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Attn: Applications Engineering
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La Crosse WI54601-9985
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NECESSARY
IF MAILED
IN THE
UNITED STATES
BUSINESS REPLY MAIL
FIRST-CLASS MAIL
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Attn: Applications Engineering
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La Crosse WI54601-9985
Page 3
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Page 4
Air Conditioning Fans
One of the Equipment Series
A publication of
The Trane Company—
Worldwide Applied Systems Group
Page 5
Preface
Air Conditioning Fans
A Trane Air Conditioning Clinic
Figure 1
The Trane Company believes that it is incumbent on manufacturers to serve the
industry by regularly disseminating information gathered through laboratory
research, testing programs, and field experience.
The Trane Air Conditioning Clinic series is one means of knowledge sharing. It
is intended to acquaint a nontechnical audience with various fundamental
aspects of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning.
We’ve taken special care to make the clinic as uncommercial and
straightforward as possible. Illustrations of Trane products only appear in cases
where they help convey the message contained in the accompanying text.
This particular clinic introduces the concept of air conditioning fans.
Efficient distribution of conditioned air needed to heat, cool, and ventilate a
building requires the service of a properly selected and applied fan.
The types of fans commonly used in HVAC applications include centrifugal and
axial designs. In a centrifugal fan the airflow follows a radial path through the
fan wheel. In an axial fan the airflow passes straight through the fan, parallel
to the shaft.
Figure 2
TRG-TRC013-EN1
Page 9
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Air Conditioning Fans
period one
Figure 3
Compared to compressors, the pressures generated by these air-moving
devices within the ductwork of HVAC systems are relatively small. The
measurement of these pressures is, however, essential to the determination of
fan performance.
Measuring Pressure
atmospheric
duct
duct
pressure
pressure
One instrument that is available to measure these small pressures is a U-tube
that contains a quantity of water. One end of the tube is open to the atmosphere
(open leg), while the other end is connected to the ductwork (closed leg).
atmospheric
pressure
pressure
Figure 4
2TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 10
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Positive Duct Pressure
atmospheric
duct
duct
pressure
pressure
When the pressure within the ductwork is positive, that is, greater than
atmospheric, the water column is forced downward in the closed leg and forced
upward in the open leg. Conversely, a negative pressure within the ductwork
causes the water column to drop in the open leg and to rise in the closed leg.
atmospheric
pressure
pressure
3 inches
3 inches
[76.2 mm]
[76.2 mm]
Figure 5
In this illustration, a positive pressure in the ductwork forces the water in the
closed leg 3 in. [76.2 mm] lower than the water in the open leg. A pressure of 1
psi will support a 27.7-in. column of water. [A pressure of 1 kPa will support a
102-mm column of water.] Therefore, this length of water column is equivalent
to a pressure of 0.11 psi [758 Pa].
However, to avoid having to convert units each time a reading is taken,
inches (in.) or millimeters (mm) of water (H
pressures generated by fans. Other common expressions of this measurement
are “water gage” (wg) and “water column” (wc).
O) are often used to measure the
2
TRG-TRC013-EN3
Page 11
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Inclined Manometer
atmospheric
atmospheric
pressure
duct
duct
pressure
pressure
reservoir
reservoir
Since some of the pressures observed in air conditioning systems are very
small, the U-tube has been modified to improve the ability to read such small
differences in water levels. The modification replaces one leg of the tube with a
liquid reservoir and the other leg with an inclined tube. This instrument is called
an inclined manometer.
pressure
Figure 6
Knowing the slope of the tube to be 10:1, a pressure applied to the reservoir
causes the liquid to travel ten times further up the inclined tube to achieve the
liquid level difference between the tube and the reservoir. This allows the
pressure difference to be read with greater accuracy.
For example, a 0.5 in. [12.7 mm] H
the device causes the water to travel 5 in. [127 mm] up the inclined leg.
Other instruments commonly used to measure pressures related to fans
include the electronic manometer and mechanical gages.
O pressure applied to the reservoir end of
2
4TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 12
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Total Pressure
fan
fan
static
static
pressure
pressure
velocity
velocity
pressure
pressure
total pressure (P
total pressure (P
The total amount of pressure generated by a fan has two components: velocity
pressure and static pressure. The velocity pressure is due to the momentum
of the air as it moves axially through the duct, while the static pressure is due
to the perpendicular outward “push” of the air against the duct walls.
The total pressure is the sum of the velocity pressure and the static pressure.
) = static pressure (P
) = static pressure (P
t
t
) + velocity pressure (PP
) + velocity pressure (
s
s
)
)
v
v
Figure 7
Velocity Pressure vs. Static Pressure
vane
fan
fan
vane
damper
damper
Figure 8
For example, assume a fan is attached to a straight piece of duct that has a
damper at the open end. To observe air movement, a hinged vane is suspended
from the top of the duct.
TRG-TRC013-EN5
Page 13
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Velocity Pressure vs. Static Pressure
damper
damper
fully open
fully open
Figure 9
With the fan operating and the damper fully open, air moves through the duct
unimpeded. The impact of the moving air causes the vane to swing in the
direction of airflow. The pressure exerted on the vane is due to the velocity of
the air moving through the duct, not the static pressure exerted on the walls of
the duct.
At this point the outward, or static, pressure exerted on the duct walls is
negligible. Nearly all of the usable fan energy is being converted to velocity
pressure.
Velocity Pressure vs. Static Pressure
damper
damper
partially open
partially open
Figure 10
Partially closing the damper increases resistance to airflow. The fan generates
enough pressure to overcome this resistance (static pressure loss), but this
occurs at the expense of velocity pressure. Part of the fan’s usable energy is
now being devoted to generating enough static pressure to overcome the
resistance of the damper.
6TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 14
period one
Fan Performance
notes
This build-up of static pressure results in reduced air velocity (velocity pressure)
and therefore a reduction in the airflow delivered by the fan.
Notice that the hinged vane has moved toward a more vertical position. The
reduced velocity pressure on the face of the vane causes it to move to a more
neutral position.
Velocity Pressure vs. Static Pressure
damper
damper
fully closed
fully closed
Figure 11
Finally, when the damper is closed fully, airflow stops and no velocity pressure
exists in the ductwork. All of the usable fan energy is now being converted to
static pressure. The pressure on the back side of the vane equals the pressure
on the face of the vane and it assumes the neutral (vertical) position.
Measuring Static Pressure
inclined
inclined
manometer
manometer
Figure 12
Both velocity and static pressures can be determined using the inclined
manometer. Static pressure is measured directly by inserting a probe through
the duct wall with its open end perpendicular to air movement. In this position
only the outward, or static, pressure within the duct is sensed.
TRG-TRC013-EN7
Page 15
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Measuring Total Pressure
inclined
inclined
manometer
manometer
Figure 13
Another probe can be placed in the duct with its open end facing into the air
stream. This probe senses total pressure—the combination of velocity pressure
plus static pressure.
Therefore, static pressure can be read directly, while velocity pressure is
derived by subtracting the static pressure from the total pressure.
An alternate method would be to attach the open end of this manometer to the
duct system, using it to measure static pressure. With one end measuring total
pressure and the other end measuring static pressure, the difference read on
the manometer scale would be equal to the velocity pressure.
8TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 16
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Fan Performance Test
throttling
throttling
device
fan
fan
manometer
air
straightener
air
straightener
manometer
dynamometer
dynamometer
The characteristics of a fan’s performance under various duct pressure
conditions is tested by an apparatus similar to the one shown here.
The fan is connected to a long piece of straight duct with a throttling device at
the end. The throttling device is used to change the air resistance of the duct.
The fan is operated at a single speed and the power applied to the fan shaft is
measured by a device called a dynamometer. As discussed on the previous
slide, a single manometer is used to measure the velocity pressure—the
difference between the total and static pressures.
device
Figure 14
The test is first conducted with the throttling device removed. This is called
wide-openairflow. With no resistance to airflow, the pressure generated by
the fan is velocity pressure only—the static pressure is negligible.
The throttling device is then put in place and progressively moved toward the
closed position. The pressures are recorded at each throttling device position.
When the throttling device is fully closed, only static pressure is being
generated by the fan because there is no airflow. This point is called the
blocked-tight static pressure.
TRG-TRC013-EN9
Page 17
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Determining Fan Airflow
Velocity Pressure (Pv) = Pt – P
Velocity (V) = Constant ×
√
s
P
v
ρ
Airflow = Velocity × Fan Outlet Area
Figure 15
Next, the measured velocity pressure is used to calculate the airflow delivered
by the fan. The manometer measures the velocity pressure (P
static pressure (P
calculated by dividing velocity pressure (P
square root of the quotient, and multiplying by a constant. Finally, the fan
airflow is determined by multiplying the air velocity (V) by the outlet area (A) of
the fan.
For example, assume the test readings for a specific throttling-device position
are as follows:
■ Total pressure (P
■ Static pressure (P
■ Velocity pressure (P
Pa]
■ Fan outlet area (A) = 1.28 ft
■ Fan speed = 1,100 rpm (revolutions per minute)
■ Air density (ρ) at standard air conditions = 0.0749 lb/ft
) from total pressure (Pt). Next, the air velocity (V) can be
s
) = 2.45 in. H2O [62.2 mm H2O or 610 Pa]
t
) = 2.0 in. H2O [50.8 mm H2O or 491 Pa]
s
) = Pt – Ps = 2.45 – 2.0 = 0.45 in. H2O [11.4 mm H2O or 119
v
2
[0.12 m2]
) by the air density (ρ), taking the
v
) by subtracting
v
3
[1.204 kg/m3]
Proceeding with the calculations,
P
V1,096
AirflowV A×2,686 1.28×3,438 cfm (ft
V1.414
AirflowV A×14.06 0.12×1.69 m
It is determined that at this point, the fan, operating at 1,100 rpm, is delivering
3,438 cfm [1.69 m
10TRG-TRC013-EN
3
v
------1,096
ρ
P
v
------1.414
ρ
/s] against 2 in. H2O [491 Pa] of static pressure.
0.45
----------------- -2,686 fpm (ft/min)===
0.0749
119
-------------- -14.06 m/s===
1.204
3
/s===
3
/min)===
Page 18
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Plotting Fan Performance Points
2.0 in. H
O
2.0 in. H
O
2
2
[491 Pa]
[491 Pa]
static pressure
static pressure
3,438 cfm
3,438 cfm
3
3
[1.69 m
/s]
[1.69 m
/s]
airflow
airflow
Fan Performance Curves
This point can then be plotted on a chart that has static pressure on the vertical
axis and airflow on the horizontal axis.
Figure 16
Plotting Fan Performance Points
static pressure
static pressure
airflow
airflow
Additional data from the fan tests establish other static pressure and
corresponding airflow performance points for a given rotational speed
(revolutions per minute or rpm).
Figure 17
TRG-TRC013-EN11
Page 19
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Fan Performance Curve
blocked-tight
blocked-tight
static pressure
static pressure
1
1
,
,
1
1
0
0
0
0
r
r
p
p
m
static pressure
static pressure
airflow
airflow
When a series of points is plotted, a curve can be drawn. The resulting curve
graphically illustrates the performance of this fan when it is operated at a
constant speed.
m
wide-open
wide-open
airflow
airflow
Figure 18
Notice that the curve extends from blocked-tight static pressure, with a
corresponding zero airflow, to wide-open airflow, with a corresponding zero
static pressure.
12TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 20
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Fan Speed
f
f
a
a
n
n
s
s
p
p
e
e
e
e
d
d
1
static pressure
static pressure
7
00 r
00
7
r
p
pm
m
5
5
0
0
0
0
r
r
p
p
airflow
airflow
9
9
m
m
Next, the fan laws are used to calculate the performance characteristics of this
same fan at other rotational speeds. The subscript
performance conditions; the subscript
conditions.
1
,
,
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
r
r
0
r
r
p
p
m
p
p
m
m
2
m
refers to the tested
1
refers to the calculated performance
Figure 19
Airflow
-----------------------
Airflow
Static Pressure
-------------------------------------------- -
Static Pressure
Input Power
------------------------------------ -
Input Power
Fan Speed
2
--------------------------------
=
Fan Speed
1
2
1
2
1
Fan Speed
2
--------------------------------
=
Fan Speed
1
Fan Speed
--------------------------------
=
Fan Speed
2
2
1
3
2
1
The result is a family of curves that represents the specific fan’s airflow capacity
at various speeds and static pressures.
TRG-TRC013-EN13
Page 21
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Input Power
0.5 hp
0.5 hp
[0.37 kW]
[0.37 kW]
static pressure
static pressure
1 hp
1 hp
[0.75 kW]
[0.75 kW]
Finally, using the measurements from the dynamometer and the fan laws,
curves can be calculated and plotted to represent the fan’s power consumption
at each operating condition.
2 hp
2 hp
[1.5 kW]
[1.5 kW]
airflow
airflow
3 hp
3 hp
[2.2 kW]
[2.2 kW]
input power
input power
Figure 20
Fan Surge
high
high
pressure
fan
fan
low
low
pressure
pressure
When most fans approach the blocked-tight static-pressure condition,
instability is encountered. This condition is known as surge.
Surge occurs when the quantity of air being moved by the fan falls below the
amount necessary to sustain the existing static-pressure difference between the
inlet and outlet sides of the fan. When this occurs, the pressurized air flows
backward through the fan wheel, instantaneously reducing the pressure at the
fan outlet. This surge of air enables the fan to re-establish the proper direction
of airflow. The resulting fluctuation in airflow and static pressure within the fan
and ductwork can result in excessive noise, vibration, and possibly damage to
the fan.
pressure
Figure 21
14TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 22
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Fan Surge Line
surge
surge
surge
line
line
line
static pressure
static pressure
airflow
airflow
A surge line is established during the fan test procedure to indicate the area on
a fan performance curve where surge occurs. As long as the fan’s operating
point falls to the right of this line, the fan will operate in a stable manner. If the
fan is operated at a point that falls to the left of this line, the fan will surge.
Figure 22
Percent of Wide-Open Airflow
surge
surge
surge
static pressure
static pressure
Finally, to serve as a guide for selection, curves are established to indicate the
percentage of wide-open airflow being delivered by the fan at various operating
points.
This completes the typical fan performance curve. It shows the relationship
between pressure and airflow, and can be used to graphically represent the
fan’s interaction with the system.
line
line
line
50%
50%
airflow
airflow
60%
60%
% wide-open
% wide-open
% wide-open
airflow
airflow
airflow
70%
70%
80%
80%
90%
90%
100%
100%
Figure 23
TRG-TRC013-EN15
Page 23
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Tabular Performance Data
Figure 24
Fan manufacturers may present their performance data in graphical and/or
tabular form. Similar to using the fan curve, by knowing the desired airflow and
pressure-producing capability of the fan, the table can be used to determine the
fan’s speed and input power requirement.
For example, assume an application requires 6,800 cfm [3,210 L/s] at a static
pressure of 2.5 in. H
requires a rotational speed of 821 rpm and 4.25 hp [3.17 kW] of power to meet
the requirements.
O [622.75 Pa]. Using this sample table, this particular fan
2
16TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 24
notes
period one
Fan Performance
System Resistance
return duct
return duct
supply duct
fan
fan
damper
damper
cooling
cooling
coil
coil
System Resistance Curve
Now that a typical fan performance curve has been developed, let’s see how the
fan will perform within a system.
supply duct
return air grille
return air grille
supply
supply
diffuser
diffuser
Figure 25
With each airflow, an air distribution system imposes a certain resistance to the
passage of air. The resistance is the sum of all of the pressure losses
experienced as air passes through the ductwork, supply air diffusers, return air
grilles, dampers, filters, coils, etc. This is the resistance, or static-pressure loss,
that the fan must overcome to move a given quantity of air through the system.
System Resistance
2.0 in. H
O
2.0 in. H
O
2
2
[491 Pa]
[491 Pa]
static pressure
static pressure
3,500 cfm
3,500 cfm
3
3
[1.65 m
/s]
[1.65 m
/s]
airflow
airflow
Assume that a system is designed to deliver 3,500 cfm [1.65 m
overcome the system pressure losses, the fan must generate 2.0 in. H
[491 Pa] of static pressure.
Figure 26
3
/s], and that to
O
2
To illustrate how a system resistance curve is developed, this point is plotted on
the same chart used to develop the fan curve.
TRG-TRC013-EN17
Page 25
notes
period one
Fan Performance
System Resistance Curve
2
Airflow
Static Pressure
Static Pressure
Assuming the system does not change, the static-pressure loss due to the
system varies with the square of the airflow. Other points on the system
resistance curve are determined by using the following fan law equation:
Static Pressure
-------------------------------------------- -
Static Pressure
2
1
Airflow
Airflow
Airflow
Airflow
2
-----------------------
=
Airflow
1
2
1
2
2
2
1
1
Figure 27
2
For example, when the same system is delivering 2,000 cfm [0.94 m
2
O [159 Pa].
2
2
static-pressure loss due to the system pressure is 0.65 in. H
2,000 cfm
Static Pressure
Static Pressure
2.0 in. H2O
2
491 Pa
2
-------------------------- -
×0.65 in. H2O==
3,500 cfm
×159 Pa==
3
0.94 m
-------------------------- -
3
1.65 m
/s
/s
3
/s], the
18TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 26
notes
period one
Fan Performance
System Resistance Curve
2.0 in. H
O
2.0 in. H
O
2
2
[491 Pa]
[491 Pa]
static pressure
static pressure
0.65 in. H
0.65 in. H
[159 Pa]
[159 Pa]
O
O
2
2
system
system
system
resistance
resistance
resistance
curve
curve
curve
3
3
/s]
/s]
airflow
airflow
3,500 cfm
3,500 cfm
3
3
[1.65 m
/s]
[1.65 m
/s]
Figure 28
2,000 cfm
2,000 cfm
[0.94 m
[0.94 m
By plotting several such points, a curve can be established. This system
resistance curve represents the static pressure that the fan must generate, at
various airflows, to overcome the resistance—or static-pressure loss—within
this particular system.
Fan – System Interaction
design system
design system
design system
resistance curve
resistance curve
resistance curve
surge
surge
surge
region
region
region
static pressure
static pressure
airflow
airflow
$
Figure 29
Fan – System Interaction
By superimposing the system resistance curve on a fan performance curve, the
intersection predicts the airflow and static pressure at which the fan and system
will balance—design operating point A.
If the installed system resistance is different from that assumed during the
design process, the fan-and-system balance point—the operating point—will
not be as intended. This means that the fan and system will balance at a point
that has a higher or lower airflow, static pressure, and input power.
TRG-TRC013-EN19
Page 27
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Higher System Resistance
actual system
actual system
actual system
resistance curve
resistance curve
resistance curve
&
surge
surge
surge
region
region
region
static pressure
static pressure
%
airflow
airflow
n
$
new
ew
fan
f
d
d
an
s
e
e
s
s
i
i
g
g
s
p
pee
n
n
f
eed
f
a
a
n
n
d
s
s
p
pe
e
e
e
d
d
Figure 30
Consider a case where the air resistance through the system is greater than
predicted. Instead of the design operating point A, the actual system resistance
curve intersects the fan performance curve at B, delivering a lower airflow than
intended. The solution to this problem is to either improve the system design or
increase the fan speed. At the higher speed, the system resistance and fan
performance curves intersect at C to deliver the design airflow. The fan must
generate more static pressure to deliver the intended airflow, requiring more
power than expected.
Lower System Resistance
actual system
actual system
actual system
resistance curve
resistance curve
resistance curve
surge
surge
surge
region
region
region
static pressure
static pressure
airflow
airflow
$
'
d
e
e
s
s
i
i
g
g
n
n
ne
new
w
f
f
a
a
n
n
s
s
p
p
e
e
f
f
a
an
e
e
n
d
dd
s
s
p
p
e
e
e
e
d
d
Figure 31
(
On the other hand, if the system resistance is less than estimated, the actual
system resistance curve falls to the right of the estimated curve.
Instead of operating at the design operating point A, the actual system
resistance curve intersects the fan performance curve at D, delivering a higher
airflow than intended.
20TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 28
period one
Fan Performance
notes
Reducing the fan speed causes the system resistance and fan performance
curves to intersect at E. The fan delivers the design airflow at a lower static
pressure, with less power required.
In these examples, it was possible to compensate for the inaccuracies in
estimated system resistance through fan speed adjustment. However, the
actual fan operating points fell at conditions other than intended. Therefore, it
may be wise to re-evaluate the fan selection. Possibly another fan size would
perform more efficiently at the revised system conditions.
Static Efficiency
Power Out
Static Efficiency (SE)
=
Power In
Airflow × Static Pressure
SE
=
SE
Constant × Input Power
Figure 32
A term commonly used to express the efficiency of a fan is static efficiency.
Static efficiency expresses the percentage of input power that is realized as
useful work in terms of static pressure.
The equation used to calculate static efficiency is:
Let’s assume that the fan from the previous example, delivering 3,500 cfm
[1.65 m
input power. At these conditions, the fan’s static efficiency would be:
3
/s] at 2.0 in. H2O [491 Pa] of static pressure, requires 2.0 hp [1.5 kW] of
In a constant-volume system, where the fan is always delivering the same
airflow, the fan is generally selected to balance the airflow and static-pressure
requirements at a point on the fan curve that permits a certain margin of safety
before surge occurs.
Figure 34
As the coil and filters become dirty, the system resistance increases, causing
the system resistance curve to shift to the left. In response, the operating point
follows the intersection of the system resistance and fan performance curves to
a higher static-pressure condition. This margin of safety allows a certain
increase in system static pressure before the fan’s operating point reaches the
surge region. Of course, as the fan is called upon to generate more static
pressure to overcome this increased system resistance, its airflow is reduced
accordingly.
TRG-TRC013-EN23
Page 31
notes
period one
Fan Performance
Variable-Pitch Vaneaxial Fan
variable-pitch
variable-pitch
blades
blades
Figure 35
The fan performance curves discussed so far are typical of both the centrifugal
and fixed-pitch vaneaxial fans. To complete the discussion, the fan performance
curves of the variable-pitch vaneaxial (VPVA) fan will be reviewed.
While this type of fan operates at a constant speed, the pitch (angle) of its
blades can be adjusted to match the airflow and pressure requirements of the
system.
24TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 32
notes
period one
Fan Performance
surge region
surge region
r
r
we
we
o
o
p
p
t
t
u
u
p
p
n
i
n
i
85%
85%
total pressure
total pressure
80%
80%
70%
15º
15º
20º
20º
25º
25º
70%
30º
30º
airflow
airflow
50%
50%
35º
35º
40º
40º
45º
45º
ade
ade
bl
bl
Unlike the previous fan performance curves, those of the VPVA fan are plotted
on the basis of airflow, at various blade pitches, versus total pressure (static
pressure plus velocity pressure). This type of fan generates high air velocities
and, therefore, high velocity pressures. To fully evaluate its performance, total
pressure is used to demonstrate both the static and velocity pressure
components.
55º
55º
50º
50º
e)
e)
gl
ngl
an
a
(
(
h
h
c
c
t
t
i
pi
p
Figure 36
The dashed line defines the upper limit of airflow and total pressure, above
which a surge, or turbulent, condition is encountered. In addition, curves are
plotted that define fan total efficiency at various airflows, total pressures, and
blade positions.
Fan total efficiency expresses the percentage of input power that is realized
as useful work in terms of total pressure. It is calculated by substituting total
pressure for static pressure in the static efficiency equation.
Similar to both the centrifugal and fixed-pitch vaneaxial fans, the intersection of
the system resistance curve and the blade pitch curve establishes the airflow
and total pressure at which this fan and this system will balance.
While the system design conditions are typically stated in terms of static
pressure, the VPVA fan manufacturer provides conversion factors that enable
the system designer to establish the fan – system balance point in terms of total
pressure.
26TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 34
notes
period two
Fan Types
Air Conditioning Fans
period two
Figure 38
The most common types of fans used in air conditioning applications are the
centrifugal and axial designs.
Centrifugal Fan
Figure 39
In a centrifugal fan the airflow enters the center of the fan from the side and
follows a radial path through the fan wheel. There are three principal types of
centrifugal fans, each distinguished by the type of fan wheel used: forward
curved (FC), backward inclined (BI), and airfoil (AF).
TRG-TRC013-EN27
Page 35
notes
period two
Fan Types
Forward Curved Fan
Figure 40
Forward Curved (FC) Fans
The first of these centrifugal fan wheels to be considered has blades that are
curved in the direction of wheel rotation. These are called forward curved, or
FC, fans.
FC fans are operated at relatively low speeds and are used to deliver large
volumes of air against relatively low static pressures. The inherently light
construction of the forward curved fan wheel does not permit this wheel to be
operated at the speeds needed to generate high static pressures.
Forward Curved Fan
V
V
S
S
Figure 41
The curved shape of the FC blade imparts a forward motion to the air as it
leaves the blade tip. This, together with the speed of wheel rotation (S), causes
the air to leave at a relatively high velocity (V).
28TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 36
period two
Fan Types
notes
The static pressure produced by a fan is a function of the forward motion of the
air at the blade tip. The FC fan can perform, within its airflow and static pressure
range, at lower rotational speeds than other types of fans.
Forward Curved Fan
30%
30%
application
application
range
static pressure
static pressure
The typical application range of this type of fan is from 30 to 80 percent
wide-open airflow. Selecting an operating point that places the airflow below
approximately 30 percent wide open may place the fan in an area of instability.
Similarly, an operating point that places the airflow beyond 80 percent wide
open typically produces noise and inefficiency.
range
airflow
airflow
static efficiency
static efficiency
50 to 65%
50 to 65%
80%
80%
Figure 42
The maximum static efficiency of the FC fan is from approximately 50 to
65 percent and occurs just to the right of the maximum static-pressure point on
the fan performance curve.
TRG-TRC013-EN29
Page 37
period two
Fan Types
notes
surge
surge
surge
line
line
line
2 hp
static pressure
static pressure
1 hp
1 hp
[0.75 kW]
[0.75 kW]
2 hp
[1.5 kW]
[1.5 kW]
airflow
airflow
3 hp
3 hp
[2.2 kW]
[2.2 kW]
$
actual system
actual system
actual system
resistance curve
resistance curve
resistance curve
%
Figure 43
Notice how the fan input-power lines cross the FC fan performance curves. If
the system resistance were to drop, the actual system resistance curve would
also drop, moving the operating point (A) to a higher airflow (B). At the same
time, the fan’s input power requirement would also rise, possibly overloading
the motor. Consequently, the FC fan is referred to as an “overloading” type of
fan.
As with all fan types, the FC fan can exhibit unstable operation, or surge.
However, since FC fans are used typically in low speed and low static-pressure
applications, many small FC fans can operate in surge without noticeable noise
and vibration.
Backward Inclined Fan
Figure 44
Backward Inclined (BI) Fans
The second centrifugal fan design has blades that are slanted away from the
direction of wheel rotation. These backward inclined, or BI, fans operate at
higher speeds than FC fans.
30TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 38
notes
period two
Fan Types
Backward Inclined Fan
V
V
S
S
Figure 45
The angle of the backward inclined blade causes the air leaving the wheel to
bend back against the direction of rotation. However, the speed of wheel
rotation (S) causes the air to assume a velocity (V) in the direction shown.
FC vs. BI Fans
V
V
V
S
S
forward curved
Comparing the performance of FC and BI fans, for a given wheel speed (S) the
air velocity (V) off the FC wheel is substantially greater than that off a
comparable BI wheel. Therefore, when a BI fan is selected to handle the same
airflow, it must be operated at approximately twice the speed of a similarly
selected FC fan. In spite of this, the input power requirement of the BI fan is
less, often making it a more efficient selection.
This higher speed requires that BI fans be built with a larger shaft and bearing,
and it places more importance on proper balance. Their rugged construction
makes them suitable for moving large volumes of air in higher static-pressure
applications.
backward inclined
V
S
S
Figure 46
TRG-TRC013-EN31
Page 39
notes
period two
Fan Types
Backward Inclined Fan
40%
40%
application
application
range
static pressure
static pressure
range
airflow
airflow
The application range of the BI fan is from approximately 40 to 85 percent
wide-open airflow. As before, an operating point below 40 percent wide open
may place the fan in surge and an operating point above 85 percent wide open
typically produces noise and inefficiency. The maximum static efficiency of the
BI fan is from approximately 65 to 75 percent and occurs at approximately
50 percent wide-open airflow.
static efficiency
static efficiency
65 to 75%
65 to 75%
85%
85%
Figure 47
Since the magnitude of surge is related to generated pressure, the surge
characteristic exhibited by the BI fan is greater than that of the FC fan. This is
primarily due to BI fans being used in higher static-pressure applications.
surge
surge
7.5 hp
7.5 hp
[5.6 kW]
[5.6 kW]
5 hp
5 hp
[3.7 kW]
[3.7 kW]
static pressure
static pressure
10 hp
10 hp
[7.5 kW]
[7.5 kW]
surge
line
line
line
airflow
airflow
actual system
actual system
actual system
resistance curve
resistance curve
$
resistance curve
%
Figure 48
Unlike the FC fan, the input power lines of a BI fan are, for the most part, nearly
parallel to the fan performance curves. If the system resistance were to drop,
the actual system resistance curve would also drop, moving the operating point
(A) to a higher airflow (B). The fan input power requirement would change only
slightly. For this reason, BI fans are referred to as “nonoverloading” type fans.
32TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 40
notes
period two
Fan Types
Backward Curved Fan
V
V
S
S
backward inclined
A variation of this type of fan, called the backward curved (BC) fan, uses a
slight curve in the fan blades, away from the direction of rotation. The
performance characteristics of the BC fan are similar to those of the BI fan.
backward curved
V
V
S
S
Figure 49
Airfoil Fan
Figure 50
Airfoil (AF) Fans
A refinement of the BI fan changes the shape of the blade from a flat plate to
that of an airfoil, similar to an airplane wing. The airfoil blade induces a
smooth airflow across the blade surface, reducing turbulence and noise within
the wheel. This results in increased static efficiency and reduced overall sound
levels.
Airfoil (AF) fans exhibit performance characteristics that are essentially the
same as those of the flat-bladed BI fan.
TRG-TRC013-EN33
Page 41
notes
period two
Fan Types
Airfoil Fan
50%
50%
static efficiency
static efficiency
80 to 86%
80 to 86%
85%
application
static pressure
static pressure
The application range of the airfoil fan is from approximately 50 to 85 percent
wide-open airflow. This is a narrower application range than either the FC or BI
fan. The reason is that the airfoil fan surges at a greater percentage of
wide-open airflow, placing the surge line farther to the right on the fan curve.
application
range
range
airflow
airflow
85%
Figure 51
Static efficiencies as high as 86 percent can be achieved with airfoil fans.
Because surge occurs at a higher airflow, the magnitude of the surge
characteristics of the airfoil fan is greater than that of the FC and flat-bladed BI
fans.
Plug (or Plenum) Fan
plenum
plenum
A variation of the airfoil fan is a plug (or plenum) fan. This type of fan consists
of an unhoused fan wheel with airfoil fan blades and an inlet cone. The fan
wheel pressurizes the plenum surrounding the fan, allowing the air to discharge
in multiple directions. This fan can save space by eliminating turns in the
ductwork and allowing multiple discharge ducts in different directions.
inlet cone
inlet cone
fan wheel
fan wheel
Figure 52
34TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 42
notes
period two
Fan Types
Vaneaxial Fan
straightening vanes
straightening vanes
fan wheel or impeller
fan wheel or impeller
Figure 53
Vaneaxial Fans
In an axial fan, the airflow passes straight through the fan, parallel to the shaft.
There are three common axial fan types: propeller, tubeaxial, and vaneaxial.
Propeller fans are well suited for high volumes of air, but have little or no
static-pressure generating capability.
Tubeaxial and vaneaxial fans are simply propeller fans mounted in a cylinder.
They are similar except for the vane-type straighteners used in the vaneaxial
design. Since a propeller fan inherently produces a spiral air stream, these
vanes are installed at the leaving side of the fan to remove much of the swirl
from the air and straighten the airflow path. These vanes improve efficiency,
and reduce turbulence and the resulting sound generated in the downstream
ductwork. Because a vaneaxial fan is more efficient than a tubeaxial fan, it can
handle larger volumes of air at higher pressures.
TRG-TRC013-EN35
Page 43
notes
period two
Fan Types
Vaneaxial Fan
60%
60%
static efficiency
static efficiency
70 to 80%
70 to 80%
application
airflow
airflow
application
range
range
90%
90%
Figure 54
static pressure
static pressure
The application range of the vaneaxial fan is from approximately 60 to
90 percent wide-open airflow. Similar to the BI and AF fans, the input power
lines are essentially parallel to the fan performance curves, and therefore the
vaneaxial fan is considered a nonoverloading type of fan.
Static efficiencies from 70 to 80 percent can be achieved with vaneaxial fans.
The airflow and static-pressure performance range is similar to that of the BI
and AF fans.
Compared to centrifugal fans, vaneaxial fans typically have lower lowfrequency sound levels and higher high-frequency sound levels, making them
an attractive alternative for sound-sensitive applications.
Variable-Pitch Vaneaxial Fan
variable-pitch
variable-pitch
blades
blades
Figure 55
The variable-pitch vaneaxial (VPVA) fan is similar in construction to the
fixed-pitch vaneaxial fan. The principal difference is that the VPVA fan is a
constant-speed fan with variable-pitch fan blades.
36TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 44
notes
period two
Fan Types
surge region
surge region
r
r
e
e
w
w
o
o
p
p
t
t
u
u
p
p
n
i
n
i
85%
85%
total pressure
total pressure
80%
80%
70%
15º
15º
20º
20º
25º
25º
70%
30º
30º
airflow
airflow
50%
50%
35º
35º
40º
40º
45º
45º
ade
ade
bl
bl
The VPVA fan is selected so that the operating point is within the most efficient
area of the performance curves. Total efficiencies from 60 to 84 percent are
possible with the VPVA fan. Again, total efficiency is calculated by substituting
total pressure for static pressure in the static efficiency equation.
55º
55º
50º
50º
e)
e)
gl
ngl
an
a
(
(
h
h
c
c
t
t
i
pi
p
Figure 56
Like the BI, AF, and fixed-pitch vaneaxial fans, the input power lines are
essentially parallel to the blade pitch curves. Therefore, the VPVA fan is a
nonoverloading type of fan.
TRG-TRC013-EN37
Page 45
notes
period two
Fan Types
Fan Selection
▲ Forward curved (FC)
◆ Lower airflow, lower static pressure, lower first cost
The selection of the type of fan to be used in a particular application is based on
the system size and space availability.
The forward curved fan is best applied in small systems requiring 20,000 cfm
3
[9.4 m
also the least costly.
On the other hand, systems requiring in excess of 20,000 cfm [9.4 m
3in. H
backward inclined or airfoil fans. With larger fan sizes and larger motors, the
higher fan efficiencies can result in significant energy savings.
/s] or less and static pressures of 4 in. H2O [996 Pa] or less. The FC fan is
3
/s] and
O [747 Pa] of static pressure are usually best served by the more efficient
2
When space is a prime consideration, the vaneaxial fan may be the best
solution. Straight-through airflow permits this fan to be installed in limited
space.
Finally, the VPVA fan is generally applied in large, built-up systems requiring
airflows in excess of 50,000 cfm [23.6 m
3
/s] and greater than 3 in. H2O [747 Pa]
of total pressure.
38TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 46
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
Air Conditioning Fans
period three
Figure 58
The previous discussions assumed that the fan would perform at a single
operating point, located by the intersection of the system resistance and fan
performance curves, in a constant-volume system. This type of system
provides a constant volume of variable-temperature air to control the
environment of a building.
A variable-air-volume (VAV) system, however, controls the environment by
varying the volume of constant-temperature air. This places additional
demands on fan performance and brings up the subject of fan capacity control.
VAV System
supply
supply
fan
fan
VAV
VAV
box
box
thermostat
thermostat
Figure 59
In a VAV system, the quantity of air being delivered to each space is controlled
by a modulating device (a blade damper or an air valve) that is contained within
a VAV terminal unit (box). This device is controlled by a thermostat to provide
only the quantity of conditioned air needed to balance the space load. As the
device modulates, the overall system resistance changes.
TRG-TRC013-EN39
Page 47
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
VAV System
surge
surge
surge
region
region
region
static pressure
static pressure
airflow
airflow
This modulation causes the actual system resistance curve to shift.
actual system
actual system
actual system
resistance curve
resistance curve
resistance curve
design system
design system
design system
resistance curve
resistance curve
resistance curve
modulation
modulation
range
range
Figure 60
In a VAV system, therefore, the fan no longer operates at a single point on its
performance curve but must operate over a range of such points.
"Riding the Fan Curve"
surge
static pressure
static pressure
increase
increase
static pressure
static pressure
“Riding the Fan Curve”
The simplest form of fan capacity control is called “riding the fan curve.” This
method involves no direct form of control but simply allows the fan to react to
the change in system static pressure.
During operation, a VAV system experiences changes in resistance as the VAV
terminal units modulate closed. This increases the system resistance, creating a
new actual system resistance curve. In response, the operating point of the
constant-speed fan simply “rides up” on its performance curve from the design
operating point A to balance the new system condition. This new operating
point B is at a lower airflow and a higher static pressure.
surge
surge
line
line
line
%
actual system
actual system
actual system
resistance curve
resistance curve
resistance curve
airflow
airflow
design system
design system
design system
resistance curve
resistance curve
resistance curve
$
airflow
airflow
reduction
reduction
Figure 61
40TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 48
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
Forward Curved Centrifugal Fan
input power
input power
%
$
static pressure
static pressure
airflow
airflow
This method of fan modulation can be used with any type of fan. It is most
effective, however, when applied to FC fans. The configuration of the input
power curves of the FC fan are such that its power requirement drops as the fan
operating point moves upward along the constant-speed performance curve.
Recall that the input power curves of the BI, AF, and vaneaxial fans closely
parallel the fan performance curves. Therefore, the power reduction of these
types of nonoverloading fans would not be as significant when “riding the fan
curve.”
Figure 62
Additionally, when the BI and AF fans surge, undesirable noise and vibration
result. Care must be taken to establish a modulating range that does not take
these fans into the surge area. The FC fan, on the other hand, may be operated
in the surge area, provided the operating point enters the surge area at a
relatively low static pressure.
A satisfactory modulation range may be achieved by selecting a fan that is two
to three sizes (fan wheel diameter) smaller than one that would be selected for
a constant-volume system. This places the design operating point farther to the
right on the performance curve.
Finally, “riding the fan curve” is used most successfully when the system’s
airflow modulation range is small. If the fan is required to modulate over a wide
range of airflows, the increased static pressure experienced at reduced airflow
may overpressurize the VAV terminals, resulting in greater-than-desired space
airflow and noise problems.
TRG-TRC013-EN41
Page 49
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
Fan Control Loop
static-pressure
static-pressure
sensor
supply
supply
fan
fan
Because of this issue, and since many VAV systems are large with high static
pressures, some form of system static-pressure control is generally used.
A VAV system’s static-pressure requirement consists of a fixed component and
a variable component. The system requires a minimum amount of static
pressure to properly operate the VAV modulation devices and diffusers. This is
considered the fixed component. The second, variable component is the
amount of static pressure required to overcome the system pressure losses due
to the ducts, fittings, dampers, coils, filters, etc. at various airflows. Recall from
the discussion of the system resistance curve that these losses vary with
changes to the system airflow.
sensor
controller
controller
Figure 63
To ensure adequate static pressure at the VAV terminal units, a simple control
loop is used. First, the static pressure is sensed from a location in the system.
Next, a controller compares this static-pressure reading to the system’s set
point. Finally, the fan capacity is varied to deliver the required airflow at a static
pressure that maintains this set point at the location of the system’s sensor.
42TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 50
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
VAV System Modulation Curve
design system
design system
resistance curve
%
VAV system
static pressure
static pressure
sensor
sensor
set point
set point
VAV system
modulation curve
modulation curve
&
airflow
airflow
An exaggerated example is used to illustrate this system operation. Assume
that the load on the system decreases, causing all or some of the VAV terminal
units to modulate closed. This causes the system resistance curve to shift
upwards. In response, the fan begins to “ride up” its constant-speed
performance curve toward B, from the design operating point A, trying to
balance with this new system resistance curve. As a result, the fan delivers a
lower airflow at a higher static pressure. The system static-pressure controller
senses this higher static pressure and sends a signal to the supply fan to reduce
its capacity. Modulating the fan capacity results in a new fan – system balance
point C, bringing the system static pressure down to the sensor’s set point.
resistance curve
$
Figure 64
This action results in the fan unloading along a curve, the VAV system
modulation curve. This curve represents the fan modulation needed to
balance the static pressure required to offset these variable system losses
(demand) with that produced by the fan (supply). The equation used to
calculate the VAV system modulation curve is:
Static Pressure (SP)
Airflow
-----------------------
Airflow
d
2
SPdSP
–()×SPc+=
c
where,
■ Static Pressure and Airflow are points along the VAV system modulation
curve
■ Static Pressure
■ Static Pressure
TRG-TRC013-EN43
and Airflowd describe the design operating point
d
is the system static-pressure control set point
c
Page 51
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
Methods of Fan Capacity Control
▲ Discharge dampers
▲ Inlet vanes
▲ Fan-speed control
▲ Variable-pitch blade control
Figure 65
There are four methods used to actively control the capacity of a fan. They are
discharge dampers, inlet vanes, fan-speed control, and variable-pitch blade
control.
Discharge Dampers
supply
supply
fan
fan
discharge
discharge
dampers
dampers
Figure 66
Discharge Dampers
The first method to be discussed is the use of discharge dampers. Discharge
dampers match the airflow and static pressure supplied by the fan with the
airflow and static pressure required by the system. They accomplish this by
adding a static-pressure loss to the system just downstream of the fan.
44TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 52
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
Discharge Dampers
surge
surge
discharge
discharge
damper
damper
SP loss
SP loss
VAV system
VAV system
static pressure
static pressure
modulation
modulation
curve
sensor
sensor
set point
set point
As the VAV terminal units modulate shut, the system resistance curve shifts
upward. The fan begins to “ride up” its constant-speed performance curve
toward B, from the design operating point A, trying to balance with this new
system resistance curve. As a result, the fan delivers a lower airflow at a higher
static pressure.
curve
surge
line
line
line
&
'
airflow
airflow
design system
design system
resistance curve
%
resistance curve
$
Figure 67
The system static-pressure controller senses this higher static pressure and
sends a signal to the discharge dampers, instructing them to begin closing. This
results in a build-up of static pressure at the fan outlet and causes the fan to
“ride up” further on its performance curve until it reaches its new operating
point C at a higher static pressure and lower airflow. The system balances at D
along the desired VAV system modulation curve, bringing the system static
pressure (downstream of the discharge damper) down to its set point.
This method of control is essentially the same as “riding the fan curve,” except
that the static-pressure drop takes place across the discharge damper instead of
across the VAV terminal units. While discharge dampers can be used with all
types of centrifugal fans, they are most effectively used with the FC fan for the
same reason mentioned with “riding the fan curve.” Other methods of supply
fan capacity control are more energy efficient, so discharge dampers are rarely
used.
TRG-TRC013-EN45
Page 53
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
Inlet Vanes
inlet
inlet
vanes
vanes
Figure 68
Inlet Vanes
The next method of capacity control, inlet vanes, modulates a fan’s capacity
by “preswirling” the air in the direction of fan rotation before it enters the fan
wheel. By changing the air’s angle of entry into the fan, the modulating inlet
vanes lessen the ability of the fan wheel to “bite” the air. This reduces its
airflow capacity which, in turn, reduces its power consumption and its ability to
generate static pressure.
Inlet Vanes
inlet vane
inlet vane
position (%)
position (%)
static pressure
static pressure
airflow
airflow
Inlet vanes actually alter fan performance, creating a new fan performance
curve with each vane position. Notice that with each increment of vane closing,
the power requirement becomes less. Therefore, with inlet vanes, fan energy
savings are realized any time the load drops below the design airflow.
Inlet vanes can, however, cause significant acoustical tones at part load when
applied to BI, AF, and vaneaxial fans.
46TRG-TRC013-EN
input power
input power
80%
80%
90%
90%
100%
100%
Figure 69
Page 54
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
Inlet Vanes
surge
surge
surge
line
line
inlet vane
inlet vane
position (%)
position (%)
VAV system
VAV system
static pressure
static pressure
modulation
modulation
curve
sensor
sensor
set point
set point
As the VAV terminal units modulate shut, the system resistance curve shifts
upward. The fan begins to “ride up” its current vane position curve toward B,
from the design operating point A, trying to balance with this new system
resistance curve. As a result, the fan delivers a lower airflow at a higher static
pressure.
curve
line
&
airflow
airflow
%
design system
design system
resistance curve
resistance curve
$
Figure 70
The system static-pressure controller senses this higher static pressure and
sends a signal to the inlet vanes, instructing them to begin closing. When the
inlet vanes are closed, the performance curve for the fan shifts downward until
the balance point C falls along the VAV system modulation curve and the fan
satisfies the system static-pressure controller.
The advantage that inlet vanes provide over discharge dampers is that the fan
approaches the surge region at a much lower airflow and static pressure.
The low end of the fan’s modulating range is either the intersection of the
modulation curve with the surge line, or the leakage rate through the fully
closed inlet vanes, whichever is larger. Typically, a satisfactory modulating
range is achieved by selecting a fan that is two or three sizes (fan wheel
diameter) smaller than a fan that would be selected for a constant-volume
system. Then the design operating point will fall farther to the right on the
curve, permitting a larger range of modulation.
It should be noted that the addition of vanes to the inlet of a fan introduces a
pressure drop that must be overcome by the fan. Inlet vane performance curves
are established through fan testing, and manufacturers typically publish fan
performance data with the effect of the inlet vanes included.
TRG-TRC013-EN47
Page 55
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
Fan-Speed Control
variable-speed
variable-speed
drive
drive
Figure 71
Fan-Speed Control
The third method of capacity control, fan-speed control, modulates fan
capacity by varying the speed of the wheel rotation. This is commonly
accomplished using a variable-speed device on the fan motor, such as a
variable-frequency drive, a belt-speed changer, a variable-speed mechanical
drive, or an eddy current clutch.
Fan-Speed Control
fan speed curves
fan speed curves
VAV system
VAV system
static pressure
static pressure
modulation
modulation
curve
curve
sensor
sensor
set point
set point
The response of fan-speed control to system static-pressure variations is
similar to that described for inlet vanes.
Again, as the system resistance curve shifts upward and the fan begins to “ride
up” the constant-speed performance curve, toward B, from its design operating
point A, it delivers a lower airflow at a higher static pressure. The system staticpressure controller senses this higher static pressure and sends a signal to the
fan-speed controller, instructing it to slow down the fan motor. This causes the
performance curve for the fan to shift downward until the balance point C falls
48TRG-TRC013-EN
&
airflow
airflow
%
design system
design system
resistance curve
resistance curve
$
Figure 72
Page 56
period three
Fan Capacity Control
notes
along the VAV system modulation curve and the fan satisfies the system
static-pressure controller.
The low end of the fan’s modulation range is limited by the surge region. The
principal advantages of fan-speed control are its energy saving potential and
reduced noise at part load.
Variable-Pitch Blade Control
variable-pitch
variable-pitch
blades
blades
Figure 73
Variable-Pitch Blade Control
Finally, the capacity of variable-pitch vaneaxial (VPVA) fans can be modulated
by swiveling the fan blades to vary their pitch (angle).
TRG-TRC013-EN49
Page 57
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
surge region
surge region
%
design system
design system
resistance curve
resistance curve
input power
input power
25º
25º
$
30º
30º
airflow
airflow
35º
35º
40º
40º
bl
bl
45º
45º
ade
ade
55º
55º
50º
50º
e)
e)
gl
angl
an
(
(
h
h
c
c
t
t
pi
pi
Figure 74
VAV system
VAV system
total pressure
total pressure
modulation
modulation
curve
curve
15º
15º
20º
20º
&
The performance and control of the direct-drive, variable-pitch vaneaxial
(VPVA) fan is similar to that of a fan equipped with inlet vanes.
Again, as the system resistance curve shifts upward and the fan begins to “ride
up” the current blade pitch curve toward B, from its design operating point A, it
delivers a lower airflow at a higher total pressure. The system static-pressure
controller senses this higher static pressure and sends a signal to the fan,
instructing it to change the pitch of the fan blades. This causes the performance
curve for the fan to shift downward until the balance point C falls along the VAV
system modulation curve and the fan satisfies the system static-pressure
controller.
The advantage of variable-pitch blade control is its broad modulation range—
from design airflow to virtually zero airflow—plus its potential for energy
savings.
50TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 58
notes
period three
Fan Capacity Control
Fan Control Comparison
100
100
90
90
80
80
70
70
60
60
50
50
FC fan with
discharge
40
40
dampers
% design power
% design power
30
30
20
20
10
10
0
0
These curves describe the performance characteristics of various methods of
fan capacity control, in terms of the input power required versus the percent of
design airflow. Realize that these are generalized curves based on a given set of
test conditions.
AF fan with
AF fan with
inlet vanes
inlet vanes
FC fan with
discharge
dampers
20
1010 20
BI fan with
BI fan with
discharge
discharge
dampers
dampers
variable-pitch
variable-pitch
vaneaxial
vaneaxial
30
40
50
30
40
50
% design airflow
% design airflow
fan-speed
fan-speed
control
control
60
70
60
70
FC fan with
FC fan with
inlet vanes
inlet vanes
80 90 100
80 90 100
Figure 75
Generally, the forward-curved (FC) centrifugal fan with inlet vanes, the variablepitch vaneaxial (VPVA) fan, and the fan-speed control are similar in
performance. To more accurately compare the various fan types and capacitycontrol methods for a specific application, a life-cycle cost analysis should be
performed.
TRG-TRC013-EN51
Page 59
notes
period four
Application Considerations
Air Conditioning Fans
period four
Figure 76
Several considerations must be addressed when applying fans in air
conditioning systems, including:
■ System static-pressure control
■ System effect
■ Acoustics
■ Effect of actual (nonstandard) conditions on fan selection
■ Equipment certification standards
While not all-inclusive, this list of considerations does represent some of the
key issues.
52TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 60
notes
period four
Application Considerations
System Static-Pressure Control
controller
controller
static
static
pressure
pressure
sensor
sensor
supply
supply
fan
fan
System Static-Pressure Control
Fan capacity control requires a signal from a controller, which monitors static
pressure using a sensor located somewhere in the supply duct system. This
controller compares the sensed pressure to a set point and modulates the fan
capacity to maintain the set point at that sensor location.
VAV
VAV
terminal units
terminal units
Figure 77
In the most common method for sensing and controlling system static
pressure, the static-pressure sensor is located in the supply duct system,
typically two-thirds of the distance between the supply fan outlet and the
critical terminal-unit inlet. The critical terminal unit is at the end of the supply
duct path that represents the largest total pressure drop.
The sensor is field-installed and the controller is set to maintain the pressure
corresponding to that location in the duct system at design airflow conditions.
In larger systems with many terminal units, determining the best sensor
location for all load conditions can be difficult—often determined by trial and
error or by using multiple sensors.
TRG-TRC013-EN53
Page 61
notes
period four
Application Considerations
Optimized Static-Pressure Control
static
static
pressure
pressure
sensor
sensor
supply
supply
fan
fan
VAV terminal units
communicating BAS
communicating BAS
Another method of static-pressure control, the optimized static-pressure
control method, positions a single static-pressure sensor near the fan outlet.
The static-pressure controller dynamically adjusts the static-pressure set point
based on the position of the modulating dampers, or valves, in the VAV terminal
units.
VAV terminal units
Figure 78
The DDC/VAV controller in each terminal unit modulates its valve to maintain
the airflow required by the zone thermostat and keeps track of the valve
position. The building automation system (BAS) continually polls the VAV
terminal units, looking for the most-open VAV damper. The controller resets the
static-pressure set point so that at least one VAV damper (the one requiring the
highest inlet pressure) is nearly wide open. The result is that the supply fan
generates only enough static pressure to ensure the required airflow through
this “critical” terminal unit.
Since the pressure sensor is near the fan outlet, this method allows the sensor
to be factory-installed and tested. It can also serve as the duct high-pressure
sensor. If the terminal units use DDC controls, and the system-level
communications are already in place, this control method provides the highest
energy savings at the lowest cost.
54TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 62
notes
period four
Application Considerations
System Effect
actual system resistance curve
actual system resistance curveactual system resistance curve
&
design system
design system
design system
resistance curve
resistance curve
$
desired
desired
airflow
airflow
resistance curve
Figure 79
system effect
system effect
system effect
pressure loss
pressure loss
pressure loss
static pressure
static pressure
%
airflow
airflow
System Effect
At the end of Period One, we discussed the effect of the air resistance through
the system being greater than predicted. This is often caused by failing to allow
for the effects of the fan connections to the duct system. This system effect
can be attributed to turbulence due to fan inlet and outlet restrictions, and to
nonuniform air distribution influencing fan performance when the fan is
installed in a system.
If unaccounted for during fan selection, the fan – system operating point will fall
at B instead of A, delivering a lower airflow than desired.
System Effect
uniform
uniform
velocity
velocity
profile
profile
Figure 80
System effects related to the fan inlet or outlet generally occur when the air is
not allowed to establish a uniform velocity profile. If there is not enough
straight duct at its inlet or outlet, the fan will not be able to generate the static
pressure for which it was rated. If a diffuser that connects the fan to the duct
system, an elbow, a branch, turning vanes, or a damper is located too close to
TRG-TRC013-EN55
Page 63
period four
Application Considerations
notes
the fan outlet, this system effect should be accounted for in the fan selection. If
an elbow, turning vanes, air straightener, or other obstruction is located too
close to the fan inlet, this system effect should also be accounted for in the fan
selection. Additionally, the effects of preswirling the air prior to it entering the
fan wheel, or the use of an inlet plenum or cabinet, must also be considered.
System-effect correction factors are published by the Air Movement and
Control Association (AMCA) and fan manufacturers, to aid in accounting for
these additional losses before the system is installed. These factors are velocity
dependent and are simply added to the estimated static-pressure loss for the
rest of the system.
Finally, factory-supplied accessories such as silencers, flanges, screens, and
guards may also create additional pressure drops that the fan must overcome.
This information is generally published by the manufacturer and should be
accounted for during fan selection.
Acoustics
return
return
4
airborne
airborne
4
3
3
radiated
radiated
supply
supply
breakout
breakout
supply
supply
1
1
2
2
airborne
airborne
Figure 81
Acoustics
Proper acoustics are essential for a comfortable environment. The sound at any
particular location is the sum of sounds emanating from many sources. HVAC
equipment, copiers, lights, telephones, computers, and people all contribute to
the noise in the space. The challenge for the HVAC system designer is to
anticipate this and create an environment that allows speaking, sleeping, or any
other activity for which the space was designed.
The air-handling equipment is generally a key noise source that must be
addressed in order to ensure a quiet, comfortable space. Sound from a fan
often follows more than one path to the receiver in the space. In this example, a
fan (located inside an air handler) is installed in a mechanical equipment room
next to an occupied space. The sound from this fan ➀ travels with the supply air
to the space, ➁ breaks out of the supply ductwork over the space, ➂ radiates
from the air handler casing and through the wall, and ➃ travels from the fan
inlet, through the return duct system, to the space. All of these paths must be
controlled to achieve the desired sound level in the space.
56TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 64
notes
period four
Application Considerations
fan application
Acoustical Guidelines
▲ Optimize fan and air-handler selection for
lowest overall sound
▲ Select fan to operate safely away from surge
region
▲ Minimize system effects
▲ Use low-pressure-drop duct fittings
(follow SMACNA recommendations)
▲ Avoid rectangular sound traps, if possible
▲ Use adequate vibration isolation
Figure 82
An HVAC system can be made quieter by reducing the source (fan) sound level
and/or increasing the attenuation of the path. In many cases, fan selection is
very important to the final sound level. Smaller, higher-speed fans often create
more noise then larger, lower-speed, and slightly more expensive fans. Sound
is one of the key issues that must be considered during fan selection.
Additionally, the fan should be selected to operate safely away from the surge
region.
Other guidelines for the system include:
■ Minimize system effects, since poorly designed ductwork causes turbulent
airflow that results in noise
■ Use low-pressure-drop duct fittings and follow the best practices published
by the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association
(SMACNA) for designing and installing duct systems
■ Avoid rectangular sound traps, if possible
■ On larger fans, isolate the fan from the air handler to minimize vibration
Lowering the sound level of the source reduces the sound transmitted through
all paths. In order to treat the paths, first analyze them all and determine which
are critical. Then compare different methods of attenuating the critical path. An
optimum solution involves addressing the source and the paths during system
design. Software tools exist to model HVAC system noise in acousticallysensitive projects.
TRG-TRC013-EN57
Page 65
notes
period four
Application Considerations
Effect of Actual Conditions
1) Air Density Ratio =
2) SP
3) Use Airflow
4) RPM
5) Power
standard
standard
actual
=
SP
Air Density Ratio
and SP
actual
= RPM
= Air Density Ratio × Power
Density
Density
actual
actual
standard
standard
actual
to select fan
standard
Figure 83
Effect of Actual (Nonstandard) Conditions
Most fan performance data is published at standard air conditions, which are
basically sea level elevation and 70°F [21°C]. If the airflow requirement for a
given application is stated at nonstandard conditions, a density correction must
be made prior to selecting a fan.
The procedure for selecting a fan at actual elevations and/or temperatures is:
1) Determine the actual air density and calculate the air density ratio (density
at actual conditions divided by density at standard conditions)
2) Divide the design static pressure at actual conditions by this air density
ratio
3) Use the actual design airflow and static pressure, corrected for standard
conditions, to select the fan from the performance tables/charts and to
determine the speed (rpm) and input power requirement of the fan at
standard conditions
4) The fan speed (rpm) is the same at both standard and actual conditions
5) Multiply the input power requirement by the air density ratio to determine
the actual input power required
It is important to note that most pressure-loss charts for other system
components, such as ducts, filters, coils, etc. are also based on standard air
conditions.
58TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 66
notes
period four
Application Considerations
Equipment Certification Standards
▲ Purpose
◆ Establish methods for
laboratory testing of air
moving devices
Figure 84
Equipment Certification Standards
The Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA) establishes testing
procedures and rating standards for air-moving devices. AMCA also certifies
performance and labels equipment through programs that involve random
testing of a manufacturer’s equipment to verify published performance.
The overall objective of
), titled “Laboratory Methods of Testing Fans for Rating,” is to promote
51
consistent testing methods for fans, blowers, exhausters, and some types of air
compressors.
The Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration Institute (ARI) has similar standards for
fans that are a part of equipment such as fan coils, central-station air handlers,
unit ventilators, and water-source heat pumps. These standards, such as
Standard 430
handler casing around the fan and establish rating, testing, and certification
standards for equipment manufacturers.
for central-station air handlers, account for the effects of the air
AMCA Standard 210
(also known as
ASHRAE Standard
ARI
TRG-TRC013-EN59
Page 67
notes
period five
Review
Air Conditioning Fans
period five
Figure 85
Let’s review the main concepts that were covered in this clinic on air
conditioning fans.
Review—Period One
design system
design system
design system
resistance curve
resistance curve
resistance curve
surge
surge
surge
region
region
region
static pressure
static pressure
airflow
airflow
Period One introduced the method of determining and plotting fan
performance. It also discussed static pressure versus velocity pressure and the
interaction of the fan and the system.
f
f
a
a
n
n
s
s
p
p
e
e
e
e
d
d
input
input
power
power
Figure 86
60TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 68
notes
period five
Review
Review—Period Two
axial
centrifugal
Figure 87
Period Two introduced the various fan types, including forward curved (FC),
backward inclined (BI), airfoil (AF), and vaneaxial.
Review—Period Three
▲ “Riding the fan curve”
▲ Discharge dampers
▲ Inlet vanes
▲ Fan-speed control
▲ Variable-pitch blade control
Figure 88
Period Three presented various methods for controlling fan capacity, including
“riding the fan curve,” discharge dampers, inlet vanes, variable fan-speed
control, and variable-pitch blade control.
TRG-TRC013-EN61
Page 69
notes
period five
Review
Review—Period Four
▲ Application considerations
◆ System static-pressure control
◆ System effect
◆ Acoustics
◆ Effect of actual (nonstandard) conditions on fan
selection
◆ Equipment certification standards
Figure 89
Period Four covered several considerations in the application of fans in air
conditioning systems, including system static-pressure control, system effect,
acoustics, the effect of actual (nonstandard) conditions on fan selection, and
equipment certification standards.
62TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 70
notes
period five
Review
Figure 90
For more information, refer to the following references:
■
Fans and their Application in Air Conditioning
number ED-FAN)
■ Trane
■ “VAV System Optimization” (Trane
■ “Specifying ‘Quality Sound’” (Trane
■
■
■
■
The World Wide Web is another helpful resource. Sites to visit include:
For information on additional educational materials available from Trane,
contact your local Trane sales office (request a copy of the Educational
Materials price sheet — Trane order number EM-ADV1) or visit our online
bookstore at www.trane.com/bookstore/.
Air Conditioning Manual
Engineers Newsletter
number 2)
Engineers Newsletter
number 3)
Acoustics in Air Conditioning
literature order number FND-AM-5)
ASHRAE Handbook—Systems and Equipment
AMCA Fan Application Manual
SMACNA HVAC Systems Duct Design
the ASHRAE Bookstore at www.ashrae.org.
the AMCA Web site at www.amca.org.
the SMACNA Web site at www.smacna.org.
Applications Engineering Manual (Trane
(publications 200, 201, 202, and 203)
(Trane literature order
, 1991–volume 20,
, 1996–volume 25,
TRG-TRC013-EN63
Page 71
Quiz
Questions for Period 1
1 The total pressure generated by the fan is made up of two components,
__________ pressure and __________ pressure.
2 The total pressure (P
static pressure (P
conditions, ρ = 0.0749 lb/ft
) measured within a duct is 3.5 in. H2O [872 Pa] and the
t
) is 3 in. H2O [747 Pa]. Assume the air is at standard
s
3
[1.204 kg/m3].
a What is the velocity pressure (P
b What is the air velocity (V)?
c If the outlet area of the fan is 1.5 ft
&
%
$
)?
v
2
[0.14 m2], what is the fan airflow?
(
'
Figure 91
3 Using the fan performance curve in Figure 91, answer the following
questions:
a What property is plotted on the horizontal axis labeled A?
b What property is plotted on the vertical axis labeled B?
c What property is represented by the curves labeled C?
d What property is represented by the curves labeled D?
4 Again using Figure 91, what condition is represented by the region to the
left of the curve labeled E?
Questions for Period 2
5 List the three primary types of centrifugal fans.
64TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 72
Quiz
6 Between the forward curved (FC) and backward inclined (BI) fans, which
one can handle higher static-pressure applications?
7 Explain why the forward curved (FC) fan is called an overloading type of
fan.
Questions for Period 3
8 List three methods of fan capacity control.
9 What method of fan capacity control “preswirls” the air in the direction of
fan rotation before it enters the fan wheel?
10 How is the capacity of a variable-pitch vaneaxial (VPVA) fan controlled?
Questions for Period 4
11 List two possible causes of system effect.
12 What document establishes laboratory testing methods for air-moving
devices?
TRG-TRC013-EN65
Page 73
Answers
1 velocity pressure and static pressure
2aP
= 0.5 in. H2O [125 Pa]
v
b V = 2,832 fpm [14.4 m/s]
c Airflow = 4,248 cfm [2 m
3
/s]
3aairflow
b static pressure
c fan speed (rpm)
d input power
4 surge
5 forward curved (FC), backward inclined (BI) or backward curved (BC), and
airfoil (AF) or plug (plenum)
6 backward inclined (BI)
7 As the fan airflow increases, the nature of the fan’s input power curves
causes the fan’s power requirement to also increase, possibly overloading
the motor.
8 “riding the fan curve,” discharge dampers, inlet vanes, fan-speed control,
and variable-pitch blade control
9 inlet vanes
10 By adjusting (swiveling) the pitch of the fan blades.
11 Here are five possible causes:
1 Not enough straight duct at the fan inlet or outlet to ensure a uniform
velocity profile
2 A diffuser that connects the fan to the duct system, an elbow, a branch,
turning vanes, or a damper located too close to the fan outlet
3 An elbow, turning vanes, air straightener, or other obstruction located too
close to the fan inlet
4 Preswirling the air prior to it entering the fan wheel
5 Use of an inlet plenum or cabinet
12
AMCA Standard 210
“Laboratory Methods of Testing Fans for Rating”
66TRG-TRC013-EN
(also known as
ASHRAE Standard 51
), titled
Page 74
Glossary
adjustable-frequency drive (AFD)
airfoil (AF) A type of centrifugal fan that is similar to the backward inclined
fan, with the exception that the fan blades are in the shape of an airfoil, like an
airplane wing.
AMCA Air Movement and Control Association
ARI Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration Institute
ASHRAE American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers
attenuation The process in which sound energy is absorbed or otherwise
diminished in intensity.
axial fan A type of fan where the air passes straight through the fan, parallel to
the shaft.
backward curved (BC) A type of centrifugal fan with blades that are curved
away from the direction of wheel rotation.
backward inclined (BI) A type of centrifugal fan with flat blades that are
slanted away from the direction of wheel rotation.
BAS Building automation system
blocked-tight static pressure The point on the fan performance curve where
there is no airflow: only static pressure is being generated by the fan.
See
variable-speed drive.
centrifugal fan A type of fan where the air enters the center of the fan from the
side and follows a radial path through the fan wheel.
constant-volume system A type of air conditioning system that varies the
temperature of a constant volume of air supplied to meet the changing load
conditions of the space.
DDC Direct digital control: a method of unit control using a microprocessor
that enables digital communication between the unit controller and a central
building automation system.
discharge damper A device used to control the capacity of a fan by creating a
static-pressure drop in the system, just downstream of the fan.
dynamometer A device used to measure the power applied to the fan shaft.
VAV system modulation curve A curve that illustrates the VAV system fan’s
static-pressure requirement over the range of airflows.
fan performance curve A plot of a specific fan’s airflow capacity at a given
speed (rpm) versus the pressure it generates.
TRG-TRC013-EN67
Page 75
Glossary
fan-speed control A method of controlling fan capacity by varying its speed of
rotation—commonly accomplished using a variable-speed drive on the fan
motor.
forward curved (FC) A type of centrifugal fan with blades curved in the
direction of wheel rotation.
inlet vanes A device used to control the capacity of a fan by “preswirling” the
air in the direction of fan wheel rotation before it enters the wheel, lessening its
ability to “bite” the air and reducing its airflow capacity.
manometer A device used to measure small pressures within a duct system.
optimized static-pressure control An optimized method of VAV system static-
pressure control that uses the benefits of DDC control to continuously reset the
static-pressure set point of the system, so that the VAV terminal requiring the
highest inlet pressure is nearly wide open.
See
plenum fan
plug fan A type of centrifugal fan; it consists of an unhoused fan wheel with
airfoil fan blades and an inlet cone that pressurizes the plenum surrounding the
fan, allowing the air to discharge in multiple directions.
plug fan.
“riding the fan curve” A method of fan capacity modulation that involves no
direct form of control, but simply allows the fan to react to the change in system
static pressure and “ride” up and down its performance curve.
propeller fan A type of axial fan that is well suited for high volumes of air, but
which has little or no static-pressure generating capability.
SMACNA Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association
sound trap A device installed in an air duct system to control discharge air
noise.
static efficiency The percentage of input power that is realized as useful work
in terms of static energy (pressure).
static pressure Pressure due to the perpendicular outward “push” of the air
against the duct walls.
surge A condition of unstable fan operation where the air alternately flows
backward and forward through the fan wheel, generating noise and vibration.
system effect Turbulence due to fan inlet and outlet restrictions, where the air
is not allowed to establish a uniform velocity profile, influencing fan
performance.
system resistance curve A curve representing the pressure that the system
(including the supply ductwork, duct fittings, terminal units, supply diffusers,
return grilles, coils, filters, dampers, etc.) creates over a range of airflows.
68TRG-TRC013-EN
Page 76
Glossary
notes
total efficiency The percentage of input power that is realized as useful work
in terms of total energy (pressure).
total pressure Sum of the velocity pressure plus static pressure.
tubeaxial fan A type of axial fan consisting of a propeller fan mounted in a
cylinder.
vaneaxial fan A type of axial fan with vane-type straighteners on the outlet to
improve efficiency and reduce turbulence and generated noise.
variable-pitch blade control A method of vaneaxial fan capacity control
achieved by adjusting the pitch of the fan blades.
variable-air-volume (VAV) system A type of air conditioning system that
varies the volume of constant-temperature air supplied to meet the changing
load conditions of the space.
variable-pitch vaneaxial (VPVA) fan A type of vaneaxial fan that adjusts the
pitch (angle) of its blades to match the airflow and pressure requirements of the
system.
variable-speed drive A device used to control the capacity of a fan by varying
the speed of the motor that rotates the fan wheel.
VAV terminal unit A sheet metal assembly installed upstream of the space to
vary the quantity of air delivered to the conditioned space.
velocity pressure Pressure due to the axial movement of the air through the
duct.
wide-open airflow The point on the fan performance curve where the system
offers no resistance to airflow. The pressure generated by the fan is velocity
pressure only—the static pressure is negligible.
TRG-TRC013-EN69
Page 77
The Trane Company
Worldwide Applied Systems Group
3600 Pammel Creek Road
La Crosse, WI 54601-7599
www.trane.com
An American Standard Company
Literature Order NumberTRG-TRC013-EN
File NumberE/AV-FND-TRG-TRC013-1099-EN
Supersedes2803-9-285
Stocking LocationInland-La Crosse
Since The Trane Company has a policy of continuous product improvement, it reserves the right to change
design and specifications without notice.
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