What is the difference between CFM and SCFM? - ProProfs Discuss
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What is the difference between CFM and SCFM?

Asked by Lynn , Last updated: Feb 22, 2024

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4 Answers

C. Bernthal

C. Bernthal

Its kind of my job to give answers

C. Bernthal
C. Bernthal, Teacher, MA, P.hD, Seattle

Answered Feb 19, 2021

SCFM and CFM are units used to measure the flow of air. They are types of air compressors use in workstations such as construction sites, workshops, garages, and so on. SCFM is an abbreviation for Standard Cubic Feet per Minute, while CFM is Cubic Feet.

SCFM gives details of the gas volume flow rate if placed in a controlled environment; it also determines the weight of compressed air at 14.696 pounds per square inch, 60 degrees Fahrenheit and 0 % relative humidity. CFM is the air volume delivered by a compressor to an air tool which also acts as a unit of measurement for compressors' ability. To use the SCFM or CFM will depend on the measurement that is to be taken.

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N. Jarah

N. Jarah

N. Jarah
N. Jarah

Answered Feb 02, 2021

These are the two most basic units for measuring the flow of air. SCFM is known as Standard Cubic Feet per Minute, while CFM is known as Cubic Feet. SCFM demonstrates the gas’s volume flow rate when put in a controlled environment. SCFM gives a way to measure the mass flow rate mass of a thing or material that travels through a certain overlay in a specific unit of time.

On the contrary, CFM is the volume of air that a compressor delivers to an air tool, and it is a unit of measurement of the compressor’s ability. CFM may refer to either the flow rate of a gas or liquid, while SCFM describes only the gas flow rate. CFM must be determined while SCFM has a standard measured volume.

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S. Sergius

S. Sergius

S. Sergius
S. Sergius

Answered Dec 02, 2020

Air compressors are important to those that work in locations like garages, construction sites, and workshops. An air compressor helps power multiple pneumatic tools at once. CFM and SCFM are two features of an air compressor. CFM stands for cubic feet per minute. It is the amount of air volume that the compressor can have at once.

Most compressors require a CFM that is 5. SCFM stands for standard cubic feet per minute. This is used to measure the temperature, pressure, and humidity of the compressor. It is important for a user to know the rates their tools require so that they can choose the correct air compressor.

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C. Marcus

C. Marcus

C. Marcus
C. Marcus, Content Developer, Washington

Answered Jul 07, 2020

If you are confused with what these two items are, you should know that CFM and SCFM are known to be air compressors. SCFM is normally measured under controlled environments. The SCFM will also measure pressure, relative humidity, and temperature.

The things that will be measured by the CFM are different. This would measure the volume rate of the flow system. This can help gain more details about temperature and pressure. If you would check the rating of the CFM and the SCFM, you will notice that the CFM will always have a lower rating as compared to the SCFM.

To choose the right air compressor, make sure that you will know what you would need to use it for. This will make a lot of difference to your decision.

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