5 Shopping Specifications for an Exhaust Fan
People working in large factories and in other buildings require a constant flow of fresh air. The fumes emanating from factories or restrooms, if not properly vented out can be suffocating. In some factories, the putrid smell of irritating fumes can be a real health hazard.
Providing adequate ventilation in industries and other facilities where people work is very critical. A functional ventilation system expels unwanted fumes and smoke while at the same time drawing in much-needed fresh air. One of the most effective types of ventilation systems is a commercial exhaust fan.
To ensure a continuous flow of fresh air, you need fans, vents, or both. The rate of air volume flow, besides other factors, determines which model will provide optimal performance. Before you buy a commercial exhaust fan, there are a number of parameters to guide you in making the right choice. The following are some of the factors to consider when buying a commercial exhaust fan:
1. Specifications: Belt Drive or Direct
Although the two models fulfill the same function, they are used differently. While a Direct Drive fan deals with lower volume CFM and lower static pressure, it is easy to maintain and operates in tandem with speed control. It also makes it possible to adjust CFM. Belt Drive fans on the other hand feature CFMs of over 2,000, which is high compared to that of Direct Drive fans. The fans have adjustable pulleys, which allow easy adjustment of speeds.
2. Specifications: Cubic Feet Per Minute
This parameter has to do with a fan’s volume of air exchange. After selecting a fan, establish and record what does, or does not, qualify as ideal ventilation. Considerations such as how many fans are needed within a certain range should depend on the geographic location and the workstation level.
3. Specifications: Static Pressure
This is another important consideration. You can measure a fan’s static pressure by inches of water. For most fans, up to 2” SP, o 0.072 Psi is adequate. Solving static pressure issues is a question of observing the correct ductwork and duct length.
4. Specifications: Sound Levels
Commercial exhaust fans are noisy. It is important to ensure that you buy a commercial exhaust fan with the appropriate sound levels. The sound produced by a fan is called a sone and can be measured linearly.
5. Design Components
The design of your commercial exhaust fan depends on a number of variables. Some are made of galvanized steel and automatic belt tensioning systems. Your commercial exhaust fan model can feature a 36” or a 48” diameter propeller. Always ensure that the interior of your fan carries an OSHA guard. These types of fans are designed for use in existing framed openings. They also come with dampers.
You can also purchase an aluminum or a galvanized steel commercial roof exhaust fan, which features a vertical discharge design with dampers for keeping rain and snow out, even when they are operational. When not in use, the counterbalanced dampers shut until the next time they are used. You can use either belt- or direct-driven fan with blades featuring diameters of between 24 to 84 inches.
You can also choose from a variety of commercial roof vent fans that range from single and 3 phases, ¼ to 20 horsepower, Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled, Open Drip-Proof, explosion-proof, or Totally Enclosed Ball Bearing.
Having the appropriate commercial exhaust fans at your facility helps keep everyone safe by making sure that smoke or irritating fumes do not interfere with their work and health. These fans work by expelling or venting the irritating air while sucking in fresh air to keep the enclosures adequately aerated.
