For the best performance of your pneumatic tools, please keep the following in mind:
E.A.R.S. IS A SYSTEM – A closed loop system comprised of a specially fitted air compressor, dual air lines and a series of pneumatic tools specially designed to return the exhausted air to the patented manifold that is fitted to the compressor.
You must have the complete system to properly enjoy all the benefits of E.A.R.S.
Air tools require clean, dry air for optimum performance. Be sure to install the correct number and type of filters, water separators and driers for peak performance and tool life.
Air tools work on air FLOW, not pressure. All tools are rated in CFM, or Cubic Feet per Minute at a given pressure. In order for the tool to get the proper amount of air, you need to consider the smallest restriction between the air compressor and the tool.
Example: The common air coupling used in the US has a 3/16 ID, and is only capable of flowing 19 CFM at 90 PSI. High Flow couplings with ¼ ID are capable of flowing 38 CFM at 90 PSI. High performance impact wrenches and common DA type sanders and grinders can require 32 to 48 CFM for proper operation.
How do I determine my CFM Requirements?
The chart below includes some common air tools and their average CFM measurements. Reference this chart to determine what continuous CFM rating is required of your air compressor. Air tools are often rated as “Average CFM.” “Average CFM” is typically based on a 25% duty cycle (15 seconds out of a minute); average use being intermittent operation of the air tool. This sometimes creates a problem with tools that are used on a continuous basis.
If you plan on using an air tool on a continuous basis, it is a good idea to multiply the “Average CFM” x 4 to get a continuous CFM rating for the tool.
Air Tool Description
Intermittent use CFM @ 90 PSI
Angle Disc Grinder - 7"
5-8
Die grinder
4-6
Chisel/Hammer
3-11
Cut-Off Tool
4-10
Drill, Reversible or Straight-Line
3-6
DA Dual Sander
11-13
Impact Wrench—3/4
10-16
Screw Gun
3-6
Power File
5-6
Impact Wrench - 3/8"
3-5
Impact Wrench - 1/2"
5-7
Impact Wrench - 1"
13-17
Air Tool Description
Intermittent use CFM @ 90 PSI
Angle Disc Grinder - 7"
5-8
Die grinder
4-6
Chisel/Hammer
3-11
Cut-Off Tool
4-10
Drill, Reversible or Straight-Line
3-6
DA Dual Sander
11-13
Impact Wrench—3/4
10-16
Screw Gun
3-6
Power File
5-6
Impact Wrench - 3/8"
3-5
Impact Wrench - 1/2"
5-7
Impact Wrench - 1"
13-17
Air Tool Description
Intermittent use CFM @ 90 PSI
Angle Disc Grinder - 7"
5-8
Die grinder
4-6
Chisel/Hammer
5-11
Cut-Off Tool
4-10
Drill, Reversible or Straight-Line
3-6
DA Dual Sander
11-13
Impact Wrench—3/4
10-16
Screw Gun
3-6
Power File
5-6
Impact Wrench - 3/8"
3-5
Impact Wrench - 1/2"
5-7
Impact Wrench - 1"
13-17
(C) 2010 Michigan Pneumatic Tool, Inc and EARS North America