Paint Tent CFM Calculator
Exhaust airflow for a portable spray paint tent.
Enter your values
Enter the tent width in ft.
Enter the tent height in ft.
Enter the target face 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.
- Required exhaust airflow
- 8,000 CFM
- Cross-sectional area
- 80 sq ft
- Filter face area needed at 250 FPM max
- 32 sq ft
Quick answer
Portable spray paint tents typically need 100 FPM of cross-draft face velocity to safely capture overspray.
CFM = cross-section area x face velocity
At a glance
| What it does | Exhaust airflow for a portable spray paint tent. |
|---|---|
| Category | HVAC & Airflow |
| Inputs needed | Tent width, Tent height, Target face velocity |
| Main output | Required exhaust airflow |
| Formula | CFM = cross-section area x face velocity |
| Cost | Free — no sign-up, no download |
How to use the Paint Tent CFM Calculator
- 1Measure the tent's cross-sectional opening (width x height).
- 2Multiply by a 100 FPM target capture velocity.
- 3Select an exhaust filter bank sized so its face velocity stays below its rated maximum.
Inputs explained
- Tent width(ft)
- Enter the tent width in ft.
- Tent height(ft)
- Enter the tent height in ft.
- Target face velocity(FPM)
- Enter the target face velocity in FPM.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Tent width10 ft
- Tent height8 ft
- Target face velocity100 FPM
Results
- Required exhaust airflow8,000 CFM
- Cross-sectional area80 sq ft
- Filter face area needed at 250 FPM max32 sq ft
Frequently asked questions
Is 100 FPM a hard code minimum?
It's a common industry rule of thumb for open-face spray booths and tents; check local fire code for exact figures.
Explosion-proof fans required?
Yes for solvent-based coatings — use fans and lighting rated for the hazardous location.
What do I need to enter into the Paint Tent CFM Calculator?
Just 3 values: tent width, tent height, target face 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 Paint Tent CFM Calculator work out the answer?
Portable spray paint tents typically need 100 FPM of cross-draft face velocity to safely capture overspray. It applies the formula CFM = cross-section area x face velocity and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.
Is the Paint Tent CFM 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.