CFM to m³/s Calculator: Convert Cubic Feet per Minute to Cubic Meters per Second
Use this calculator to convert airflow from Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) to Cubic Meters per Second (m³/s), ideal for air compressor systems, ventilation, and international engineering standards.
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Why Convert CFM to m³/s?
In the global world of engineering, airflow measurements are essential for proper equipment sizing, system design, and international standard compliance. CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) is widely used in the U.S. and Canada, whereas m³/s (Cubic Meters per Second) is part of the metric SI system, used throughout Europe, Asia, and internationally. Converting CFM to m³/s helps bridge the gap between imperial and metric specifications.
Conversion Formula
The conversion formula is:
m³/s = CFM × 0.00047194745
This is based on the following calculation:
- 1 cubic foot = 0.0283168466 cubic meters
- 1 minute = 60 seconds
- So, m³/s = (CFM × 0.0283168466) / 60 ≈ CFM × 0.00047194745
Example Conversions
- 100 CFM = 0.0472 m³/s
- 250 CFM = 0.1180 m³/s
- 500 CFM = 0.2360 m³/s
- 1000 CFM = 0.4719 m³/s
Applications of CFM to m³/s Conversion
This conversion is relevant in many fields:
- Industrial Ventilation: Ducts, fans, and filters are sized based on m³/s in international projects.
- Air Compressor Ratings: Comparing U.S. compressors (CFM) to EU specs (m³/s).
- HVAC System Design: Air handling units and heat exchangers often require both unit types.
- CFD Simulations: Computational fluid dynamics often uses SI units for airflow.
CFM vs m³/s - Unit Comparison
| Attribute | CFM | m³/s |
|---|---|---|
| System | Imperial | Metric (SI) |
| Volume | Cubic Feet | Cubic Meters |
| Time | Per Minute | Per Second |
| Used In | USA, Canada | Europe, Asia, global |
| Conversion Factor | 1 | × 0.00047195 |
Common Errors to Avoid
- Mixing m³/min or m³/h with m³/s — time units matter significantly.
- Assuming raw CFM values are corrected — they are usually not (SCFM is corrected).
- Omitting unit conversion in multinational equipment integration.
Best Practices
- Label both units on international equipment and documentation.
- Be consistent in using either metric or imperial units within the same project.
- Ensure ventilation, filtration, and exhaust rates align post-conversion.
- Use rounding only after engineering review — never during intermediate calculations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this the same as converting SCFM to m³/s?
No. This calculator assumes volumetric CFM. SCFM involves corrections for temperature and pressure, requiring a more advanced formula.
Q: Can I convert m³/s to CFM with this?
This page is for CFM to m³/s. For reverse conversion, use m³/s ÷ 0.00047194745 or create a dedicated reverse tool.
Q: Where is m³/s most commonly used?
m³/s is standard in scientific research, fluid dynamics, process engineering, and global HVAC specification.
Q: Is this conversion constant always accurate?
Yes, the factor is based on physical constants and assumes standard atmospheric pressure and temperature.
Conclusion
Converting CFM to m³/s allows seamless coordination between imperial and metric systems, especially in multinational projects involving compressors, fans, ducts, and environmental control systems. This calculator ensures engineering accuracy, prevents mismatch errors, and saves time during project planning and design. Use it whenever airflow needs to be translated from U.S. specifications to international formats.