HVAC & Airflow

Cyclone Separator Sizing Calculator

Cyclone inlet velocity and body diameter.

Enter your values

Enter the airflow in CFM.

Enter the inlet velocity in FPM.

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.

Results
Inlet area
32.9 sq in
Inlet size (2:1)
8.1 x 4.1 in
Body diameter
16.2 in
Cone length
32.5 in
Outlet diameter
8.1 in

Quick answer

Cyclone performance depends on inlet velocity, typically 3,000-4,000 FPM, which sets the inlet and body dimensions.

inlet area = CFM / inlet velocity

At a glance

What it doesCyclone inlet velocity and body diameter.
CategoryHVAC & Airflow
Inputs neededAirflow, Inlet velocity
Main outputInlet area
Formulainlet area = CFM / inlet velocity
CostFree — no sign-up, no download

How to use the Cyclone Separator Sizing Calculator

  1. 1Enter the airflow the cyclone must handle.
  2. 2Use 3,000-4,000 FPM inlet velocity — faster separates finer dust but costs pressure.
  3. 3Follow the proportional dimensions for body, cone and outlet.

Inputs explained

Airflow(CFM)
Enter the airflow in CFM.
Inlet velocity(FPM)
Enter the inlet velocity in FPM.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Airflow800 CFM
  • Inlet velocity3500 FPM

Results

  • Inlet area32.9 sq in
  • Inlet size (2:1)8.1 x 4.1 in
  • Body diameter16.2 in
  • Cone length32.5 in
  • Outlet diameter8.1 in

Frequently asked questions

Why use a cyclone?

It drops 95%+ of dust before the filter, so the filter stays clean and airflow holds up.

Pressure penalty?

Expect 2-4 in wc, so size the fan accordingly.

What do I need to enter into the Cyclone Separator Sizing Calculator?

Just 2 values: airflow, inlet velocity. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.

How does the Cyclone Separator Sizing Calculator work out the answer?

Cyclone performance depends on inlet velocity, typically 3,000-4,000 FPM, which sets the inlet and body dimensions. It applies the formula inlet area = CFM / inlet velocity and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.

Is the Cyclone Separator Sizing Calculator free, and do I need an account?

It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.