Howden Industrial Fans

Howden fans serve applications such as process airflow, ventilation, combustion air, and exhaust. Our page features axial, centrifugal, and fume-exhaust solutions, with selection based on the required duty and environment.

An axial fan moves gas generally along its shaft axis, while a centrifugal fan directs gas outward through an impeller. Compare their performance curves, installation needs, and suitability for the intended pressure and flow.

Forced draft equipment pushes air into a process, while induced draft equipment draws gas out. The arrangement affects the fan's exposure to temperature and contaminants and must be reflected in equipment selection.

Our page describes options for challenging temperature and process conditions. The particular fan must be specified for the gas, contaminants, operating temperature, and pressure rather than assuming every model has the same capability.

Determine the required flow, system pressure losses, gas density, temperature, and operating range. Include the connected ductwork and process equipment so the selected fan's expected operating point matches the actual installation.

Density influences the pressure and power associated with moving a given volume of gas. Temperature, elevation, and gas composition should therefore be included when comparing fan performance data with the intended duty.

It can form part of a properly designed extraction system. Effective capture also depends on hoods, ductwork, treatment equipment, and discharge arrangements, with fan materials and construction matched to the process stream.

Bends, transitions, and obstructions near the fan can create uneven flow and additional losses. A suitable layout helps the installed fan approach its expected performance and can reduce unnecessary pressure and power requirements.

Where approved for the fan and drive, speed control can help match output to changing demand. Review the required operating range, mechanical limits, and process response before choosing the control strategy.

Potential causes include deposits on the impeller, wear, imbalance, misalignment, loose supports, or bearing problems. Investigation should consider operating speed and process conditions as well as the mechanical condition of the fan.

Possible causes include duct restrictions, damper changes, deposits, drive problems, or changed system resistance. Compare pressure, speed, and motor load with previous readings to help locate the cause of the reduced flow.

Follow the specific equipment instructions for bearing service, drive inspections, fasteners, impeller condition, alignment, and controls. Inspection frequency should reflect operating hours and exposure to dust, corrosion, heat, or other process demands.

A condition assessment can determine whether repair or balancing is appropriate. Material loss, cracks, distortion, and process exposure must be evaluated before deciding whether the component can return to its intended service.

Consider replacement when damage is extensive, parts are unavailable, or the existing fan no longer matches the process. Compare the full repair cost and expected operating performance with a properly selected replacement.

Provide flow, pressure, gas composition and temperature, operating hours, and motor information. For an existing installation, include nameplate data, drawings, photographs, and details of vibration, noise, or performance concerns.

Call Industrial Air Services at (615) 641-3100 to discuss your industrial fan application. Our team can review the equipment and operating requirements to help determine the appropriate support or replacement options.