What Is a Centrifugal Fan, Anyway?

If you’re unfamiliar with the term, a centrifugal fan (also known as a blower) moves air by spinning it through a circular impeller. The air enters the center of the fan and is flung outward by the spinning blades, exiting at a 90-degree angle. This change in direction might not seem like a big deal, but it allows the fan to build up a lot of pressure, much more than a typical axial fan that just moves air straight through.

That extra pressure is precisely what a dust collection system needs. It has to pull air through long stretches of ductwork, across bends and filters, and out through vents or stacks. A centrifugal fan provides the power to make that happen.

Why the Fan Matters in a Dust Collection System

In a dust collection setup, the fan does the heavy lifting. It creates the suction that pulls dusty air away from workstations and through the system’s filters. Air wouldn’t move efficiently through the ducts without a strong enough fan. Dust would settle in the pipes, filters would clog more quickly, and the system wouldn’t catch fine particles like it should.

When the airflow drops, the system becomes less effective and can become dangerous. Dust lingering in the air can lead to respiratory issues and, depending on the material, even increase the risk of fire or explosions. A well-sized centrifugal fan ensures air keeps moving, dust gets captured, and workers stay safe.

Not All Fans Are the Same

Centrifugal fans come in different shapes and sizes, and choosing the right one depends significantly on the dust you’re dealing with and how your system is set up.

Some fans, like radial blade designs, are built for harsh conditions. They’re great for moving heavy, abrasive dust like wood chips or metal shavings. Others, like backward-inclined fans, are quieter and more efficient, making them a better fit for lighter applications where airflow needs to be high, but the material isn’t as harsh. Forward-curved fans are compact and functional in smaller systems, though they’re generally not the best choice for heavy-duty jobs.

The bottom line is: one fan doesn’t fit all. It’s important to pick a fan that matches both the air volume (measured in CFM—cubic feet per minute) and your system’s pressure needs (static pressure). Otherwise, you’ll either waste energy or fall short of capturing dust effectively.

Design and Performance Go Hand in Hand

How your ductwork is laid out and how many machines or collection points are in your shop also affect fan performance. The more complex the duct system, the more power the fan needs to push air through it. Sharp turns, multiple branches, and small-diameter piping add resistance, which the fan must overcome.

That’s why system design and fan selection should go hand in hand. A perfect fan won’t do much if attached to a poorly designed duct system. Likewise, a well-designed system won’t perform if the fan doesn’t have the muscle to handle it.

Energy Efficiency Matters, Too

Centrifugal fans usually run nonstop in industrial settings to consume much energy. Fortunately, there are ways to make them more efficient. High-efficiency motors and variable frequency drives (VFDs) can help adjust the fan speed based on real-time airflow demand. That means your system isn’t running harder than needed, and you’re not burning extra electricity.

It’s also worth mentioning that regular maintenance plays a significant role in efficiency. Over time, dust buildup on fan blades can throw the fan out of balance, cause vibration, and reduce performance. A fan that’s working harder than it should is not only wasting energy but also wearing itself out faster. So regular inspection and cleaning are essential, especially in dusty environments.

Safety and Compliance Are Non-Negotiable

Beyond performance and cost savings, there’s another critical reason to pay attention to your centrifugal fan: safety. Certain types of dust, especially from metals or organic materials, can be highly flammable or explosive under the right conditions. A properly designed and maintained fan helps minimize the risk by keeping dust moving and preventing buildup in the system.

Regulations from organizations like OSHA and the NFPA often require specific airflow rates or system designs to minimize these risks. The right centrifugal fan helps you stay compliant with these regulations and keeps your workplace safer for everyone.

The Pivotal Role Of Centrifugal Fans

Whether you’re setting up a new dust collection system or upgrading an existing one, don’t overlook the role of the fan. Choosing the right type, sizing it properly, and keeping it in good condition will help your system work better, last longer, and protect your people and equipment. For more information on centrifugal fans, contact Lindberg Process Equipment today.

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Understanding Centrifugal Force and Its Role in Fan Design

The principle of centrifugal force is central to the operation of centrifugal fans. As air moves in a circular path within the fan, it experiences a force that pushes it outward from the center of rotation. This force, known as centrifugal force, enables the fan to move large volumes of air effectively. The magnitude of the centrifugal force depends on three main factors:

• Mass of the Air: More air requires greater centrifugal force.
• Radius of the Circular Path: A smaller radius increases the centrifugal force.
• Rotational Speed: Faster impeller rotation generates more centrifugal force.

By understanding these principles, fan designers can engineer blade configurations and impeller geometries to optimize centrifugal force and enhance overall fan efficiency.

The Three Primary Types of Centrifugal Fan Blades

Centrifugal fans can be categorized based on their impeller blade design, each offering unique performance characteristics suitable for different applications:

Forward Curved Blades

Also known as “squirrel cage” fans, these blades curve in the direction of the impeller’s rotation. This design efficiently transfers kinetic energy to the air, resulting in high airflow rates, making them ideal for applications like HVAC systems and electronics cooling. However, they are less efficient at higher pressures and have limited static pressure capabilities.

Backward Curved Blades

These blades curve away from the direction of rotation, providing better airflow control and higher efficiency, especially in applications requiring higher static pressure. They are commonly used in industrial processes and data centers but tend to be noisier and costlier than forward curved blades.

Radial Blades

Oriented perpendicularly to the direction of rotation, radial blades are simple, robust, and handle high resistance well. They are suitable for industrial applications involving dusty or contaminated air, although they can be noisier and less efficient than backward curved blades in some scenarios.

The Influence of Blade Curvature on Fan Performance

The curvature of centrifugal fan blades significantly impacts performance:

Forward Curved Blades

Their curved profile effectively transfers kinetic energy, generating high airflow rates but also causing turbulence and resistance, which can reduce efficiency at higher pressures. They are better suited for low-pressure applications with high airflow demands.

Backward Curved Blades

Designed to minimize turbulence, these blades provide efficient airflow patterns and can handle higher static pressures. Their reduced turbulence and streamlined design enhance overall efficiency and lower noise levels compared to forward curved blades.

Radial Blades

Known for handling high resistance, radial blades generate high-pressure, high-velocity air output, making them ideal for applications with significant system resistance. However, they can be noisier and less efficient than backward curved blades in some uses.

The Influence of Blade Geometry on Fan Performance

Beyond curvature, blade geometry also impacts centrifugal fan efficiency:

Blade Thickness and Airfoil Design

Thinner blades with an airfoil-like shape, such as those in backward curved fans, are more aerodynamically efficient, converting kinetic energy into useful pressure and airflow while minimizing turbulence. Thicker, rectangular blades, like those in forward curved fans, are less efficient but more robust.

Blade Angle and Pitch

The blade angle and pitch can be adjusted to balance airflow and pressure generation. Adjusting these parameters optimizes the fan’s performance for specific application requirements.

Blade Count and Impeller Design

More blades can smooth airflow but increase the impeller’s weight and rotational inertia, potentially reducing efficiency. The impeller’s diameter and hub-to-tip ratio also affect performance, with larger diameters and optimized ratios improving efficiency and airflow capabilities.

Blade Count and Impeller Design

More blades can smooth airflow but increase the impeller’s weight and rotational inertia, potentially reducing efficiency. The impeller’s diameter and hub-to-tip ratio also affect performance, with larger diameters and optimized ratios improving efficiency and airflow capabilities.

Unlocking Centrifugal Fan Efficiency Through Blade Design

Blade design is a critical factor in centrifugal fan efficiency. By understanding the unique characteristics of different blade configurations, engineers and professionals can select the optimal fan for their applications. Advances in blade design, coupled with careful consideration of motor and housing design, will continue to drive improvements in fan performance, meeting the growing demand for energy-efficient air movement solutions. For more information on centrifugal fans, contact Lindberg Process Equipment today.

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Centrifugal fans are key players in temperature management, making them crucial components in both heating and cooling processes. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the workings of these fans within HVAC systems, explore their unique features, and uncover why they’re an industry favorite. So buckle up as we journey into the heart of HVAC systems and the indispensable role that centrifugal fans perform.

What Are Centrifugal Fans?

Centrifugal fans, also known as blowers, are mechanical devices designed to move air or other gasses in a direction at an angle to the incoming fluid. They play a crucial role in many industrial and commercial settings, including HVAC systems, where they regulate and circulate airflow.

The design of a centrifugal fan is relatively simple yet highly efficient. The fan consists of a central hub connected to a number of blades or ribs, arranged in a circular pattern. When the fan is powered on, the rotation of the hub causes the blades to spin, creating a difference in air pressure. This difference propels the air or gas outward from the fan, leading to movement or circulation.

Centrifugal fans come in various types, each designed for specific applications and conditions. These include forward curved fans, backward inclined fans, and radial fans. While their designs may vary, all centrifugal fans operate based on the same fundamental principle of converting rotational motion into kinetic energy to move air or other gasses.

How Do Centrifugal Fans Work in HVAC Systems?

Centrifugal fans play a dynamic role in the operation of HVAC systems, ensuring optimal air circulation and temperature control. The core function of these fans is to create a flow of air or gas and direct it in a specific path, either for process requirements or to provide ventilation.

In an HVAC system, the centrifugal fan starts its operation when the motor spins the fan blades. This spinning motion generates a high-pressure stream of air or gas, which is then directed towards the outlet of the fan. The speed at which the blades rotate determines the velocity and volume of the airflow, which can be adjusted based on the specific requirements of the HVAC system.

As the fan draws in air, it also facilitates the movement of heated or cooled air throughout the system. In a heating system, the fan helps distribute warm air produced by the furnace to different parts of a building. Conversely, in a cooling system, it aids in removing warm air, allowing cool air to replace it. Furthermore, centrifugal fans contribute significantly to maintaining indoor air quality. They help in expelling stale air and drawing in fresh outdoor air, providing efficient ventilation. They also assist in removing pollutants and maintaining humidity levels, ensuring a healthy and comfortable indoor environment.

Importance of Centrifugal Fans

Centrifugal fans hold immense importance in a wide range of applications, particularly in HVAC systems. Their primary function is to efficiently move air or gas in a specific direction, which is crucial for maintaining optimal environmental conditions in various settings.

One of the key reasons centrifugal fans are so important is their role in temperature regulation. In HVAC systems, these fans facilitate the distribution of heated or cooled air throughout a building, thus ensuring a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature. Whether it’s a sweltering summer day or a freezing winter night, centrifugal fans work tirelessly to create an ideal indoor climate.

Understanding the Importance of Centrifugal Fans

At Lindberg Process Equipment, we harness the power of these fans to deliver high-quality, tailor-made HVAC solutions that meet and exceed our clients’ expectations. We invite you to explore our range of products and services, and experience the difference that our commitment to excellence brings. Contact us today to learn more about how our innovative solutions can enhance your operations.

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However, when it comes to selecting the right type of centrifugal fan for a distinct application, the choice between forward and backward-curved blades can be difficult. 

Recently, backward centrifugal fans have become more popular due to their unique advantages over forward fans. In this article, we will explore the advantages of backward-curved centrifugal fans and why they might be the best option for your business.

What Is a Backward Curved Centrifugal Fan?

A backward-curved centrifugal fan is a type of centrifugal fan whose blades curve backward, meaning they curve against the direction of rotation. In other words, the direction of airflow is perpendicular to the direction of rotation. 

As air flows through the backward-curved blades, it experiences a direction change, increasing kinetic energy and pressure. This energy is then converted into static pressure as the air exits the fan.

Uses of Backward Curved Centrifugal Fans

Backward curved centrifugal fans are used widely in various industries for different applications such as:

HVAC Systems

Backward curved centrifugal fans are widely used in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems to circulate air throughout buildings. These fans can move large volumes of air at low pressures, which is essential for maintaining comfortable indoor environments. The backward curved design of the blades also reduces noise levels, making them a popular choice for residential and commercial buildings.

Industrial Processes

Industrial processes often require the movement of large volumes of air or gas at specific pressures to maintain the efficiency of the process. Backward-curved centrifugal fans can generate high static pressure levels while consuming little energy, making them the best choice for myriad industrial applications such as pneumatic conveying, dust collection, and drying processes.

Ventilation Systems

Ventilation systems are critical for maintaining healthy and safe indoor environments. Backward curved centrifugal fans are commonly used in ventilation systems to remove stale air and bring in the fresh air. These fans can move large volumes of air while maintaining a constant flow rate critical for preserving indoor air quality.

Power Generation

Power generation facilities such as gas turbine power plants and steam power plants require large amounts of air for combustion and cooling processes. Backward curved centrifugal fans can produce high volumes of air at distinct pressures. This makes them a suitable choice for power generation applications.

Advantages of Using Backward Curved Centrifugal Fans

Backward-curved centrifugal fans have several advantages over other fan types, making them a favored choice for many applications. Here are some of their key benefits:

Energy Efficient

Backward curved centrifugal fans can move large volumes of air or gas without consuming a ton of energy. In fact, studies have shown that backward-curved fans can be up to 20% more energy efficient than other types of fans. This can result in significant energy savings and lower operating costs over time for businesses.

Produce Low Noise

The backward-curved design of the fan blades reduces turbulence and noise levels during operation. Their low noise makes them a popular choice for applications where low noise levels are critical, such as in HVAC systems in residential and commercial buildings.

High Static Pressure

Backward curved centrifugal fans can generate high levels of static pressure, making them suitable for applications that require a specific pressure to be maintained, such as in industrial processes.

Low Maintenance

The design of backward curved centrifugal fans results in less wear and tear on the blades, resulting in lower maintenance requirements and longer service life.

Flexible Design

Backward curved centrifugal fans can be designed in a variety of sizes and configurations to meet the specific needs of different applications. This makes them a versatile choice for any business as they offer a wide range of airflow rates and pressures.

So, Why Should You Choose Backward Curved Centrifugal Fans?

Backward curved centrifugal fans offer many advantages that make them useful for numerous applications. They are low maintenance, energy efficient, produce low noise, and can be designed in a range of sizes and configurations. Contact Lindberg Process Equipment today to learn more about backward curved centrifugal fans and whether they are the right choice for your business. 

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Water mist systems can effectively help in dust abatement and help protect workers’ health and safety. The water particles in the mist can envelop dust particles, preventing them from becoming airborne. As the moisture evaporates, it cools and humidifies the work environment and eradicates excess dust particles in the air.

This guide will analyze the reasons why a water mist system is effective in dust abatement and provide recommendations for implementing a successful system.

Reasons Why Water Mist Systems Are Effective in Dust Abatement

Water mist systems can create water droplets that can envelop dust particles, preventing them from becoming airborne. Additionally, the system can produce a mist that can humidify the air, and reduce dust particles. The mist can also cool the air, helping with the suppression of workplace temperatures. Here are reasons why water mist systems are effective dust abatement tools:

Reduces Airborne Particulate Matter

A water mist system can reduce airborne particulate matter by suppressing dust particles. The system can envelop the particles and reduce their existence. Suppression of these particles can help to protect workers in the vicinity from exposure to harmful particulate matter.

Humidifies the Air

A water mist system can increase humidity levels in the workplace, which can help reduce the dust particles present. It can prevent the particles from staying airborne and reduce their ability to travel long distances. As a result, it can reduce the dust in the work environment.

Also, increased humidity levels can reduce workplace temperatures and provide employees with a more comfortable working environment.

Cooling Effect

The water mist cools the air by evaporating, which can help reduce workplace temperatures. The cooling effect can produce droplets that can envelop dust particles in the atmosphere, making it a safer and healthier workplace.

Additionally, the effect can make it more comfortable for workers, which can improve productivity levels.

Recommendations for Implementing a Successful System

An effective dust abatement system involves targeting the primary dust source to ensure maximum effectiveness. Additionally, it should be tailored to meet your specific needs and the environment in which it is used. Here are some recommendations for implementing a successful water mist system:

Identify the Primary Dust Source

You can look for areas with high dust or particulate matter concentrations and focus on these areas. With this, you can ensure maximum dust suppression and significantly rescue excess airborne dust matter.

Also, you can consider the size, shape, and particle types present in the environment to ensure your system can effectively reduce or eliminate them.

Adjust the Settings

You can adjust the system’s settings to ensure it works effectively and provides adequate dust abatement. For instance, you can tweak the settings to change the water amount added and ensure it is used most effectively.

Additionally, you can also use different nozzles for different locations and types of dust particles. Eventually, the variations can help to ensure the system is targeted most effectively.

Choose the Correct Size System

Choosing a water mist system with the right size for your work environment is essential. For example, a system that is too large can be overly expensive, while one that is too small may not be compelling enough.

Also, the hardware you use for your dust abatement system can be tailored to meet your specific needs. The nozzle, pump, and other components can be customized to ensure you get the most out of your system.

You should consider using the EMI controls equipment as they provide high-quality components and equipment that can ensure your workplace is safe and free from dust particles.

Regular Maintenance

You can practice regular maintenance practices, to keep your water mist system running effectively and efficiently. The practices can include cleaning the nozzles, replacing damaged parts, and checking for leaks.

Consequently, the tasks can ensure the system is working correctly and provide maximum dust abatement.

Get a Water Mist System for Effective Dust Abatement

A water mist system can provide effective dust abatement in a work environment. It can reduce airborne particulate matter amounts and increase humidity levels in the workplace. However, it is essential to identify the primary dust source and tailor the settings for maximum effectiveness.

Additionally, you can choose a system that is the right size for your environment and perform regular maintenance to ensure it works correctly.

Contact Lindberg Process Equipment today to learn more about EMI Controls and our dust abatement solutions.

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However, industrial manufacturers know that even little portions of dust can be problematic. Besides, they understand how a dust collection system can help reduce air pollution, and improve fire protection measures.

By improving the air quality, dust collection systems facilitate healthier work conditions. Before understanding the benefits of a dust collection system, you’ll need to know what it is and how it works. Read on to learn why dust collection is important to heavy manufacturing.

What Is a Dust Collection System?

Dust collection systems are industrial machines that help remove dirt, debris, gasses, chemicals, and dust from the air. By doing so, dust collectors help provide your manufacturing plant with better air quality.

How a Dust Collection System Works

A dust collector sucks air in from a particular application and processes it through a filtering system. This leads to the atmospheric particulate matter being deposited into a collection area.

Afterward, the purified air gets directed back to the facility or released into the environment. Still, the filtering structure of dust collection systems varies from one plant to another. This depends on the dust materials produced.

Depending on your needs and usage, your dust collection system parts will vary in size, capacity, and material. Even so, most of these systems function under the same principles and use similar parts. These parts include:

• Exhaust hoods that catch dust
• Ducts that transport the dust particles to a collection area
• Collectors that remove the dust from the air
• Fans and motors that produce exhaust power

So, what are the benefits of dust collection systems?

The Benefits of Dust Collection in the Heavy Industry

There are many merits of dust collection systems for industrial manufacturers. These benefits include:

Improved Health and Safety

You risk affecting your lungs when you breathe in air contaminated with debris, dirt, dust, chemicals, and gasses. Besides, accumulating these materials on or close to your equipment can pose a significant risk to fire outbreaks.

Two options for explosion and fire protection are active and passive systems. An active dust collection system will be capable of detecting sparks or fire automatically. Then, the system releases a chemical to ensure fire protection throughout the collection system.

A passive system may refer to the installation or expansion of an explosion vent. So, the system directs all the pressure and flames away from the areas where your workers are and other combustibles.

Through combustible dust collection, these harmful substances get cleansed from the air. This leads to better air quality, thus good health. By removing the accumulating contaminants, you also increase your fire protection.

Increased Productivity

When dust, dirt, and debris gather on your manufacturing equipment, they make their way inside. Unfortunately, this will interfere with the mechanical operation of your equipment. As a result, you’ll have machines that work slower than normal or broken equipment.

When you have compromised machinery, you’ll need to seek mechanical repairs and attention more often than you should. A dust collection system can help do away with these risks, allowing your machines and equipment to operate at top performance.

Increased Product Quality

When dust and dirt get released into the environment, they can collect on products throughout your manufacturing process. Unfortunately, these particles will negatively affect the quality of your finished products.

Dust collection helps to remove the dust, fumes, and smoke available in the air. So, you keep the contaminants away from your finished goods. This improves the quality of your products and enhances your customer satisfaction.

Meet Compliance Regulations

Today, you’ll find many laws, rules, and regulations that guide your workplace safety. Among these compliance regulations are those related to the air quality and the environment. For instance, OSHA guidelines aim to enforce workforce safety rules and regulate workers’ exposure to these harmful contaminants.

Other agencies that enforce workplace safety include Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). If your manufacturing plant doesn’t mind poor air quality, you risk getting fined heavily.

Also, you risk creating potential health hazards that can affect your employees and the reputation of your factory. Dust collection will help you abide by these laws and regulations, avoiding hefty fines.

Motivated Employees

Poor air quality in your factory environment is undesirable and will make your employees suffer. Therefore, your staff becomes unmotivated and unhappy. Besides, they may start seeking employment from your competitors. Employees who lack motivation won’t perform their duties to the expected standards. Besides, high employee turnover can become costly for your factory.

Dust collection will help maintain the air clean and healthy in your factory environment. That way, you boost the morale of your staff. So, you experience high employee retention. Also, you experience increased productivity within your manufacturing facility.

Dust Collection in Heavy Industry

As outlined above, a dust collection system in your factory has many benefits. Industrial manufacturers face the challenge of recruiting and retaining skilled welders.

So, if the work environment is full of dust and harmful fumes, workers will find it unhealthy to work for you. Ensure you maintain a safe and healthy workplace to attract and retain the best staff.

Contact Lindberg Process Equipment today to learn more about dust collection systems for heavy industry.

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Heavy Duty Axial Fans

Propeller or axial fans are popular for conducting large masses of air from one area to another. A motor drives the propelling blades into a rotating action. This action creates airflow that runs parallel to the axial point of the motor.

Kinetic energy created by the suction of the rotating blades helps reduce the pressure on the blades, increases efficacy, and assists the motor. In this pressure exchange, the negative and excess pressure balance remains equal.

Applying an additional diffuser helps offset the balance and increases extra pressure as needed. Axial fans (tube axial or axial vane fans) work best with ducts.

Pros of Axial Fans

• Inexpensive ventilation, cooling, and exhaust solution
• Easy to install, AC and DC adaptable
• Low pressure and high volume fans
• Versatile cooling application (offices, residential, equipment)
• Manufactured from different materials like aluminum or stainless steel
• Various sizes and economical performance
• HVAC, condenser, and heat exchange compatible

Cons of Axial Fans

• Unable to build pressure
• Noise pollution in some areas of application

Axial fans are suitable for warehouse exhaust and ventilation systems. They work well in paint and welding booths, auto shops, textile, paper, steel mills, engine and equipment departments, spot cooling, and maximizing air ventilation.

Companies like Intel® and Cisco Systems® are regenerating the vending machine market and revamping axial fan uses.

Applications for Centrifugal Fans

Centrifugal fans have one distinct advantage over axial fans. They generate high-pressure flow and are also called blowers. The engineering behind centrifugal fans takes advantage of the circular hub on which the fan blades are mounted.

This engineering decision allows air suction inside the housing, creates and builds pressure, and releases that air at a 90° angle outward in any suitable direction. This application of higher pressure drives the use of centrifugal fans when a singular fan unit needs to maneuver air through greater but defined distances like in ducts and tubes.

Manufactured and engineered to house the blades in a casing, it makes them more durable and protected from incoming objects like rocks or other mining debris that might damage the blades. Centrifugal fans are a great power partner for air conditioning units in large or small-scale operations.

Electronic devices like laptops also rely on centrifugal fans to extract heat and expel it at 90° from the source. This feature makes centrifugal fans very versatile in many applications.

Centrifugal fans are a vital component in creating safer mining environments. Suitable for these high-efficiency tasks, centrifugal fans operate on consistent pressure streams. However, they can’t move larger masses of air like axial fans.

Pros of Centrifugal Fans

• Conduct dedicated high-pressure airflow
• Enclosed impellers for increased longevity and safety
• Forward and backward curved impellers
• Ability to create suction and or blowing effect
• Directional venting
• AC and DC compatible
• Variable sizes

Cons of Centrifugal Fans

• Emission of noise volume (louder than axial)
• Higher power consumption
• Expensive
• Heavier units to install

Centrifugal fan applications include underground coal mines, metal processing facilities, food and meal production, recycling depots, woodworking industries, chemical and coal-fired plants, and power generators and process markets.

Choosing the right fan system for any project is vital in the design phase. Both fans work well if used in the right environment and industrial application.

Noise Levels Generated by Fans

Axial and centrifugal fans create electromagnetic interference (EMI) and are classified as distinct radiated EMI (the fan) or conducted EMI (power). Additional interference is produced by unbalanced magnetic fields (UMF) from the motor’s magnets and stator (stationary) components.

Noise levels are a huge deciding factor addressed during the project’s design phase. A notable aspect is that DC-operated fans generate less EMI than their AC-powered counterparts.

In addition, fans also create operating noise. Noise factors depend on usage, location, volumes of air, type of bearings, and fan size. Using the correct fan type in each application contributes to noise level reductions.

Choosing the best location for the fan and installing air grills and outlet diffusers can impact noise decibels. Cubic feet per minute (CFM) rates are also important considerations and should work in tandem with the type of fan and the air volume they’re designated to move.

Larger volumes of air driven by a larger fan create less noise than a smaller fan tackling the same volumes of air.

Making Your Choice Between Axial and Centrifugal Fans

Understanding the complexities and efficiencies that axial fans and centrifugal fans supply is essential in understanding each fan system’s benefits. Failure to install them correctly can be a costly endeavor.

Contact the experts at Lindberg Process Equipment today to learn more about the right type of fan for your project.

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Dust extraction systems are essential for workplace safety as they help control combustible dust. To avoid the risk of fire and explosion in your workplace, you need to be equipped with the most productive extraction system on the market.

Keep reading to learn which dust extraction systems we recommend to keep you, your employees, and your workplace safe.

What Is Combustible Dust?

Is combustible dust different from the regular dust in your home? And why do you need an industrial system to control it?

Combustible dust is in fact much different than dust on a bookshelf or picture frame. Combustible dust is any fine particle that has the ability to catch fire and explode when mixed with certain air conditions.

Combustible dusts can contain particles from:

• Metals
• Sugar
• Flour
• Wood
• Grain
• Pesticides
• Rubber
• Plastics
• Textiles

Many of these materials are not normally thought of as combustible. However, if the particles are the right size and in the right concentration, they can burn or erupt.

Similar to dust in your home, combustible dust can collect on a wide variety of surfaces. You can find combustible dust on:

• Roofs
• Drop ceilings
• Rafters
• Ducts
• Fissures
• Other workplace equipment

Letting even a small amount of combustible dust build up can cause serious damage. If the dust is disrupted in the correct circumstances, there is a large risk for a dangerous explosion. Dust explosions can cause injuries, deaths, and the destruction of entire buildings. In many previous combustible dust explosions, staff members were unaware that the hazard existed.

Fires are caused by 3 elements working together: oxygen, heat, and fuel. In this case, the fuel is combustible dust. Dust explosions occur when 5 elements work together: oxygen, heat, fuel, dispersion, and confinement.

Dispersion is when dust particles scatter in a large quantity. Confinement refers to the event occurring in an enclosed structure such as a room, building, or piece of equipment. If one of the 5 elements are missing, an explosion will not take place.

How to Best Control Combustible Dust

It is paramount to assess if your workplace has a combustible dust hazard. Research and ask yourself these questions about your workplace:

• Do you manufacture or use materials that can become dust?
• Does your workplace perform tasks that create dust, such as cutting, blasting, polishing, or grinding?
• Does your workplace have ignition sources such as sparks, stoves, or welding flames?
• Can dust accumulate on equipment or overhead structures?

If you perform research that suggests the dust in your workplace is combustible, you need to take preventative measures to control it.

Implement a dust inspection and care plan for combustion systems, and be sure to use cleaning methods that do not result in dust clouds. Upgrade to surfaces that minimize dust accumulation.

Most importantly, install a proper dust extraction system. Dust extraction systems control and eliminate combustible dust from a confined space. Extraction systems are superior to fans which end up stirring the dust and making the situation worse.

Place the inlet of the extraction system as close to the dust production as possible. The inlet can be connected to a duct system that connects to multiple machines throughout the workplace. The duct system will either filter the air and return it to the workplace, or it will expel all of the contaminated air into the atmosphere.

ENGLO Dust Extraction Technology

At Lindberg, we recommend ENGLO dust extraction systems for workplaces that need an extraction system. ENGLO systems are efficient, compact, and reliable. These incredible systems are designed to remove 99.7% of combustible dust particles from dirty airstreams.

ENGLO dust extractors are unique because they encapsulate the dust particles into atomized water. These systems are versatile and allow for multiple uses.

ENGLO features a product range of 16 impressive models that are sure to accomplish the specific needs of your workplace. ENGLO professionals perform a 5-step procedure to ensure that your workplace is properly equipped:

1. Site Specific Evaluation. They match the highest possible quality with your budget.
2. Unit Sizing. The project engineer determines any additional equipment or ducting needed to complete the installation.
3. Application and Engineering. ENGLO recommends a dust extractor that best fits the needs of the customer. Engineers assist in the design and layout of the system.
4. Manufacture and Delivery. ENGLO custom manufacturers every extraction unit. Delivery is coordinated with the needs of the client.
5. Commissioning. Only the best installers are hired by ENGLO, and they ensure proper installation. ENGLO engineers are available for startup and commissioning.

Industries That Benefit From Dust Extraction Systems

Any workplace that generates dust through cutting, blasting, crushing, or mixing dry materials is potentially at risk of combustible dust. However, certain industries are almost guaranteed to benefit from a dust extraction system:

• Underground coal mining
• Cold-fired power plants
• Food production facilities
• Chemical manufacturing
• Woodworking facilities
• Metal processing plants
• Recycling facilities

Do you see your industry on that list? Be sure to conduct the proper hazard inspections and begin the process of ordering a dust extraction system if you have not already. A high quality dust extraction system in your workplace could be the difference between the life and death of your workers.

Stay Safe With Dust Extraction Systems

Keep your workplace and the people in it protected from combustible dust explosions by installing a dust extraction system. Even after the system is installed, be sure to stay on top of a care and housekeeping schedule in your workplace.

As technology continues to advance, our industries can be safer for us and the next generation of workers. Are you ready to protect your workplace with an efficient ENGLO dust extraction system? Contact a Lindberg representative who will be happy to help get you started on your path to a safer workplace.

The post The Most Efficient Dust Extraction Systems to Control Combustible Dust appeared first on Lindberg Process Equipment.

Understanding a fan curve gives you the advantage. If you want to select the fan that best suits your needs and your requirements, you’re going to need to be able to read a fan curve.

What Is a Fan Curve?

A fan curve is a way to graphically understand the performance of a particular fan. With this data, you are able to decide which fan works best for your application and make a more informed decision about the purchase you are making.

A fan performance curve is essentially a graphical representation of exactly what a fan can do.

Fan curves illustrate a few key points — including:

• CFM (cubic feet per minute)
• RPM (revolutions per minute)
• SP (static pressure)
• BHP (brake horsepower)

Understanding how these measurements work means that you need to understand where they sit on the graph.

Horizontal Bottom Axis: Air Volume Flow Rate (SCFM or m3/sec.)

Vertical Left Axis: Static Pressure (inches water gauge, pascals, or mm water gauge)

Vertical Right Axis: Brake horsepower (BHP or KW)

Ok, so now that we understand where certain measurements lie on the graph, it’s time to dive into exactly how to read them.

When you’re looking at a fan curve, what you’re actually seeing is two performance curves related to the same fan. This relationship will paint a picture of a fan’s performance and give you a better picture of what type of fan works best for your application.

Once you get to know all of the acronyms and understand exactly how these measurements work, you’ll be better equipped to make the right decision.

CFM vs. SP Curves

The SP or Static Pressure Curve — shows a very specific relationship. This type of fan performance curve shows the static pressure capabilities of a fan compared with the fan’s air volume flow rate for a specific fan speed.

CFM vs. BHP Curves

Like we mentioned, once you get to know the acronyms these fan names start to make sense. This particular curve illustrates the correlation between a fan’s air volume flow rate and its brake horsepower

Choosing Your CFM

Select your desired CFM and get to work. Draw a line vertically upwards to intersect the CFM and SP curves.

Choosing Your SP

You’ll want to draw a horizontal line through your vertical left axis at the fan pressure you want, right where it intersects the vertical line you just drew. If the intersection of these two lines is not directly on the curve — you have a little more work to do.

You have to calculate and draw a System Curve and go back…redraw the fan curve at a different RPM.

Choose Your Motor Horsepower

To select your desired motor horsepower, draw a line vertically up from the intersection of the System Curve and the SF vs. SP curve — all the way to where it crosses the CFM vs. BHP curve for the chosen fan. This information helps you find the BHP you will need to have for the desired pressure and CFM at a certain fan speed.

There You Have It

It seems pretty complicated but once you see it and understand how the measurements correlate, it becomes much simpler. Choosing the right fan for the right application is essential. Don’t get stuck not knowing. Learning all you can about fan performance curves puts the power in your hands.

The post How To Read a Fan Performance Curve appeared first on Lindberg Process Equipment.

You want a fan that is efficient, simple to install and use, low-maintenance and good value. The Howden American Fan Company offers this. They are an established manufacturing brand that routinely produces the highest rated centrifugal fans on the market. Here we review the best they have to offer, so you know what to look out for on your hunt.

What Makes an Efficient Centrifugal Fan?

There’s a reason centrifugal fans are more popular than axial ones. Put shortly, centrifugal fans are built to handle medium and large-scale pressures and volume flows, so an efficient centrifugal blower should be able to do so easily.

Some of the best on the market, like the Howden BCA fan, have intelligently-designed gauges that allow a whopping 100,000 cubic feet of air to be removed per minute. By far one of the highest yields on the current market.

Value

Centrifugal blowers fan are an important investment that you should never cut corners with, given how central they are to safety. However, you also want to know you’re getting good value. This means choosing fans which come loaded with the most recent technological bolt-ons for a reasonable price.

Take for example the Howden SMB, a general, fairly basic blower that won’t cost you much. While having all the features of a small-scale centrifugal fan, it also comes packaged with extra features. These include a huge scale of different pressure selections, grease lubricated pillow blocks to extend the lifespan, and innovative weather covers for outdoor protection.

Always check the add-ons to see if you’re really getting bang for your buck.

Safety

Choosing a safe centrifugal blower fan should always be your number one concern, which means starting with an established and experienced manufacturer like Howden. Firstly you’ll want to make sure the material is hardy enough to withstand hot air flows (Howden fans are made with fortified American steel).

Also, make sure to choose a fan designed to avoid the everyday hazards that accompany industrial fans. For example, most Howden fans come equipped with cooling mechanisms. They also come with guards and components which prevent debris from entering the fan and damaging it. If your centrifugal fan doesn’t have these features, considering switching.

Durability

A centrifugal blower should be able to operate a full capacity for several years, so make sure yours is equipped for this. Common features across most Howden fans include corrosion-resistant coatings. They also include spark resistant construction, adjustable belt drives, and fortified materials.

You’ll need features like this if you’re planning on having your fan last longer than a couple of years.

Learn More

Choosing a centrifugal fan can be daunting, but being armed with the right information makes it easy. Make sure to get in touch with any questions you have about how to find the right blower for you.

The post The Best Centrifugal Fans Reviewed appeared first on Lindberg Process Equipment.