What Is the Difference Between Axial and Centrifugal Blowers?

Axial and centrifugal blowers are two types of fans used to move air or gases. They operate on different principles and have distinct design characteristics. Here are the main differences between axial and centrifugal blowers:

 

1. Airflow Direction of Axial and Centrifugal Blowers:

The primary difference between axial and centrifugal blowers is the direction of airflow. In an axial air mover, the air moves parallel to the fan's axis of rotation. It enters the fan axially and exits in the same direction. In contrast, a centrifugal blower moves air perpendicular to the fan's axis. The air enters radially and is discharged tangentially.

 

2. Design of Axial and Centrifugal Blowers:

Axial blowers have a relatively simple design. They consist of a set of blades or propellers mounted on a central hub. The blades rotate around the axis, drawing air in and pushing it out. Centrifugal blowers, on the other hand, have a more complex design. They feature a curved impeller or rotor with multiple blades that rotate within a housing. The impeller's shape causes the air to change direction as it passes through, creating a pressure difference and generating airflow. A centrifugal air mover is designed to generate high flow rates and pressures required for many industrial processes.

 

3. Pressure Generation of Axial and Centrifugal Blowers:

Centrifugal blowers are known for generating higher pressures compared to axial blowers. The centrifugal design creates a higher static pressure as the air is forced to change direction, resulting in increased resistance. This makes centrifugal blowers more suitable for applications that require significant airflow resistance or when air needs to be pushed over longer distances. Axial blowers, on the other hand, are better suited for low-pressure, high-volume applications where resistance is minimal.

 

4. Efficiency of Axial and Centrifugal Blowers:

Generally, centrifugal blowers tend to be more efficient than axial blowers. The centrifugal design allows for better energy transfer from the motor to the airflow, resulting in higher efficiency. Axial blowers, although simpler in design, may have lower efficiency due to factors such as blade aerodynamics and the potential for airflow recirculation.

 

5. Noise Level of Axial and Centrifugal Blowers:

Axial blowers are generally quieter compared to centrifugal blowers. The axial airflow path and simpler design contribute to lower noise levels. Centrifugal blowers, especially at higher speeds and pressures, tend to produce more noise due to the increased air resistance and more complex airflow patterns.

 

6. Applications of Axial and Centrifugal Blowers:

The choice between axial and centrifugal blowers depends on the specific application requirements. Axial blowers are commonly used in applications that require high airflow rates with relatively low pressure, such as cooling electronic components, ventilation systems, and air circulation in large spaces. Centrifugal blowers find application in situations where higher pressures are needed, such as industrial ventilation, HVAC systems, pneumatic conveying, and air handling in confined spaces. Preair offers industrial air movers for sale. There are types of air movers provided by Preair, such as centrifugal, axial, snail air movers, and HEPA air scrubbers.

 

It's worth noting that there are variations and subtypes within both axial and centrifugal blowers, each designed for specific applications. The choice between them depends on factors like desired airflow, pressure requirements, space limitations, efficiency goals, and noise considerations.