Different types of Inline Fan

Different types of inline fans explained

At Pure Ventilation we sell a wide range of inline fans, quite possibly the most comprehensive range that can be found in Australia. A common question we receive is “what type of inline fan do i need?”. In this FAQ post we will take a look at the different types of inline fan motors and the applications each is best suited for. The main types of motor are axial, mixflow and centrifugal.

Axial Inline Fans

Axial fan motors are generally suited to applications that require high extraction at a low pressure. Low pressure means that the fan is not particularly well suited when a long duct run is needed. View our range of axial fans here.

Well suited Applications for an Axial motor
A small toilet
A small bathroom, ensuite or laundry
An installation that has minimal ducting (less than a few meters).

Centrifugal Inline Fans

A centrifugal extraction fan motor is the opposite to an axial motor in terms of its characteristics when dealing with pressure. The centrifugal motor has been engineered to operate with long duct runs which may have bends, junctions and multiple inlets/outlets. View our range of centrifugal fans here.

Well suited Applications for a Centrifugal motor
Large heat transfer systems
Large Sub floor ventilation systems
Servicing a large area
An installation that has a vast amount of ducting (20 meters or more)

Mixflow Inline Fans

Mixed Flow Inline exhaust fans are a mixture between the Axial and Centrifugal models. They have good airflow and good pressure characteristics, can be used for longer runs of duct, bends, branches, etc. They show centrifugal fan characteristics from a size of 150mm upwards and axial fan characteristics for sizes smaller than 150mm. View our range of mix flow fans here

Well Suited Applications for a Mix Flow Motor
Medium/Large bathroom, ensuite or laundry
Installation that has a moderate amount of ducting (from 0-20 meters approx)

The above information is a general guide. Please refer to the volume vs pressure curves of each fan for more detailed technical information. This is available on each and every inline fan product listing along with other useful technical data such as fan sizes, power, suitable accessories etc.

This article was written on 12th May 2016 by our in house specialist Andy.