Axial Fan vs Centrifugal Fan: What's the Difference and How to Choose?
Industrial cooling fans are mainly divided into axial fans and centrifugal fans by airflow direction. JIEFENGFAN offers both AC/DC/EC axial fans and AC/DC centrifugal blowers. Selection should start by evaluating duct resistance and airflow requirements.
Key Comparison
| Item | Axial Fan | Centrifugal Fan |
|---|---|---|
| Airflow direction | Parallel to shaft | Perpendicular to shaft (centrifugal) |
| Airflow | High | Relatively lower |
| Static pressure | Low | High |
| Resistance suit | Low-resistance systems | High-resistance systems |
| Noise | Relatively lower | Higher at same size |
| Structure | Simple, compact | More complex, larger volume |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Typical use | Control cabinets, enclosures, machinery | Telecom equipment, power modules, sealed spaces |
How to Choose
First, check whether the internal space is open: if air flows freely without filters or heat sinks, an axial fan works. Second, assess duct resistance: if air must pass through dense components, heat sinks, filters, or narrow channels, choose a centrifugal fan to overcome resistance. Third, consider mounting space and noise requirements.
For further selection, prepare mounting dimensions, voltage, target airflow/static pressure, operating environment, continuous operation requirements, and control function needs, then compare against product parameters, or contact us for selection support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between axial fans and centrifugal fans?
Axial fans move air parallel to the shaft, with high airflow and low static pressure, suited to low-resistance systems. Centrifugal fans throw air perpendicular to the shaft, with high static pressure for high-resistance systems. At the same size, centrifugal fans are typically noisier, more complex, and more expensive.
What applications suit axial fans?
Equipment with relatively open space, low resistance, and high airflow needs, such as control cabinets, electrical enclosures, machinery, and cabinet cooling.
What applications suit centrifugal fans?
Equipment with high duct resistance needing high static pressure to overcome filters, heat sinks, or narrow channels, such as telecom equipment, power modules, and sealed enclosures.
Which is noisier, axial or centrifugal fans?
At the same size, centrifugal fans typically run at higher speed and are relatively noisier. Axial fans have better noise control at high airflow.
Does Jiefeng offer both axial and centrifugal fans?
Yes. JIEFENGFAN offers AC/DC/EC axial fans and AC/DC centrifugal blowers, selectable based on duct resistance and airflow requirements.