Unfortunately neither Nm3 (normal cubic meter) or Sm3 (standard cubic meter) are complete definitions in
themselves. It is essential to know the standard reference conditions of temperature and pressure to define
the gas volume since there are various debates about what normal and standard should be.
Most commonly used reference conditions are:
Normal cubic meter (Nm3) - Temperature: 0 °C, Pressure: 1.01325 barA
Standard cubic meter (Sm3) - Temperature: 15 °C, Pressure: 1.01325 barA
barA: absolute pressure
How do I calculate Nm3 and Sm3 and what is the conversion rate?
The volume of gases changes with temperature and pressure, therefore these parameters are also part of the
conversion equation.
The conversion from Sm3 to Nm3:
V1/V2 = (P2xT1) / (P1xT2)
V1/V2 = (288.16x1.013) / (273.16x1.013) = 1.05491287
Temperature is entered in K; 273.16 is absolute zero
Interpretation: 1Nm3 is 5,49% larger than Sm3, 1Nm3>1Sm3
Some of our competitors use 15°C and 981mBar as reference conditions for standard cubic meter. The
calculation is following:
V1/V2 = (288.16x1.013) / (273.16x0.981) = 1.08932389
Interpretation: 1Nm3 is 8,9% larger than Sm3. It also means the stated capacity of the generator stated in
Nm3/h is 8.9% larger than same capacity defined in Sm3/h.
Assumption: It is essential to consider these facts when projecting the gas generating system or when
actually making decision to purchase certain model because you might be actually buying less than you
actually think you are…
Source - cosaxentaur