1. What is CFM to FPS Conversion?

CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) to FPS (Feet per Second) conversion calculates air velocity based on airflow rate and cross-sectional area. This is essential in HVAC, ventilation, and airflow system design.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( FPS \) — Feet per Second (air velocity)
• \( CFM \) — Cubic Feet per Minute (airflow rate)
• \( Area \) — Cross-sectional area in square feet

Explanation: The formula converts volumetric airflow rate (CFM) to linear air velocity (FPS) by dividing by the cross-sectional area through which the air flows.

3. Importance of Air Velocity Calculation

Details: Accurate air velocity calculation is crucial for proper ventilation system design, ensuring adequate air exchange, maintaining comfort levels, and optimizing energy efficiency in HVAC systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter CFM in ft³/min and Area in ft². Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical FPS range for ventilation systems?
A: Typical air velocities range from 500-2000 FPS for general ventilation, though specific requirements vary based on application and system design.

Q2: How does duct shape affect the calculation?
A: The calculation uses cross-sectional area, so for non-circular ducts, use the actual area. Circular ducts require diameter measurement to calculate area.

Q3: Can this calculator be used for liquid flow?
A: While the principle is similar, liquid flow typically uses different units (GPM instead of CFM) and may require different conversion factors.

Q4: Why is air velocity important in HVAC systems?
A: Proper air velocity ensures efficient heat transfer, minimizes noise, prevents condensation issues, and maintains comfortable air movement.

Q5: How accurate is this conversion?
A: The conversion is mathematically exact when measurements are precise. Accuracy depends on the precision of your CFM and area measurements.