How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the air flow rate in CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute).
- Input the operating air pressure in PSI (Pounds per Square Inch).
- Provide the cost of electricity per kWh ($/kWh).
- Set the compressor motor efficiency (as a percentage).
- Click the "Calculate" button to see the estimated daily, monthly, and annual air consumption costs.
Understanding the Formula
The calculator uses the following formula to estimate air consumption costs:
Cost = (Flow × Pressure × 1.8 × 24 × 0.746 × (1/efficiency)) × Electricity Cost
Where:
- Flow - The volume of air consumed per minute
- Pressure - The air pressure at which the compressor operates
- 1.8 - Conversion factor from PSI to bar (1 PSI = 0.06894757 bar)
- 24 - Number of hours in a day
- 0.746 - Conversion factor from horsepower to kilowatts (1 hp = 0.746 kW)
- Efficiency - The percentage of electrical energy converted to compressed air energy
- Electricity Cost - The cost of electrical energy per kilowatt-hour
Practical Applications
This calculator helps you:
- Estimate the operating costs of compressed air systems
- Compare different compressor configurations
- Identify opportunities for energy savings
- Make informed decisions about equipment upgrades
Important Notes
This calculator provides an estimate based on theoretical calculations. Actual costs may vary due to factors such as:
- Compressor type and age
- System leaks
- Environmental conditions
- Operational patterns