Industrial fans play a vital role in the movement of air and gas in industrial facilities. Unlike industrial blowers, which move air in a more localized manner, fans control airflow over large regions. There are three main types of industrial fans:
- Mixed Flow Fan. Combines the airflow methods of several fan types, resulting in high-pressure movement.
- Axial Fan. Ideal for applications requiring low pressure and high flow rates. This type of fan creates airflow that moves parallel to its axis.
- Centrifugal Fan. Centrifugal fans intake air at their center and release it around their edges. They provide slightly lower flow than axial fans, but also have higher pressure.
Axial fans are ideal for applications such as condenser cooling and large-scale air movement, and centrifugal fans are commonly used in applications such as electronic cooling, process heating and cooling, and boiler combustion air. Regardless of the type of fan you choose, it is imperative to work with expert industrial fan manufacturers to ensure optimal results. Here are the most important factors to consider when choosing the right industrial fan manufacturer.
They Offer Replacement Parts and Field Service to Help Reduce Potential Downtime
Generic parts and OEM parts often differ greatly in their performance, even if they appear outwardly identical. Opting for replacement parts that are made specifically for the industrial fan in question ensures the parts will be compatible. These parts are also more durable and are typically manufactured at tighter tolerances than generic parts. Additionally, the industrial fan manufacturer will be able to provide a clear idea of how frequently the OEM parts will need to be replaced. This is very helpful in preventing unexpected downtime, as it makes it possible to plan upgrades well in advance.
The best manufacturers will also offer a variety of field services to provide ongoing assistance even after the industrial fan is installed. Staff can perform inspections, realign the fan’s shaft, and calibrate the fan’s balance and vibration. They are also able to provide torque verification and inlet operational clearances.
They Are Knowledgeable and Helpful in the Industrial Fan Selection Process
Each type of industrial fan has different properties that make it better suited for certain types of applications. Choosing the best fan for a given situation is incredibly important, and an experienced industrial fan manufacturer can facilitate the decision-making process. They listen to the customer, determine the appropriate airflow requirements for the desired application, and provide expert advice and guidance to help the customer choose the best option.
There are several factors that a manufacturer may take into consideration when they are assisting in choosing a fan. For example, they will likely ask about the ambient temperature of the facility, the total airflow that the fan will need to be able to handle, and the altitude the fan will operate at. Other factors for consideration include:
- Static pressure
- Safety conditions
- Air density
They Are Committed to Manufacturing High-Quality Industrial Fans
Even a highly knowledgeable industrial fan manufacturer will not be able to provide optimal service if they are not committed to quality. The best manufacturers continually utilize the most advanced technology and perform frequent performance testing. Their teams will be managed by experienced engineers, and they will be dedicated to building strong and long-lasting relationships with their customers.
Due to the harsh environments many industrial fans experience, manufacturers must also be sure to create fans that meet the certifications and standards for every intended application. These include:
- ATEX
- AMCA
- API
- OSHA
- MSHA
Markair Has Your Industrial Fan Needs Covered
At Markair, our industry specialists are dedicated to helping you find the industrial fan solution that perfectly fits your needs. We work alongside highly experienced fan manufacturers to ensure the highest quality products, and we can modify any fan to meet the exact specifications of your application. To learn more about our industrial fan solutions, contact us today.