Air Tool Consumption Guide

It is always best to check the specifications with your tool manufacturer, but if this information is not available, our air tool consumption guide will provide a rough guideline.
 
A common question we get is, “How much CFM do I need for my air tools?” Whether it’s an impact gun, grinder or breaker, there are various ranges of air consumption each of these tools use. We have put together an Air Tool Consumption Guide that includes common air tools in various sizes.
 
Please note this is only a guide. The tool manufacturer will have exact specifications for each model.
Air tool rests on metal excavator track

Air Consumption GuidePreview

Types of Pneumatic Tools CFM @ Load Suggested CFM VMAC Compressor Options

1/2" Impact Wrench

9 – 42

30-40 CFM

G30, D60, H40, DTM70, VR40

1/4" Ratchet

10 – 20

30-40 CFM

G30, D60, H40, DTM70, VR40

1/2" Drill

25 – 35

30-40 CFM

G30, D60, H40, DTM70, VR40

Vertical Grinder

50 – 93

60-70 CFM

D60, H60, DTM70, VR70

Air Hammer

7 – 30

30-40 CFM

G30, D60, H40, DTM70, VR40

60 lb Pavement Breaker

64 – 70

60-70 CFM

D60, H60, DTM70, VR70

90 lb Pavement Breaker

62 – 85

100 CFM

VR150

Check out our full Air Tool Consumption Guide to view our legend and the complete list of common air tools!