What is the difference between an axial fan and a centrifugal fan?

Axial fans and centrifugal fans are two common types of fans used in various industrial and commercial applications. The main difference between an axial fan and a centrifugal fan is their airflow direction.

Axial fans move air parallel to the axis of the fan blade rotation, creating a low-pressure zone that draws air through the fan. The airflow in axial fans is typically large but at low pressure, making them suitable for applications that require high air volumes at low or moderate pressures, such as cooling towers, electronics cooling, and HVAC systems.

Centrifugal fans, on the other hand, move air perpendicular to the axis of the fan blade rotation, creating a high-pressure zone that forces the air out away from the fan. The airflow in centrifugal fans is typically smaller but at high pressures, making them ideal for applications that require high pressures at relatively low air volumes, such as ventilation systems, blowers, and dust collection systems.

In short, axial fans are designed to move large volumes of air at low or moderate pressures, while centrifugal fans are designed to move air at high pressures and relatively low volumes. The choice between axial and centrifugal fans will depend on the specific application and performance requirements.