The CFM (cubic feet per minute) you need depends on the total air consumption of your equipment and how it is used. Getting this right is essential – too little airflow will cause pressure drops and poor performance, while too much can lead to unnecessary energy costs.
At Avelair, we recommend calculating your CFM requirement using the following approach:
List all air-powered equipment – include every tool, machine or process that uses compressed air
Check individual CFM ratings – these are usually provided by the manufacturer of each tool or machine
Account for simultaneous use – only include equipment that will run at the same time
Add a safety margin – typically 10–20% to allow for leaks, inefficiencies and future demand
For example, if your equipment requires a combined 100 CFM, you should typically size your compressor for around 110–120 CFM to ensure consistent performance.
It’s also important to consider:
Duty cycle – continuous-use applications require a more robust solution
System losses – pipework, filters and dryers can all affect airflow
Future expansion – additional capacity avoids the need for early upgrades
For more complex systems, a professional air audit provides the most accurate assessment. Avelair can measure your actual air usage and recommend the correct compressor size to ensure efficiency, reliability and long-term cost savings.