Centrifugal fans

Centrifugal fans from ebm-papst are divided into fans with forward and backward curved blades.

Centrifugal fans with forward-curved blades can also be supplied with a scroll housing and are very quiet. They are particularly suitable for large air volumes in confined spaces.

Centrifugal fans with backward curved blades are so-called freewheels and do not require a scroll housing. This series is used for applications in the medium pressure range. The backward curved centrifugal fans are controlled via MODBUS and 0 to 10 V as standard.

All centrifugal fans are available as AC and GreenTech technology.

Power input
1 -12.000 W
Areas of application
up to 2,800 Pa
Air volume
1 - 30.000 m³/h
Voltage
85-480 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 12, 24, 48 and 110 VDC

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What is a centrifugal fan?

Centrifugal fans are an important component in the world of ventilation and air conditioning technology. They are specially designed to move air at an angle to the axis of rotation of the fan (radial). This mode of operation distinguishes them fundamentally from axial fans, in which the air flows parallel to the axis of rotation.

How does a centrifugal fan work?

Centrifugal fans work on the basis of centrifugal force, which is generated when air is moved radially away from the axis of rotation of a rotating impeller. Centrifugal fans are known for their ability to transport air over long distances while building up high pressure.

Principle of air movement

The core process of a centrifugal fan begins with the axial intake of air into the centre of the impeller. The rotating blades of the impeller accelerate the air radially outwards along the blades. This acceleration increases the speed of the air, which results in a higher air pressure. The converted kinetic energy enables the fan to move air efficiently against resistances such as those found in filters, heat exchangers and long ventilation ducts.

How are centrifugal fans constructed?

A centrifugal fan typically consists of:

the impeller (also called impeller), the housing that surrounds the impeller, and the drive unit consisting of drive shaft and motor.

The impeller

The centrepiece of every centrifugal fan is the impeller. It consists of several blades that are arranged radially (from the centre outwards). The shape of the blades can vary depending on the application in order to achieve optimum performance characteristics. During operation, the impeller generates a centrifugal effect due to the rotary motion, which pushes the air or gas outwards from the centre, creating a pressure difference that is responsible for the movement of the air.

The enclosure

The housing of a centrifugal fan encloses the impeller and serves several purposes: it guides the air accelerated by the impeller in the desired direction, helps to convert the velocity energy into pressure and protects the impeller and other internal components. The enclosure is often designed in a spiral or volute shape to ensure efficient air flow and maximise dynamic pressure.

The drive shaft

The drive shaft connects the motor to the impeller and is responsible for transmitting the rotational movement from the motor to the impeller. The dimensioning and material selection of the shaft are decisive for the durability and performance of the fan, especially at high speeds or in demanding operating environments.

The motor

The motor is the drive source of the centrifugal fan and can vary depending on the requirements and area of application. Electric motors are the most commonly used drive units, and the choice of motor is crucial in terms of power, speed and energy efficiency. Pneumatic or hydraulic drives can also be used for special applications.

Other components

In addition to the main components, centrifugal fans can have additional components depending on the configuration and area of application, such as sound insulation, vibration dampers, air filters and control units for adjusting the air flow.

How are centrifugal fans installed?

The installation of centrifugal fans is a critical step in ensuring their efficient and trouble-free operation in ventilation, heating and cooling systems. This process requires careful planning and attention to technical specifications to ensure optimum performance and longevity of the fan.

Preparation and planning

Comprehensive planning is required before a centrifugal fan is installed. This includes determining the right location based on the requirements of the ventilation system and the spatial conditions. Important factors are:

Air flow direction: The correct alignment of the fan according to the desired air flow is crucial. Accessibility: The fan should be easily accessible for maintenance work. Stability of the surface: A solid and low-vibration mounting surface is necessary to minimise operating noise and mechanical loads.

Mounting the centrifugal fan

The planning phase is followed by the actual installation, which comprises the following steps:

Fastening the housing: The housing of the centrifugal fan is mounted in the prepared position. Sufficient support must be ensured to reduce vibrations. Installation of the motor and impeller: The motor and impeller are installed in the housing and must be precisely aligned to ensure smooth operation. Connection to the ventilation system: The fan is connected to the ventilation ducts. Make sure that the connections are tight to avoid power losses.

Electrical connection

The electrical connection of the centrifugal fan is another essential step that must be carried out professionally:

Wiring: The electrical wiring must be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and applicable safety regulations. Protective circuits: The installation of overload protection circuits can extend the service life of the fan and provides additional safety. Commissioning: Before final commissioning, all components and connections should be checked to ensure that the fan has been installed correctly and is in working order.

Final checks and commissioning

Once the centrifugal fan has been installed and connected, final checks are necessary:

Function test: A test run should be carried out to confirm proper function. Noise and vibration test: It should be checked whether the fan operates within the acceptable noise and vibration limits. Air flow measurement: Checking the air flow can provide information on whether the fan is performing as expected.

The correct installation of a centrifugal fan is crucial for its efficiency and longevity. By following these steps, installers can ensure that the fan functions optimally and fulfils the requirements of the ventilation system.

What are the advantages of centrifugal fans?

Centrifugal fans offer a number of advantages that make them a preferred choice for many industrial and commercial applications. Their special design and mode of operation provide specific performance features that make them suitable for a wide range of applications.

High pressure build-up

One of the most notable advantages of centrifugal fans is their ability to build up high pressure. Thanks to their design and mode of operation, they can move air efficiently against high resistance. This is particularly useful in systems that have to pass air through long ducts, filters or heat exchangers.

Efficiency with variable air volumes

Centrifugal fans are able to work efficiently even with variable air volume flows. Their performance remains stable even under changing operating conditions, making them ideal for applications with fluctuating ventilation requirements.

Compact design

Despite their powerful capabilities, centrifugal fans often have a compact design. This feature enables flexible installation in systems where space is limited. Their compact size does not compromise their performance, which makes them attractive for a wide range of applications.

Versatility

The versatility of centrifugal fans is demonstrated by their wide range of applications. They can be used in air conditioning and ventilation systems, industrial process plants, dust extraction systems and many other areas. Their design allows them to be customised for specific requirements in terms of air volume and pressure.

Durability and low maintenance

Centrifugal fans are known for their robustness and durability. Their design ensures that they function reliably under demanding operating conditions. They are also designed to require little maintenance, which reduces operating costs over their service life.

Controllability

The performance of centrifugal fans can be customised for specific applications. The air volume and pressure can be precisely regulated with the integrated electronics of the EC centrifugal fans. Conventional AC centrifugal fans require a frequency converter for this. This flexibility in the control system improves the efficiency of the overall system.

What centrifugal fans are available from ebm-papst?

Centrifugal fans with forward curved blades

What centrifugal fans are available from ebm-papst?

The operating point of these Papst centrifugal fans is at air flow rates of between 70 m³/h and 8,000 m³/h and back pressures of 30 Pa to 700 Pa.

RadiCal

RadiCal is an innovative, compact ventilation solution characterised by low-noise operation and high energy efficiency, ideal for use in domestic ventilation.

The operating point of the RadiCals is at air flow rates between 100 m³/h and 14,000 m³/h and back pressures of 100 Pa to 1,400 Pa.

RadiFit

RadiFit from ebm-papst is a user-friendly, easy-to-install solution designed specifically for quick replacement and retrofitting in existing systems to improve performance and efficiency.

The operating point of the RadiFits is at air flow rates between 2,000 m³/h and 12,000 m³/h and back pressures of 1,000 Pa to 1,600 Pa.

RadiPac

RadiPac, the efficient range of centrifugal fans from ebm-papst, offers outstanding performance for cooling systems and industrial applications with an optimised design for maximum air performance with minimum energy consumption.

The operating point of the RadiPacs is at air flow rates between 100 m³/h and 100,000 m³/h and back pressures of 0 Pa to 3,000 Pa.

What is the difference between radial fan, centrifugal fan and centrifugal blower?

The differences between centrifugal fans, centrifugal blowers and centrifugal blowers lie mainly in their size, performance and specific areas of application. Centrifugal fans are designed for smaller, less demanding applications, centrifugal blowers cover a wide range of medium-duty applications, and centrifugal blowers are designed for the heaviest and most demanding applications. The selection of a suitable device depends on the specific requirements of the respective application.

Centrifugal fans

The term ‘radial fan’ is generally used for smaller devices that move air in a radial direction. Centrifugal fans are often used in electronic devices, computers or smaller ventilation systems where it is important to dissipate heat efficiently or transport air over short distances. They are designed for applications where high pressure build-up is less important than adequate air circulation.

Centrifugal fan

‘Centrifugal fan’ is a more general term that covers a wider range of devices that move air radially outwards from the centre. Centrifugal fans are more powerful than centrifugal blowers and can be used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications, including ventilation and air conditioning systems, industrial process equipment and dust collection systems. They are capable of generating higher air volumes and pressures, which makes them suitable for more demanding applications.

Centrifugal blower

The term ‘centrifugal blower’ is often used for even larger and more powerful devices. Centrifugal blowers are typically designed for applications that require a high degree of air movement and pressure build-up, such as in large industrial plants and systems. They are characterised by their ability to move large volumes of air against significant resistance and are used in areas such as heavy industry, in large ventilation systems and in processes that require intensive ventilation or extraction. The motor, impeller and housing together make up the centrifugal blower.