In mining and industrial ventilation systems, axial fans and centrifugal fans each have distinct application advantages due to their differences in airflow direction, performance parameters, and structural design. This article systematically compares their working principles, key parameters, selection points, and typical application scenarios, to help engineers make the optimal fan selection based on project requirements.
1. Working Principle Comparison
Axial Fan
Air flows straight through along the fan shaft, propelled forward by the blades.
Structure: Impeller and motor are installed on the same shaft; inlet and outlet are aligned horizontally.
Features: High airflow, low head (pressure), low starting resistance.
Centrifugal Fan
Air enters from the center (inlet), and is thrown to the periphery by centrifugal force generated by the rotating impeller. Pressure builds up inside the volute or diffuser before discharge.
Structure: Impeller is housed inside a volute, inlet is axial, outlet is radial.
Features: High head (pressure), moderate airflow, can easily overcome network resistance.
2. Key Performance Differences
| Performance Index | Axial Fan | Centrifugal Fan |
|---|---|---|
| Flow Range | 50,000–300,000 m³/h (large) | 5,000–200,000 m³/h |
| Total Pressure | 500–1,200 Pa (low-pressure) | 1,000–5,000 Pa (med-high) |
| Efficiency | 75%–85% | 65%–80% |
| Noise Level | Lower (straight airflow, blade noise concentrated) | Higher (air turns, volute resonance) |
| Structure | Compact, small installation space | Larger, space needed for volute & maintenance |
| Speed Range | 600–1,800 rpm | 1,200–3,600 rpm |
3. Selection Guidelines
System Resistance & Duct Length:
Axial fans are preferred for systems with low resistance and long straight ducts.
For higher resistance or complex ducts (many bends/flanges), centrifugal fans have an advantage.Space & Installation:
Axial fans are compact and can be directly mounted at shaft mouths or short ducts.
Centrifugal fans need extra space for volute inspection and discharge.Energy Consumption & Efficiency:
Axial fans offer higher efficiency and lower energy use for large airflow, low-pressure scenarios.
Centrifugal fans maintain stable efficiency across a wider range, ideal for mid/high-pressure, medium/small airflow.Maintenance:
Axial fans have a simple structure—easy to replace blades or motors.
Centrifugal fans require disassembling the housing for impeller maintenance, taking more time.Noise & Vibration Control:
For noise-sensitive areas, fit guide vanes and silencers.
Centrifugal fans typically use flexible mounts and vibration-dampening bases for smoother operation.
4. Typical Application Scenarios
Axial Fan:
Main ventilation in mine shafts, local ventilation underground
Metallurgical furnace exhaust, tunnel and subway emergency ventilation
Large workshop ventilation and air exchange
Centrifugal Fan:
Multi-stage ducted ventilation and gas extraction in underground coal mines
Dust collection and gas transfer in chemical plants
High-pressure dust removal and drying systems in cement and steel industries
5. Conclusion & Recommendations
Quick Selection Flow:
Evaluate required airflow and network resistance
Assess installation space and maintenance cycle
Compare energy efficiency and overall costs for the best solutionNext Steps:
After initial selection, use CFD simulation or field testing to validate aerodynamic performance.
Integrate online monitoring and VFD technology to further optimize efficiency and reliability.
With this systematic comparison, you can select the most suitable fan for your actual conditions, balancing installation needs and operational requirements to ensure an economical, efficient, and reliable ventilation system.