Classification of Centrifugal Industrial Fans

The industrial blowers and fans are used to provide a large flow of either gas or air. This process is achieved by the rotating blades, connected to a shaft. In most cases, turbines or motors are used to drive the shaft.

Broadly, industrial fans can be classified as either axial or centrifugal flow. The axial flow fans are commonly used in the ventilation systems. Normally, the fan blows air, which moves parallel to the axis of rotation.

The centrifugal fans are common in a number of industrial setups. Their blades are rotated by the centrifugal forces. In this scenario, air/gas moves around a given fixed point. This has been the main reason why these fans are used to control air pollution and as a high pressure cooling mechanism.

The classification of centrifugal industrial fans is based on their blades. Some of the most common examples include:

The forward curved blades

They are constructed with very small blades, which are curved forward in the direction of the shaft rotation. In most industrial setting, they are referred to as the squirrel cage wheel.

Most of these centrifugal fans are used in low pressure applications. A good example is the heating and ventilation systems.

The radial blade fans

The blades are perpendicular to the direction of the wheel rotation. To move a significant amount of air, the blades should be rotated at medium speeds. They’re designed for material handling and are mainly used in high pressure industrial applications. In addition to these, they feature a rugged and robust construction.

The backward inclined blade

These industrial fans have flat blades leaning backward from the direction of the wheel rotation. To move a given amount of air/gas, the blades should rotate at relatively high speed. This fan is more efficient than the ones mentioned above. They are mainly used in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.

The airfoil blades

This is one of the most efficient industrial fans. It is the improved version of the backward inclined blade design. It can be operate at relatively higher speed than the flat blade types.  The fans are mainly used in the clean air industrial systems. They can save a significant amount of energy.

The radial tip fans

Their blades are constructed in such a way that, they tend to lean backwards. However, the outside tip of the blade is designed to approach the radial position of the fan. These centrifugal fans are designed to handle dirt or material.

As the end user, it is advisable to be specific on a given industrial application where this equipment should be used before opting for any the designs.