Factors To Consider While Selecting Industrial Process Fans
                     FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHILE SELECTING INDUSTRIAL PROCESS 
FANS
Neel Rao
Writes for Reitzindia.com on 
Industrial centrifugal fans or 
Industrial centrifugal fan ID/FD fans i.e. induced 
draught fans and forced draft fans
Selecting an industrial process fan is a critical decision with a 
significant impact on operational efficiency and performance. Given 
a myriad of choices, it is imperative to be aware of the different 
influencing factors in the selection of fans to achieve optimal 
performance. Whether it is specific airflow needs and panting 
pressures, environmental conditions, or audible noises, all of these 
factors are critical to consider when selecting the most effective fan 
to use in your project. The goal of this article is to provide you with 
the key points to keep in mind when it comes to the selection of 
industrial fans.
Airflow Requirements
Airflow lies at the core of the selection process. Airflow is typically 
measured in cubic feet per minute(CFM). Airflow represents the 
gross volume of air that will be moved in the process system by the 
fan. This parameter is essential to get right. Unless the fan is able 
to produce the required volume, your system will not operate as 
intended. This might simply mean that cooling or ventilation is less 
effective, or leads to greater loading on other components, which 
increases downtime and maintenance costs. Conversely, the 
temptation to oversize the fan may appear to be a safe solution, 
but it may be one that creates unwanted energy consumption and 
excess wear. The aim is to determine the precise amount of airflow 
that your process needs and align the fan capacity to the 
appropriate amount of airflow.
•Requirements of Static Pressure
•Another important consideration is the static pressure. Imagine it as the friction that 
the fan must overcome when the air gets through the ducts, filters, and other system 
parts. The extent of this resistance may differ significantly depending on the complexity 
and design of your setup. Unless the fan is adequately powerful to counter this 
pressure, air movement will be reduced and performance will be compromised. 
Conversely, an overpowered fan may consume excessive energy and generate 
excessive noise. For these reasons, an accurate and scientific assessment of the static 
pressure of your system is essential. Such an exercise helps to select an appropriate fan 
that delivers the required airflow in an efficient manner without undue strain on the 
fan.
•Energy Efficiency
•The parameter of energy efficiency is a very critical one – it is a non-negotiable factor 
due to its impact on the operational running costs and ecological considerations. The 
more efficient fans have lower power consumption and a lower carbon footprint in  
your facility. This is not simply about being green but about ‘bringing’ business. The 
cumulative energy savings can be substantial over the lifetime of a fan. Many times, it 
can be a better choice financially, even though the upfront cost may be higher for that 
fan. There is a need to not only consider the initial cost of the model but also the total 
cost of ownership, including energy consumption, maintenance, and potential 
downtime.
Environmental Conditions
The conditions under which your fan will work cannot be ignored. Work 
environments are seldom homogeneous. The manufacturing facilities in one 
process may experience high heat, while another deals with dampness and 
dust. Yet another manufacturing unit may involve corrosive chemicals. It is 
important to select a fan that is engineered to withstand the environment in 
your manufacturing plant. This ensures the industrial fans have a longer 
lifespan and safeguards your investment in the equipment. As an example, 
stainless steel or corrosion-preventing coatings may be applied in some 
factories with a corrosive environment. Usage of sealed bearings and motors 
to exclude dust and water is another option. In order to pick the right design, 
an accurate and objective assessment of the environmental challenges in that 
manufacturing unit is essential.
Noise Levels
Noise measurements are usually underestimated. However, significant effects 
on workplace comfort and regulatory compliance can be substantial. The loud 
fan may be acceptable for certain operations, but when it is surrounded by 
employees spending long hours in proximity, it may cause fatigue and 
reduced productivity. Legal implications may also arise in case noise 
transcends permitted levels. When considering the fan specifications, be sure 
to note the decibel rating and how the location of the fan and any additional 
noise reduction will impact the overall audio ambiance.
Size and Space Constraints
Practical considerations such as physical size and constraints of the 
installation may also come into play. Your facility may be limited in space to 
house equipment, or particular locations may necessitate a fan that is smaller 
or lighter in weight to be managed more easily. One of the important aspects 
is ensuring that the fan fits within the allocated area without minimizing 
airflow. Also, take into account maintenance accessibility. Fans with limited 
accessibility or ability to clean and maintain may make regular inspection and 
maintenance a dubious concern with increased idle time and labor costs.
Budget Considerations
Another important dimension is the pricing of the equipment. While the 
cheapest option may seem very appealing initially, it may not make economic 
sense later. Cheaper alternatives may be less energy efficient, adding to 
higher operating costs. In addition, they could wear out prematurely or need 
more frequent servicing. It is better to assess from a long-term perspective 
the impact of the efficiency, durability, and ease of maintenance of the fan on 
your costs of operation in the long run. In many cases, it is worth spending a 
little extra at the beginning to see the benefits of less energy consumption 
and fewer disruptions.
Conclusion
Overall, when it comes to choosing the correct industrial process fan, it is not 
merely a matter of paper specifications. It necessitates a careful evaluation of 
the airflow and air pressure requirements of your system, the objectives with 
energy, the aspects of the environment, the tolerances of noise, space, and 
the budget. By putting in the time to assess these factors in detail, one will 
have acquired a fan that not merely satisfies your operational requirements 
but that can also provide long-term efficiency and reliability. When you make 
the correct selection, your fan transforms into a reliable workhorse that helps 
to maintain your processes under the process, provide cost control, and 
maintain a safe and comfortable working environment.
About REITZINDIA
Reitz India has set a benchmark to deliver high quality fans for heavy duty industries 
which can work at precise operating conditions like high temperatures and 
pressures. Reitz offer idealistic Centrifugal Fan and Centrifugal blower design that 
can be used in all large scale process industries like cement, iron & steel, power 
plants, fertilizers/ chemicals and more.
Thank you for spending your precious time in reading this article!