TYPES OF CENTRIFUGAL BLOWERS
CENTRIFUGAL FANS: THE THREE MAIN TYPES There are three main types of centrifugal blower, based on the design of their impeller: • Forward curved – facetiously dubbed the ‘hamster wheel’ type. These fans have the greatest specific output relative to their size, but often at the cost of efficiency. • Backward curved – these are generally much more efficient than their forward-curved counterparts but are larger and less compact. • Radial – these centrifugal fans are simple, robust and capable of working against high resistance. SPACE: WILL YOUR CENTRIFUGAL FAN FIT? The main elements of the production line expand within a finite area of available factory space, so there becomes less room for add-ons such as blowers and their associated ducting. This can be frustrating if you need to upgrade your fan because a faster production line has created the need for greater air delivery. But don’t despair – some very compact centrifugal blowers are now available. These are mostl...