5 Reasons to Choose an Axial Instead of a Centrifugal Industrial Fan

Whether used for ventilation, cooling, or as heat exhausts, industrial fans are commonly used across a wide range of industries. There are plenty of different types available, but the two most popular options are axial fans and centrifugal fans.

The basic design difference is simple enough. Axial fans rotate blades around an axis, drawing air in parallel to that axis and forcing it out in the same direction — that's why they are called 'axial'. In contrast, centrifugal fans extract air at right angles to the intake by using centrifugal force and deflection.

While each type can work well, they are suited to slightly different environments and applications. As such, it pays to compare features and choose the type that will best fit your needs. Here are just five reasons to consider an axial industrial fan over a centrifugal industrial fan.

1. Lower Price

There are plenty of factors that can impact the price of your industrial fan. However, as a general rule, you should find that an axial fan will cost less than an equivalent centrifugal fan. This is going to be particularly important if you need several fans since the cost difference can really add up.

2. High Volume Airflow

Axial fans have a higher operating speed than centrifugal fans, and they are able to move much larger volumes of air at a regular pace. This is why they are often used in cooling towers and other areas where a high volume of constant airflow is required. That high volume also means that relatively large spaces can be cooled by axial fans.

3. Variable Speed

While axial fans can offer a higher operating speed than centrifugal fans, they don't have to. In fact, it's much easier to alter the speed of an axial fan since they can continue to produce high airflow even when their blades are spinning relatively slowly. In contrast, the airflow from centrifugal fans will dramatically decrease when their speed is reduced.

4. More Efficient

Choosing the most efficient industrial fan possible can help lower your energy bills and reduce your environmental impact. Again, there are many factors beyond design that will make a difference, but axial fans will generally use less power than centrifugal fans, making them a good choice when efficiency is a key concern.

5. Smaller and Lighter

Finally, axial fans are generally light and small, whereas centrifugal fans tend to be bulky and heavy. This means that installing and moving axial fans is much easier. You can also fit them into tighter spaces and won't need to worry as much about the weight placed on any supporting structures.

Contact a supplier for more information on industrial fans.