How to increase CFM on air compressor: a step-by-step guide

Air compressors are powerful tools that are essential for a variety of industries, and the CFM of a compressor is an important factor to consider when selecting one. CFM is the measure of the compressor’s ability to deliver a specific volume of air at a specific pressure.

In this article, we will discuss the various methods how to increase CFM on air compressor, including upgrading to a larger compressor, adding a second compressor, adding a second air receiver tank, lowering the pressure, connecting compressors with different CFMs, and increasing the capacity of the compressed air unit.

What does CFM mean in an air compressor?

Before diving into the methods of how to increase CFM on air compressor, it’s important to understand what CFM means in an air compressor. Simply put, it’s a measure of the amount of air that the compressor can deliver in a given period.

The higher the CFM, the more air the compressor can deliver, and the more powerful it is. Additionally, the CFM rating of a compressor is often affected by several factors such as the compressor’s pump size, the efficiency of its components, and the altitude at which it operates.

Is a higher Air Compressor CFM better?

So, is a higher CFM air compressor better? The answer is yes and no. A higher CFM compressor can handle larger and more demanding tasks, but it may also come with a higher price tag. Additionally, a compressor with a higher CFM may not be necessary for your specific needs, so it’s important to consider your air tool requirements and budget when making a decision.

Air tools

Air tools, also known as pneumatic tools, are powered by compressed air and are commonly used in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and automotive repair. Air tools are known for their high power-to-weight ratio and are typically more durable and efficient than electric or battery-powered tools.

Examples of air tools include impact wrenches, air hammers, air ratchets, and air grinders. Air tools are connected to an air compressor via an air hose. The air hose supplies the compressed air needed to operate the tool. Compressed air is also used to cool the tool, prolonging its lifespan.

Air tools are versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications, from heavy-duty tasks such as tightening bolts to more delicate tasks such as sanding and polishing. Air tools are preferred by professionals for their high performance, reliability, and durability.

Upgrading to a larger compressor

One of the most effective ways how to increase CFM on air compressor is by upgrading to a larger compressor.

A larger compressor will have a higher CFM rating and will be able to deliver more air, making it more powerful and suitable for larger and more demanding tasks. However, a larger compressor is also more expensive and may require additional space and power.

Additionally, it’s important to consider the specific needs and budget of your operation before making a decision, as upgrading to a larger compressor may not be the most cost-effective solution.

Adding a second compressor

Another way how to increase CFM on air compressor is by adding a second compressor with a CFM that matches the one you already own. This can be done by connecting the two compressors, which will effectively double the amount of air that the combined system can deliver.

This method is particularly useful for large industrial operations that require a large amount of compressed air. However, it’s important to ensure that compressors are properly synced and that the pressure and flow rate are balanced between them.

Additionally, it’s also important to consider the cost and space requirements of adding a second compressor. It’s important to consult a professional or do thorough research to ensure that compressors are compatible and can work together efficiently.

Adding a second air receiver tank

Another way to increase air compressor CFM is by adding a second air receiver air tank. An air receiver tank is a pressure vessel that stores compressed air and acts as a buffer between the compressor and the air tools. This is particularly useful when multiple air tools are being used simultaneously, as it allows for consistent air pressure and flow rate to be maintained.

A larger air receiver tank will effectively double the amount of air that can be stored and delivered in a given period, which will make higher CFM of the system, which is good for long-term air tool use.

Additionally, a larger tank will also provide a more stable air supply, which can be useful for certain tasks as well as get a new compressor pump and a motor. The compressor pump and the motor is like adding more horsepower to the compressor.

However, it’s important to consider the cost and space requirements of adding a second air tank. It’s also important to ensure that the air receiver tank air tool is compatible with the current compressor and that it can handle the pressure and flow rate of the air supply.

Lowering the air pressure

Another method how to increase CFM on air compressor is by lowering the pressure at which the air is delivered. This can be done by adjusting the pressure switches on your compressor, which controls the pressure at which the compressor turns on and off. Pressure switches will increase the amount of air that the compressor can deliver in a given period.

However, it’s important to note that lowering the pressure too much may cause the compressor to work harder and decrease its overall efficiency. It’s important to consult a professional.

Connecting two compressors with different CFMs

Another way to increase the air compressor CFM is by connecting two air compressors with different CFMs. This can be done by using a manifold and a series of valves to control the flow of air between the two compressors.

This method allows you to take advantage of the different air compressor CFM, and will effectively increase the overall CFM of the system, as well as let the compressor keep the tank pressure up.

It’s important to consult a professional or do thorough research to ensure that the compressors are compatible and can work together efficiently.

Increasing the capacity of your compressed air unit

If you’re looking to increase the air compressor CFM, you can also try increasing the capacity of your compressed air unit. This can be done by installing larger air filters, air dryers, and other components to increase the overall efficiency of the system.

Additionally, you can also consider upgrading to a larger compressor if your current one is too small for your needs.

It’s important to consult a professional or do thorough research to ensure that the new components are compatible and can work efficiently with the current compressed air and air tools.

What if you want to decrease the CFM?

Sometimes, you may want to decrease the CFM of your air compressor for a variety of reasons.

One reason may be to save energy costs, as a compressor with a lower CFM will use less power. Another reason may be that the compressor is producing too much air for the task at hand, leading to wasted resources and potential damage to air tools.

To decrease the compressed air system, you can adjust the pressure switch, which controls the maximum pressure that the compressor will produce. By decreasing the maximum pressure setting, you will also decrease the CFM of the compressor.

Decreasing pressure to increase CFM

Another approach to increasing the compressed air system is to decrease the pressure of the compressed air if the pressure is approaching the outlet pressure. This can be done by using a pressure regulator, which reduces the pressure of the compressed air to a desired level.

When the pressure is decreased, the compressor will work more efficiently and produce more air at a lower pressure, increasing CFM.

Instructions while increasing the CFM on air compressor

Increase the compressor’s RPM. Increase the revolutions per minute (RPM) of the compressor which is the speed at which the compressor’s motor runs. By increasing the RPM of the compressor, the motor will spin faster, which will cause the compressor to produce more air. This increase in air production will increase the CFM.

Increase the size of the compressor. Larger compressors have a higher compressor CFM rating than smaller ones because they have a larger displacement, which is the volume of air that the compressor can move per revolution.

Use a larger air filter. Air filters are used to remove dirt, dust, and other impurities from the air before it enters the compressor. A larger air filter will have a larger surface area, which will allow more air to enter the compressor. This increase in the air entering the compressor will increase CFM.

Use a larger air intake pipe. The air intake pipe is the pipe that brings in the air from the outside to the compressor. A larger air intake pipe will have a larger diameter, which will allow more air to enter the compressor.

Use a larger air discharge pipe. The air discharge pipe is the pipe that carries the compressed air from the compressor to the point of use. A larger air discharge pipe will have a larger diameter, which will allow more air to exit the compressor. This increase in air exiting the compressor will increase CFM.

Things to consider when adding a second tank to compressed air units

Size of the second tank. Make sure that the second tank is appropriately sized to meet the demands of your application.

Compatibility. Ensure that the second tank is compatible with your existing compressor.

Airflow. Consider the airflow capacity of the second tank and ensure that it can handle the flow rate of your compressor.

Pressure. Make sure that the second tank can handle the pressure of the compressed air.

Maintenance. Consider the maintenance and air tool requirements of the second tank and ensure that you have the resources to properly maintain it.

Things to consider when expanding the size of your compressed air unit

Space. Make sure you have enough space to accommodate a larger compressor unit. When considering a larger compressor unit, it’s important to make sure that you have enough space to accommodate it. The larger the compressor, the more space it will require.

Power. Ensure that your electrical service can handle the increased power demands of a larger compressor. A larger compressor will also have higher power demands, so it’s important to ensure that your electrical service can handle the increased power load.

Airflow. Consider the airflow capacity of the larger compressor and ensure that it can handle the flow rate of your application. It’s also important to consider the airflow capacity of the larger compressor and ensure that it can handle the flow rate of your application.

Pressure. Make sure that the larger compressor can handle the pressure of the compressed air. It’s also important to consider the airflow capacity of the larger compressor and ensure that it can handle the flow rate of your application.

Maintenance. Consider the maintenance requirements of a larger compressor and ensure that you have the air tools for it. Lastly, it’s important to consider the maintenance requirements of a larger compressor and ensure that you have the resources to properly maintain it.

Can you increase CFM by adding a tank?

Adding a tank to a compressed air system will not directly increase the CFM of the system. However, adding a larger tank can help to increase the volume of air stored, which can help to ensure that there is always a sufficient supply of air available, even if the compressor is not running at the time.

This can be beneficial in situations where a large amount of air is needed in a short period, such as during peak usage times. Additionally, a larger tank can help to smooth out pressure fluctuations and provide a more consistent supply of compressed air.

Is tank size important while using an air compressor?

Tank size is important when using an air compressor because it plays a role in the overall performance and efficiency of the system. A larger tank can help to increase the volume of air stored, which can help to ensure that there is always a sufficient supply of air available, even if the compressor is not running at the time.

Additionally, a larger tank can help to smooth out pressure fluctuations and provide a more consistent supply of compressed air. However, it is also important to make sure that the tank of your air tool is appropriately sized for the demands of your application and that you have the resources to properly maintain it.

How can you control the cut-in of two air compressors with different specs?

One way to control the cut-in of two air compressors with different specs is to use a control system that monitors the air pressure in the system and automatically starts and stops the compressors as needed.

This can help to ensure that the compressors are only running when they are needed, which can help to save energy and prolong the life of the compressors. Additionally, you can also use a pressure switch that is set to the appropriate pressure levels for each compressor, so that they will only turn on when the system pressure drops below that level.

FAQ

Conclusion

CFM, or cubic feet per minute, is an important measurement of the performance of an air compressor. There are several ways to increase or decrease the CFM of a compressor, including adjusting the pressure switch, installing a flow control valve, and using a larger compressor or air filter.

Additionally, adding a second tank or expanding the size of your compressed air unit can also be beneficial. Still, it’s important to consider factors such as compatibility, airflow, pressure, and maintenance. Wonder How To Fill Paintball Tank With Air Compressor, read