The core function of a blower is to deliver air or gas at a higher pressure and velocity than a standard ventilation fan, so that it can overcome greater resistance in pipes, burners, process equipment or conveying lines. While large axial and centrifugal fans are used to move bulk air through tunnels, shafts and buildings, blowers serve more focused roles in industrial and mining systems where a stronger push is required in a smaller airflow path.
One of the most common functions of a blower is to supply combustion air. Furnaces, boilers, kilns and some dryers require a precisely controlled flow of air at a certain pressure to ensure stable flame, complete combustion and efficient heat transfer. Here, a combustion air blower forces air through registers, burners and mixing devices. The higher pressure from the blower allows air to pass through narrow openings and burner tiles that shape the flame and control mixing with fuel.
Blowers are also widely used to provide process air for various operations. Examples include supplying air to aeration tanks in wastewater treatment, feeding air to oxidation or drying processes, and delivering cooling air to hot components or electrical cabinets. In each case, the blower’s function is to maintain the necessary pressure and flow so that the process behaves predictably, even as resistance changes with filters, valves or product buildup.
Another important function is in pneumatic conveying. Blowers can transport powders, granules or small particles through pipelines using air as the conveying medium. The blower generates enough pressure and velocity to lift material, keep it suspended and move it to silos, hoppers or processing equipment. In mining and bulk handling industries, such systems may be used for additives, reagents or fine products where mechanical conveyors are not suitable.
Blowers also support local extraction and cooling. They can be connected to hoods, ducts or nozzles to pull fumes away from a source or to blow cooling air onto hot surfaces. For example, a small high-pressure blower might be used to cool a motor, purge a control panel or ventilate a confined machinery space where a large general ventilation fan cannot reach.
In summary, the function of a blower is to move air or gas at higher pressure and velocity than a typical ventilation fan, enabling it to feed burners, supply process air, convey materials and provide focused extraction or cooling in industrial and mining systems.
