LPM to CFM Calculator
Convert between Liters per Minute (LPM) and Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) for compressed air systems, pneumatic tools, and air purifier specifications.
Common in European compressed air specs
US/Imperial flow rate
Compressed Air SCFM Calculator
*SCFM calculated at standard conditions: 14.7 PSI, 68°F (20°C)
Common Tool & Equipment Flow Rates
| Application | LPM | CFM | Typical PSI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Blow Gun | 85-170 | 3-6 | 90 |
| Paint Spray Gun | 200-400 | 7-14 | 40-60 |
| Impact Wrench (1/2") | 113-170 | 4-6 | 90 |
| Die Grinder | 113-226 | 4-8 | 90 |
| Sandblaster | 340-850 | 12-30 | 80-100 |
| Small Air Purifier | 2800-5600 | 100-200 | N/A |
| Large Air Purifier | 8500-14000 | 300-500 | N/A |
LPM/CFM in Different Applications
Compressed Air Systems
- •Flow rate at working pressure (90-150 PSI)
- •SCFM standardized at 14.7 PSI
- •Critical for tool performance
- •Compressor sizing essential
Air Purifiers
- •Flow rate at atmospheric pressure
- •CADR ratings in CFM standard
- •Room size coverage priority
- •LPM rarely used in specs
Important: When comparing air purifier specifications internationally, CFM is the standard unit in North America, while m³/h (CMH) is used in Europe. LPM is rarely used for air purifiers but common in compressed air applications.
Conversion Formulas
LPM to CFM
CFM = LPM × 0.0353147Divide liters per minute by 28.3168
CFM to LPM
LPM = CFM × 28.3168Multiply cubic feet per minute by 28.3168
SCFM Calculation
SCFM = CFM × (Actual Pressure + 14.7) / 14.7Converts actual CFM at working pressure to Standard CFM at atmospheric pressure (14.7 PSI)
Related Calculators
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use LPM vs CFM?
Use LPM when working with European or metric compressed air specifications. Use CFM for US/North American pneumatic tools, HVAC systems, and air purifiers. Most air purifier manufacturers worldwide use CFM for CADR ratings regardless of region.
What is SCFM and why does it matter?
SCFM (Standard Cubic Feet per Minute) is the flow rate adjusted to standard conditions (14.7 PSI, 68°F). It's crucial for compressed air systems because actual CFM varies with pressure. Air tools are rated in SCFM for consistent comparison.
Can I use this calculator for air purifiers?
While this calculator works for any LPM to CFM conversion, air purifiers rarely use LPM in specifications. For air purifiers, focus on CFM (North America) or m³/h (Europe/Asia) ratings. Use our CFM to CMH calculator for international air purifier comparisons.
How do I size a compressor for my tools?
Add up the SCFM requirements of all tools you'll run simultaneously, then add 30% safety margin. For example, if your tools need 10 SCFM total, choose a compressor rated for at least 13 SCFM. Always check both SCFM and PSI ratings match your tool requirements.