Selecting the proper fan type is one of the most important decisions facility managers can make when designing or upgrading an air movement system. Industrial fans play a vital role in controlling air quality, cooling equipment, removing dust, and maintaining safe working conditions. The two primary categories—axial fans and centrifugal fans—each serve distinct functions depending on your airflow, pressure, and space requirements.
Axial Fans: High Flow, Low Pressure
Axial fans move air parallel to the shaft around which the blades rotate. These fans are ideal for applications requiring high airflow at low static pressure. They are often used in general ventilation, cooling towers, and wall-mounted exhaust systems. Brands like Hartzell Fan and Cincinnati Fan offer highly efficient axial fan designs that are well-suited for factories, warehouses, and other open environments.
Centrifugal Fans: High Pressure, Directional Flow
Centrifugal fans draw air into the center of the fan and push it out at a 90-degree angle. This allows them to produce much higher static pressure, making them the better choice for ducted systems, dust collection, and material handling applications. With options from Industrial Air Products and Daniels Fans, these fans are built to handle abrasive materials, high temperatures, and corrosive conditions.
Application Considerations
To choose the right fan, facility managers must consider:
- Required airflow (CFM)
- Static pressure and resistance in the system
- Environmental conditions (temperature, moisture, dust)
- Space constraints and installation needs
J.E. Phillips Company is Your Trusted Source for Industrial Fan Solutions
Our decades of experience and trusted product line that includes top manufacturers, assure we’re ready to help you find the ideal air movement system for your specific industrial application. Contact us today to speak with an air movement expert.