Axial Fans: How to Choose the Right One?

26.01.26

Axial fans are among the most widely used air movement solutions in industrial, commercial, and residential environments. They provide high airflow, efficient operation, and a compact design, making them an ideal choice for various ventilation and cooling systems. However, when selecting a fan, it is important to understand several technical parameters — especially power, IP protection rating, and performance indicators.

How Does an Axial Fan Work?
An axial fan moves air along its axis, meaning the airflow travels parallel to the direction of the fan’s rotation. This design principle enables:

high airflow,
relatively low pressure,
low energy consumption,
quiet and efficient operation.
These features make axial fans suitable for air exchange, room cooling, heat extraction, and various industrial applications.

Fan Power — Why Is It Important?
Fan power, most commonly expressed in watts or kilowatts, determines:

how strongly the motor can rotate the blades,
the airflow volume (m³/h) the fan can deliver,
the pressure (Pa) the fan is capable of generating,
how well it performs over long periods and under load.
What to Consider When Choosing Power?
Intended application — industrial environments often require more powerful models.
Duct resistance — the longer and more complex the duct system, the more power is needed.
Operating mode — for continuous operation, motors with higher efficiency and safety reserves are recommended.
Insufficient power will result in low airflow, while excessive power will lead to unnecessary energy consumption. The ideal solution is a fan that meets the requirements with a small safety margin, without being overly oversized.

What Is the IP55 Protection Rating and What Does It Mean?
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating indicates how well an electrical device is protected against:

dust ingress,
moisture,
water splashes.
IP55 is a common protection level for axial fans, especially when they are intended for heavy-duty or dusty environments.

Meaning of the IP55 Rating
First digit “5” — dust protection: the device is not fully dust-tight but dust will not interfere with safe operation.
Second digit “5” — protection against water jets: the fan withstands water splashes and pressure jets from any direction.
When Should You Choose an IP55 Fan?
in production facilities with high dust levels,
in agriculture, warehouses, or woodworking facilities,
in locations exposed to water contact,
on external walls or under a canopy,
in humid or aggressive environments.
An IP55-rated fan is a reliable solution in situations where standard models would quickly wear out or pose maintenance risks.

The Importance of Performance — How to Determine if a Fan Is Effective?
Performance determines how well a fan can carry out its intended task in the long term. The most important performance indicators are:

1. Airflow (m³/h)
The higher the airflow volume, the more air the fan can move per hour.

2. Static Pressure (Pa)
Especially important for spaces with long or complex ventilation ducts.

3. Energy Efficiency
Many modern fans feature:

EC motor technology,
optimized blade design,
low vibration levels,
thermal protection.
Benefit: lower electricity consumption and reduced operating costs.

4. Noise Level (dB)
Important both in offices and industrial environments — a quieter fan creates a more comfortable working atmosphere.

5. Durability and Materials
High‑quality housings and motors ensure stable operation even under heavy use.