressor. Horsepower tells you how big the motor is; CFM tells you how much air the machine delivers at working pressure, and that is what your tools and your production line consume. Pick the compressor by adding up the CFM of the tools that run at the same time, then add 25 to 30 percent for leaks, growth and duty cycle.
Shop by CFM rating
- 5 CFM air compressors: nailers, blow guns, inflators, airbrush. 1 to 2 HP, 120 volt.
- 10 CFM air compressors: two person nailer crews, impact wrenches, small blast cabinets. 2 to 4 HP.
- 15 CFM air compressors: the standard 5 HP two stage shop compressor for two bay garages and small fab shops.
- 20 CFM air compressors: 5 HP high output and 7.5 HP two stage units for body shops and four bay service shops.
- 25 CFM air compressors: 7.5 HP piston units, gas drive contractor compressors and small rotary screws.
- 30 CFM air compressors: 10 HP piston, duplex packages and 7.5 to 10 HP rotary screws for production shops.
- 15 to 20 CFM range: the whole 5 HP class on one page.
Pages for 35 CFM and up, through 375 CFM towable and industrial rotary screw compressors, are being added. In the meantime see rotary screw air compressors, towable air compressors and the full air compressor catalog.
How CFM ratings are stated
Small compressors are usually rated at 90 PSI. Two stage industrial piston compressors and rotary screws are rated at their maximum working pressure, typically 100 to 175 PSI, and the same machine delivers more air at lower pressure. When you compare models, check the pressure the CFM figure was measured at. Rotary screw and scroll compressors publish free air delivery per ISO 1217; piston compressors are often quoted as displacement, which is 20 to 30 percent higher than delivered air.
Common tool air consumption
| Tool | CFM at 90 PSI (continuous) |
|---|---|
| Framing or finish nailer | 2 to 3 |
| 1/2 inch impact wrench | 4 to 5 |
| Die grinder | 5 to 8 |
| HVLP spray gun | 8 to 12 |
| Dual action sander | 11 to 13 |
| 1 inch impact wrench | 10 to 12 |
| Sandblast cabinet, 1/4 inch nozzle | 25 to 30 |
| Pressure pot blaster, 3/8 inch nozzle | 80 to 100 |
Need help sizing a system, a dryer or a receiver tank? Use the dryer CFM calculator or contact us with your tool list.
