All
fans are not the same. Fan performance is more than simply specifying a certain
volume of flow capacity and then hoping for the best. In the real world, most
fans can't deliver their theoretical performance. However, ebm-papst has introduced a new line
of S-Force tube-axial fans that deliver dramatic and consistent performance.
From
the start, motor technology, aerodynamics and electronics were made the
foundation of the design of the S-Force fans. For instance, according to Joe Landrette,
an engineer with ebm-papst, the new design offers not only improved air
handling performance, but also reduced acoustic impact, and improved reliability
and efficiency... "All of which are revolutionary improvements in key areas of
concern for today's thermal engineers."
The
S-Force series is built around compact multi-pole motors that deliver high
efficiency with low dissipated energy. In fact, some of the new motors attain a
peak power of more than 300 watts. Altogether,
the new combinations of motor materials increases fan motor efficiency by
8-11%. Likewise, the S-Force motors offer 400-500% more power handling
capabilities compared to fans of just three years ago -- and the more efficient
motors and motor cooling technology result in longer life and higher MTBF.
Above
all, notes Landrette, S-force fans can offer 40 - 100% more "in
system" performance. "Our S-Force show
an improvement in free flow measurements compared to earlier fans but it is when
they are matched to an enclosure that their performance advantage really
becomes apparent," he adds. Unlike most
fans, S-Force fans provide a high static pressure, meaning they actually move
air in situations where circuitry, cabling and inadequate ventilation openings
would stop traditional designs.
"We
not only improved the speed and flow of the fan but we optimized its
performance by applying computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to improve our
results. That high performance and
higher pressure capability translates into ample air flow and reliable
performance in a wide range of chassis and system configurations.
"There
may be a high level of flow resistance but our fan tends to maintain its
constant speed and flow all while providing a high degree of fan reliability," adds
Landrette.
Beyond
sheer performance, the S-Force also offers new or improved capabilities in
other areas as well. For instance, the new fan blade geometry - winglets have
been added to the blade tips as well as new blade shapes -- offers up to a 6-8dBA
noise reduction, which means half the sound power and a 50% reduction in sound
level. And, new fan control options are
available, too. These features include speed monitoring, closed loop speed
control, operation monitoring, integrated or external temperature sensor, or
microprocessor-controlled motor management for software-controlled fan
operation.
"The
S-Series is a tremendous step forward," notes Landrette. Furthermore, he says,
"ebm-papst has tremendous expertise in fan control designs, fan tray designs,
drop, shock, vibration, climate and acoustic testing, sheet metal capabilities,
custom fan designs and even thermal consulting, so we can work with customers
to solve any kind of problem."
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