Airflow Converter: m³/hr to CFM
Enter airflow in cubic meters per hour and convert instantly to cubic feet per minute.
If you work with HVAC systems, ventilation fans, dust extraction, or compressed air, you’ll often need to convert between metric and imperial airflow units. This tool helps you convert m³/hr to CFM quickly and accurately.
What do m³/hr and CFM mean?
m³/hr (cubic meters per hour)
This is a metric unit that tells you how many cubic meters of air move in one hour.
CFM (cubic feet per minute)
This is an imperial unit commonly used in the U.S. and Canada, showing how many cubic feet of air move in one minute.
Both represent airflow volume over time. The difference is just unit system and time scale.
m³/hr to CFM conversion formula
The conversion is based on two facts:
- 1 cubic meter = 35.3146667 cubic feet
- 1 hour = 60 minutes
So:
CFM = m³/hr × (35.3146667 ÷ 60) = m³/hr × 0.58857777
Common conversion values
| m³/hr | CFM (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 100 | 58.86 |
| 250 | 147.14 |
| 500 | 294.29 |
| 1,000 | 588.58 |
| 2,000 | 1,177.16 |
| 5,000 | 2,942.89 |
| 10,000 | 5,885.78 |
Where this conversion is used
- HVAC design: Duct sizing, room air change rates, and fan selection.
- Industrial ventilation: Dust control and fume extraction systems.
- Cleanrooms/labs: Precise airflow and filtration calculations.
- Air compressors: Matching equipment output and demand.
Tips for accurate airflow calculations
- Use consistent units across your entire calculation sheet.
- Keep extra decimal places during design; round only for final reporting.
- Include system losses (filters, bends, duct friction) when selecting fans.
- If possible, verify calculated airflow with field measurements.
FAQ
How many CFM is 1 m³/hr?
1 m³/hr equals 0.58857777 CFM (approximately 0.589 CFM).
How do I convert CFM back to m³/hr?
Use the reverse relationship: m³/hr = CFM × 1.6990108.
Can I use rounded values like 0.589?
Yes, for quick estimates. For engineering documentation, use more precision.
Why does my measured airflow differ from calculated airflow?
Real systems are affected by pressure drops, leaks, fan curves, and instrument tolerance, so measured values can differ from theoretical conversions.