Can Velocity Calculator
What is Can Velocity?
Can velocity is the speed at which air moves vertically through the space below the filters (the “can” or lower plenum of the baghouse above the hopper). This air must move slowly enough to allow dust to fall into the hopper without being re-entrained.
How to Use This Calculator
⦿ Enter the ACFM (Actual Cubic Feet per Minute): Input the total volume of air flowing through your dust collection system.
⦿ Enter the Baghouse Side Length (inches): Input the internal length of your baghouse housing.
⦿ Enter the Baghouse Side Width (inches): Input the internal width of your baghouse housing.
⦿ Calculate: Click the calculate button to generate your can velocity. You can then use the buttons below the calculator to email yourself a PDF summary of the results or request a free system sizing consultation from our engineering team.
Understanding the Formula
Can Velocity = ACFM ÷ ((Side L × Side W) ÷ 144)
Can velocity measures the vertical speed at which air moves through the space below the filter bags (the “can” or lower plenum of the baghouse, right above the hopper). This upward airflow must move slowly enough to allow dust to naturally fall into the hopper. If the can velocity is too high, it will re-entrain the dust back onto the filters, leading to rapid blinding and poor performance.
The formula simply calculates the cross-sectional area of your housing in square feet (by taking the square inches and dividing by 144) and then divides the total airflow (ACFM) by that area to give you the speed in feet per minute (fpm).
Importance of Can Velocity in Baghouse Design
A high can velocity can keep dust suspended and cause it to be re-captured by the filters, reducing collection efficiency and increasing wear. Maintaining proper can velocity is essential for clean operation and effective dust discharge.
Note: Can velocity is just one part of the picture. Hopper design, precleaners, and dust type also affect performance. Always review with a dust collection expert before finalizing your design.