A centrifugal fan is used wherever you need reliable airflow at moderate to high pressure in a ducted or process system. Because it can generate higher static pressure than most axial fans of similar size, the centrifugal fan has become a workhorse in industrial plants, mines, HVAC systems and process industries.
One major use is in dust collection and filtration systems. After dust-laden air passes through cyclones or bag filters, a centrifugal fan provides the pressure needed to pull air through the filters and push cleaned air into exhaust stacks. Radial or backward-inclined centrifugal fans are common in these systems because they can handle the pressure drops created by filters, ductwork and dampers.
In industrial process exhaust, centrifugal fans remove fumes, vapours, smoke and hot gases from furnaces, kilns, smelters, incinerators and chemical reactors. The fan must overcome resistance from ducts, heat exchangers and scrubbers while handling elevated temperatures and sometimes corrosive gases. Special materials, coatings and cooling arrangements are used to ensure reliable operation under these harsh conditions.
Centrifugal fans also play a key role in mining and tunnel ventilation subsystems. While main ventilation in long tunnels and large mines often relies on axial fans, centrifugal fans are widely used for local exhaust, booster systems, dust extraction near crushers and material handling points, and for supplying air through ducted systems where higher pressure is needed. Their robust construction and ability to cope with dust and pressure make them ideal for these tasks.
In HVAC and building services, centrifugal fans are used in air handling units, rooftop units, clean rooms and large air distribution systems. Backward-curved and airfoil centrifugal fans provide efficient, relatively quiet airflow to supply conditioned air to different zones and recover energy in heat recovery units.
Another important application is combustion air and forced draft. Boilers, furnaces and large burners require a steady supply of combustion air at controlled pressure. Centrifugal fans deliver this air reliably, ensuring proper fuel–air mixing and stable combustion. Induced draft centrifugal fans on the exhaust side maintain the correct pressure and draw flue gases through heat exchangers and pollution control equipment.
In summary, centrifugal fans are used for dust collection, process and furnace exhaust, HVAC air handling, mining and tunnel subsystems, combustion air supply and many other tasks where controlled airflow at higher pressure and robust performance are required.
