Compressed Air Pipe Size Calculator

Pipe Diameter Formula:

\[ Diameter = \sqrt{\frac{Flow\ CFM \times Length\ ft \times Specific\ Gravity}{Pressure\ Drop}} \]

Flow (CFM):

CFM

Length (ft):

feet

Specific Gravity:

unitless

Pressure Drop (psi):

psi

Pipe Diameter:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Compressed Air Pipe Size Calculator?

The Compressed Air Pipe Size Calculator determines the appropriate pipe diameter for compressed air systems based on flow rate, pipe length, specific gravity, and allowable pressure drop. Proper pipe sizing is essential for efficient compressed air distribution.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pipe diameter formula:

\[ Diameter = \sqrt{\frac{Flow\ CFM \times Length\ ft \times Specific\ Gravity}{Pressure\ Drop}} \]

Where:

\( Flow \) — Air flow rate in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM)
\( Length \) — Pipe length in feet (ft)
\( Specific\ Gravity \) — Ratio of gas density to air density (unitless)
\( Pressure\ Drop \) — Allowable pressure drop in pounds per square inch (psi)

Explanation: This formula calculates the minimum pipe diameter required to maintain the specified pressure drop for the given flow conditions.

3. Importance of Proper Pipe Sizing

Details: Correct pipe sizing ensures adequate air flow, minimizes pressure drops, reduces energy consumption, and prevents system inefficiencies in compressed air applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter flow rate in CFM, pipe length in feet, specific gravity (typically 1.0 for air), and allowable pressure drop in psi. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is CFM in compressed air systems?
A: CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) measures the volumetric flow rate of compressed air through the system.

Q2: Why is specific gravity important?
A: Specific gravity accounts for differences in gas density compared to standard air, affecting flow characteristics and pressure drop calculations.

Q3: What is a typical pressure drop allowance?
A: Most systems aim for 1-3 psi pressure drop per 100 feet of pipe, but this varies based on application requirements.

Q4: Does pipe material affect the calculation?
A: While this formula provides diameter, actual selection should consider material roughness and pressure ratings for safety.

Q5: When should I oversize pipes?
A: Consider oversizing for future expansion, high-demand applications, or systems with multiple simultaneous users.