What is the Difference Between Fan and Blower?

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The main difference between a fan and a blower lies in their functionality, specifically in terms of pressure and airflow. Here are the key differences:

  • Fans are electrical devices that move air and create a flow within a fluid, such as air. They typically have blades or vanes that rotate, acting on the air and producing air at low pressure. Fans circulate air throughout a defined space and are usually powered by electric motors, but sometimes they can use hydraulic motors or internal combustion engines as well.
  • Blowers are mechanical devices that consist of a fan, a channel, and an inlet and outlet. They direct air to a specific point or in a particular direction. Blowers operate at moderate pressure, with an air pressure ratio of 1:1.1 to 1:1.2. They are used in situations where the system resistance is higher than that for a fan, such as moving air through ducting.

In summary, fans are designed to circulate air throughout a space, while blowers focus on directing air in a specific direction and operate at moderate pressure.

Comparative Table: Fan vs Blower

Fans and blowers are both used for air circulation and cooling, but they differ in terms of functionality, applications, and performance. Here is a table outlining the differences between fans and blowers:

Parameter Fan Blower
Pressure Ratio Up to 1.11 Between 1.11 and 1.2
Airflow Direction Circulates air throughout a defined space Directs air in a specific direction
Air Pressure Low, with little to no change in pressure Moderate, with an increase in pressure
Function Moves large volumes of air Pushes air with higher pressure
Blade Type Blades arranged around a central point Impellers for rotation
Motor Type Typically electric, but can also use internal combustion engines or hydraulic motors Primarily electric
Common Applications HVAC systems, indoor air circulation, and electronic equipment cooling Industrial vacuum applications, specific directional airflow

Fans are electrical devices that move large volumes of air with little to no change in air pressure, while blowers operate at moderate pressure and direct air in a specific direction. Understanding the differences between fans and blowers can help optimize performance and energy efficiency in various applications.