Why measure at three locations?

Two segments separate upstream supply loss from the blast-machine and hose segment, so corrective action targets the part actually losing pressure.

Can nozzle pressure be inferred from receiver pressure?

No. Restrictions and airflow demand create substantial loss under load, so the receiver gauge can look healthy while the nozzle runs well below target.

What does the productivity index mean?

It applies the cited rule of thumb only to the shortfall from your entered target and is a planning indicator, not a guaranteed production result.

Does low loss prove enough compressor capacity?

No. Capacity must also be checked against total airflow demand and reserve, because a system can hold pressure at a low flow and still lack capacity.

Abrasive Blasting, Shot Peening & Surface Prep calculator

Loaded Abrasive Blast Air Pressure Loss Calculator

Find where loaded pressure is lost between compressor, blast-pot inlet and nozzle. Enter three synchronized loaded readings, the required nozzle pressure and the actual hose length.

What this calculator does

Localize loaded pressure loss between compressor, blast-pot inlet and nozzle while separating total loss from target shortfall.

Formula used

Compressor-to-pot loss (psi) = max(compressor pressure − pot inlet pressure, 0)
Pot-to-nozzle loss (psi) = max(pot inlet pressure − nozzle pressure, 0)
Shortfall (psi) = max(required nozzle pressure − nozzle pressure, 0)
Productivity index = max(100 − 1.5 × shortfall psi, 0)

Inputs explained

Compressor Receiver Pressure While Loaded: Receiver or supply-manifold pressure during steady blasting.
Blast-Pot Inlet Pressure While Loaded: Pressure immediately upstream of the blast machine during flow.
Nozzle Pressure While Loaded: Pressure measured at the nozzle while blasting.
Required Nozzle Pressure: Target pressure for the validated production condition.
Pot-To-Nozzle Hose Length: Developed blast-hose length represented by the readings.

How to use the result

Best suited to pressure-loss troubleshooting, hose layout comparison, compressor capacity verification.
Does not calculate pipe friction from system geometry. Does not replace hose, coupling, valve or compressor sizing. The productivity index is not a contractual production guarantee.

Common questions

Why measure at three locations? Two segments separate upstream supply loss from the blast-machine and hose segment, so corrective action targets the part actually losing pressure.
Can nozzle pressure be inferred from receiver pressure? No. Restrictions and airflow demand create substantial loss under load, so the receiver gauge can look healthy while the nozzle runs well below target.
What does the productivity index mean? It applies the cited rule of thumb only to the shortfall from your entered target and is a planning indicator, not a guaranteed production result.
Does low loss prove enough compressor capacity? No. Capacity must also be checked against total airflow demand and reserve, because a system can hold pressure at a low flow and still lack capacity.

Last reviewed 2026-10-01.