Abstract

The engineering and application aspects of centrifugal blowers, ie, high pressure, low volume air delivery, and axial fans, low pressure, high volume air delivery are presented. The types of centrifugal blowers and their uses, typical installation practice, noise, and performance is discussed. Performance curves are defined. Air delivery is effected by blade designs as well as application, especially in the petrochemical field, is detailed including selection, noise prediction, and fan vibration problems. Various means of air flow control from damper, controllable pitch fans to variable speed drives are discussed, and a list of primary U.S. and world manufacturers is given.

Keywords: Fans; Blowers; Centrifugal fans; Fan laws; Performance; Design; Noise; Vibration; Types; Characteristics; Fan selection; Capacity control