There were 1,774 accepted worker compensation claims resulting from working in heat between 2018 and 2019. Industrial facilities must take great care when managing a working environment, ensuring that workers are comfortable and equipment is safe.
With the latest forecasts for 2023 predicting an above average summer, and most of Australia 2.5 times more likely to experience an unusually high maximum temperatures, it’s important to get your ventilation sorted out before summer hits.
Industrial fans, also commonly known as giant fans, or High Volume Low Speed (HVLS) are large ceiling fans that move a high volume of air, while moving at relatively low speeds. They’re most commonly seen in gyms or large hardware stores, and can range from 2 – 7m in diameter.
Their size and slow movements make them a powerful yet cost effective way to move air. Keep reading as we discuss the cooling requirements of industrial facilities and the best ventilation solutions for industrial cooling.
Everything you need to know about industrial cooling fans
Let’s discuss everything you need to know about industrial fans.
What are industrial fans for?
Here are some of the top applications for industrial fans:
- Providing ventilation – industrial fans help to circulate air in industrial facilities, providing a steady air exchange rate for a comfortable and safe working environment. A solid air exchange rate encourages the dissipation of pollutants, dust, fumes, and other contaminants generated in industrial processes.
- Temperature control – when heavy machinery and equipment are used in a manufacturing environment, this can generate significant heat. By moving air within the facility, industrial fans can encourage even temperature distribution, helping to prevent overheating for both workers and equipment.
- Humidity control – when the air is too humid in an industrial environment, this can cause condensation, leading to equipment degradation. Industrial fans help disperse humidity and reduce moisture to keep your equipment working.
- Preventing ignition – when working in industrial settings like the mining industry, explosive or combustible elements in the air can present a risk of explosions. Some industrial fans are designed with preventative safety features to reduce the risk of explosions.
How do industrial fans work to cool a room?
Industrial fans provide effective cooling in industrial environments. Here’s how:
- Wind chill effect – by providing a constant breeze with high-volume airflow, industrial ceiling fans allow sweat to evaporate to aid workers’ in their body’s natural cooling processes. This process is known as evaporative cooling and is the same principle used in air conditioning.
- Reducing air pockets – stagnant air pockets can develop in your industrial facility without proper ventilation or airflow. These air pockets can be made up of hot or cold air, which may reduce the efficiency of your heating or cooling systems.
- Enhancing air conditioning – you can use industrial fans with air conditioning systems to improve their cooling capacity. The fans can direct air towards specific areas to ensure even temperature distribution.
- Cooling machinery – machinery can produce heat; without proper ventilation and airflow, the area surrounding the machinery can become too hot. Industrial fans help to disperse the hot air produced by machinery.
Industrial fans as a hybrid solution
Many alternative ventilation suppliers only sell industrial fans. However, giant fans are most effective if used as part of a hybrid ventilation solution. The main benefit of giant fans is that they move large amounts of air, however, if the air is pre-cooled, heated, or filtered, this ensures that the air circulated downwards is at it’s most effective.
Hybrid Solution examples:
Air Conditioning
Giant fans used in conjuction with air conditioning will reduce the power bill and increase overall comfort. By creating even temperature distribution and pushing the cool air downwards, this will ensure the cooled air gets to where it’s most effective.
Extraction systems
A common complaint we hear is that industrial fans often seem to only be pushing hot air onto the people below. In these instances it means that an extraction system should be installed to ensure the removal of excessive hot air. Hot air rises, which is filtered out using extraction systems, allowing for the cool air remaining to be circulated by the industrial fans.
Heating systems
Hot air rises, which often renders heating systems slow and ineffective, as the heating needs to heat the whole room beginning with the ceiling. Giant fans have been shown to reduce heating costs by up to 30% by moving the warm air downwards. This is known as destratification.
The dual use of industrial fans throughout both summer and winter make them a practical and effective choice for a range of industrial applications.
How to maintain industrial fans
It’s in your best interest to maintain your industrial fans to ensure they operate optimally and to lengthen their lifespan for improved ROI. You should regularly inspect the fan blades for dust, dirt, and debris to keep your industrial fans in top condition. Clean the blades using brushes and specialised equipment regularly.
Additionally, you should ensure the mechanisms of the industrial fan are well lubricated with industry-grade lubricant. This will ensure your fan is not grinding and becoming worn over time due to friction.
Finally, you should consistently monitor and adjust the fan belt tension regularly. If the belt is loose or worn out, this could lead to increased vibration, which will affect the longevity of your fan.
Signs your industrial fan needs repairs
Is your fan working at optimal capacity and providing ROI? Here are some signs you should invest in repairs for your industrial fan:
- Unusual sounds or vibrations – if the fan belt or components need replacing, you might notice unique sounds or vibrations emitted from your fan while in use.
- Reduced performance – if you notice a significant decrease in your fan’s efficiency, it could require repairs.
- Overheating – inadequate cooling or motor malfunctions can lead to further damage and may cause your fan to overheat. If your fan is overheating, you should have it checked by a professional as soon as possible.
Giant fans for industrial facilities
Giant fans benefit large-scale industrial environments, providing a high airflow volume and widespread coverage. Giant fans with high volume low speed (HVLS) capacity can help you to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while providing a solution for heat destratification in winter. Giant fans enable managing contaminants and humidity in the air while giving steady airflow and even temperature distribution.
Summary
If you manage an industrial facility, ventilation solutions should be top of mind for worker safety and comfortable working conditions. A giant fan can provide high-volume airflow to meet the needs of large-scale industrial facilities. Maintaining and repairing your fan regularly will help you to increase its lifespan and ensure ROI on your ventilation investments.
Are you planning your ventilation strategy? Our Fanquip team can help you understand your ventilation requirements and recommend the ideal ventilation solution based on your specific needs.
