Steps to Selecting the Right Industrial Fan

Many factors are involved in selecting the right industrial fan for your process. Your decision depends on much more than price alone. Does your application require high or low airflow? What will the pressure level be? Are there an environmental challenges that will need to be addressed? Keep in mind that an industrial fan that is selected to meet your specific application needs will be the most cost-effective option for your bottom line.

When it comes to fan specification, the proper choice is influenced by the type of air movement needed, whether for cooling, exhausting, aerating, ventilating or drying. As all of the factors are assessed, maximum efficiency and reliability of both the fan and the equipment involved can be achieved.

Based on our experience as an experienced industrial fan specialist, we have identified 10 basic fan selection steps to guide you in choosing the best fan for your application needs:

1.Type of Fan

All fans do not operate in the same way. Axial fans draw air in using a propeller, and discharge air in the same direction. Centrifugal fans have a wheel that draws air into the housing and discharges it out at 90°. Your first step should be to determine the type of air movement and fan type you need.

2.Ducting

Earlier in the design process, ducting should be considered for performance and efficiency. This will influence the final design in terms of overall cost, the compactness of the fan, and the operational costs.

3.Total Airflow

Airflow is rated in cubic feet of air per minute (CFM). When conveying material, make sure there is adequate CFM for the duct pipe or hose size.

4.Static Pressure

The resistance to the airflow, or static pressure, is caused by air moving through the pipe, hose, duct, filter, and other factors. Static pressure is rated in inches of water gauge (SPWG).

5.Density

Density changes resulting from temperature and/or barometric pressure variations should be corrected to standard conditions.

6.Air Temperature

The temperature of the air going through the fan or blower will affect the performance of the fan or blower.

7.Altitude

The altitude at which the fan or blower will be operating also impacts the performance of the fan or blower.

8.Material Handling

If material will be conveyed through the fan or blower, the material characteristics should be considered.

9.Ambient Temperature

The temperature of the air outside the fan or blower, or ambient temperature, can affect the operation of fan or blower.

10.Safety Conditions

Special accommodations may be required if any material going through the blower is flammable or combustible.