Air compressors are powerful tools used in a variety of industries for a wide range of applications. But what is CFM in air compressors, and why is it so important? CFM stands for cubic feet per minute and is a measure of the amount of air being compressed in the air compressor. It is a measure of the compressor’s output and the amount of air pressure it can produce.
In this article, we’ll look at what CFM is, why it’s important, and the different types of air compressors available with CFM ratings of 1 and under.
What is CFM?
Contents
CFM stands for cubic feet per minute and is a measure of the volumetric flow rate of air passing through a compressor. It is a measure of the compressor’s output and the amount of air pressure it can produce. The higher the CFM of an air compressor, the more air it can produce in a given time.
For example, a 1 CFM air compressor is capable of producing 1 cubic foot of air within a minute. This means that it can produce a volume of air that could fill a box with sides measuring 1 foot long, 1 foot wide, and 1 foot high.
Why is CFM Important?
CFM is an important factor to consider when selecting an air compressor since it affects the compressor’s performance and the type of applications it can be used for. The higher the CFM rating of an air compressor, the more air it can produce in a given time. This means that it can be used for more demanding applications that require more air pressure and more air flow.
For example, an air compressor with a 1 CFM rating may be suitable for smaller air tools such as brad guns or staplers, but it would not be suitable for larger air tools such as impact wrenches or grinders.
Types of Air Compressors with 1 CFM & Under
There are a variety of air compressors available with CFM ratings of 1 and under. These types of air compressors are typically used for smaller, less demanding applications such as inflating tires or running small air tools.
The most common types of air compressors with 1 CFM & under are:
1. Pancake Air Compressors
Pancake air compressors are one of the most popular types of air compressors with 1 CFM & under. These compressors are lightweight, portable, and typically have a CFM rating of 1 or less. They are well-suited for small, light-duty applications such as running an airbrush.
2. Hot Dog Air Compressors
Hot dog air compressors are a type of air compressor that is similar to pancake air compressors in terms of size and portability. They typically have a CFM rating of 1 or less and are well-suited for light-duty applications such as running a small air tool.
3. Portable Air Compressors
Portable air compressors are larger than pancake and hot dog air compressors and typically have a CFM rating of 1 or less. They are portable, but they are more powerful than pancake and hot dog air compressors, making them well-suited for larger, more demanding applications such as running an impact wrench.
Conclusion
CFM is an important factor to consider when selecting an air compressor since it affects the compressor’s performance and the type of applications it can be used for. Air compressors with 1 CFM & under are typically used for smaller, less demanding applications such as inflating tires or running small air tools. The most common types of air compressors with 1 CFM & under are pancake air compressors, hot dog air compressors, and portable air compressors.