HVAC & Airflow

Propeller Fan CFM Calculator

Free-air CFM of a propeller (axial) fan from disk area and velocity.

Enter your values

Enter the blade diameter in in.

Enter the average discharge 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
Free-air CFM
3,770 CFM
Swept area
3.14 sq ft
Note
Free-air estimate — CFM drops quickly against added static pressure

Quick answer

Propeller fan CFM equals the fan's swept disk area multiplied by the average discharge air velocity.

CFM = Area x V

At a glance

What it doesFree-air CFM of a propeller (axial) fan from disk area and velocity.
CategoryHVAC & Airflow
Inputs neededBlade diameter, Average discharge velocity
Main outputFree-air CFM
FormulaCFM = Area x V
CostFree — no sign-up, no download

How to use the Propeller Fan CFM Calculator

  1. 1Enter the propeller fan's blade tip diameter and its measured or rated discharge velocity.
  2. 2Read the estimated free-air CFM (no ductwork resistance).
  3. 3Remember propeller fans lose CFM fast once any static pressure is added — check the manufacturer's curve for ducted applications.

Inputs explained

Blade diameter(in)
Enter the blade diameter in in.
Average discharge velocity(FPM)
Enter the average discharge velocity in FPM.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Blade diameter24 in
  • Average discharge velocity1200 FPM

Results

  • Free-air CFM3,770 CFM
  • Swept area3.14 sq ft
  • NoteFree-air estimate — CFM drops quickly against added static pressure

Frequently asked questions

Can propeller fans handle ductwork?

Only very short, low-resistance duct runs — for real ductwork, use a vane-axial or centrifugal fan instead.

Where are propeller fans used?

Wall or roof exhaust with no ductwork, or condenser/cooling tower fans discharging to open air.

What do I need to enter into the Propeller Fan CFM Calculator?

Just 2 values: blade diameter, average discharge 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 Propeller Fan CFM Calculator work out the answer?

Propeller fan CFM equals the fan's swept disk area multiplied by the average discharge air velocity. It applies the formula CFM = Area x V and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.

Is the Propeller Fan 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.