1. What is a Pneumatic Cylinder CFM Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the Standard Cubic Feet per Minute (SCFM) of air flow required for a pneumatic cylinder based on its specifications.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians properly size air compressors and pneumatic systems for industrial applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( SCFM \) — Standard Cubic Feet per Minute
• \( A \) — Piston area (square inches)
• \( S \) — Stroke length (inches)
• \( P \) — Operating pressure (psi)
• \( N \) — Cycles per minute

Explanation: The formula calculates the volume of compressed air needed at standard conditions to operate the cylinder at specified parameters.

3. Importance of CFM Calculation

Details: Proper CFM calculation ensures your air compressor can adequately supply the pneumatic system, preventing performance issues and equipment damage.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the piston area, stroke length, operating pressure (default 100 psi), and cycles per minute (default 10). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between CFM and SCFM?
A: CFM is actual flow rate, while SCFM is standardized to 14.7 psi at 68°F for comparison purposes.

Q2: How do I find the piston area?
A: For round cylinders, area = π × (bore diameter/2)². For other shapes, use appropriate area formulas.

Q3: Why is atmospheric pressure (14.7 psi) in the formula?
A: It converts gauge pressure (P) to absolute pressure for accurate volume calculations.

Q4: Should I include the return stroke in calculations?
A: For double-acting cylinders, multiply the result by 2 to account for both strokes.

Q5: How does temperature affect the calculation?
A: This formula assumes standard temperature (68°F). For other temperatures, additional corrections are needed.