This article's table of contents introduction:
- Decoding the Specification
- Typical Technical Specifications (Example)
- Which Fan Type is Best for "Low Pressure"?
- Key Components to Specify
- Electrical Considerations for 18.5 kW
- Common Applications
- How to order one (Checklist):
Based on your query, you are likely looking for specifications, selection criteria, or a supplier for a V-Belt Driven, Low Pressure, 18.55 kW Ventilation Fan for industrial use.
Here is a breakdown of what this specification typically means and the technical details you should consider.
Decoding the Specification
- V-Belt Driven: The fan impeller is connected to the motor via pulleys and V-belts. This is standard for industrial fans because it allows for:
- Speed variation: Changing the pulley sizes adjusts the fan speed (RPM) and thus the airflow/pressure.
- Motor protection: The belt slips slightly under extreme overload, protecting the motor from burnout.
- Isolation: The motor is not directly coupled, reducing vibration transfer.
- Low Pressure: This usually refers to a static pressure range of 50 mmWG to 200 mmWG (approx. 500 Pa to 2000 Pa). These are typically Axial Fans (propeller type) or Backward/Forward Curved Centrifugal Fans for general ventilation.
- 55 kW: This is the motor power rating. This is not a standard "off-the-shelf" power size; common sizes nearby are 15 kW, 18.5 kW, or 22 kW. You likely mean 5 kW. This is a substantial motor requiring a Delta or Star-Delta starter (or VFD).
- Ventilation Fan: Used for general air exchange, cooling, fume extraction, or fresh air supply in factories, warehouses, tunnels, or agricultural buildings.
Typical Technical Specifications (Example)
If you are ordering this fan, you would need to confirm these parameters with the manufacturer:
| Parameter | Typical Value for 18.5 kW Low Pressure Fan |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 5 kW (25.2 HP) |
| Motor Speed | 1450 RPM (4-pole) or 980 RPM (6-pole) |
| Fan Speed (RPM) | Variable based on pulley ratio (e.g., 500 - 900 RPM for axial) |
| Airflow (Volume) | 60,000 m³/h to 100,000 m³/h (High volume for low pressure) |
| Static Pressure | 100 Pa to 800 Pa (10 mmWG - 80 mmWG) |
| Impeller Diameter | 800 mm to 1200 mm (Axial) or 500 mm - 800 mm (Centrifugal) |
| Drive Type | A/B/C/SPB Section V-Belts & Cast Iron Pulleys |
| Bearing Type | Heavy-duty Anti-friction (Self-aligning or Plummer block) |
| Voltage | 380V / 415V / 690V (3-Phase, 50/60Hz) |
| Noise Level | ~80-95 dB(A) (Without silencer) |
Which Fan Type is Best for "Low Pressure"?
- High Volume Axial Flow Fan:
- Best for: Moving very large volumes of air against very low resistance (e.g., wall exhaust, roof ventilation, large room cooling).
- Pros: Cheaper, lighter, highest airflow.
- Cons: Pressure drops quickly if ductwork is long or has bends.
- Backward Curved (BC) Centrifugal Fan:
- Best for: Low to medium pressure systems with some ductwork or filters.
- Pros: Non-overloading power curve (motor won't burn out if duct is blocked), efficient, quieter than axial.
- Cons: More expensive than axial.
- Airfoil Fan:
- Best for: High efficiency low-pressure systems (e.g., clean air supply).
Recommendation for most industrial "ventilation" (moving air through a large space or short duct): A Direct Drive or Belt Drive High Volume Axial Fan is the most common choice.
Key Components to Specify
When purchasing, ensure these are included or specified:
- Motor: TEFC (Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled), IP55, IE3 or IE4 efficiency.
- Belt Guard: Mandatory for safety (OSHA/ISO standards). Must cover all rotating parts.
- Vibration Dampers: For floor/wall mounting to reduce building vibration.
- Inlet/Outlet Guards: Wire mesh to prevent foreign objects.
- Dampers: If you need to isolate the fan for maintenance.
Electrical Considerations for 18.5 kW
- Starting Current: An 18.5 kW motor draws roughly 35A-40A full load current at 400V. Starting current (DOL) can be 200A-250A.
- Starter: You must use a Star-Delta Starter or Soft Starter / VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) to avoid tripping the main breaker.
- Cable: Minimum 10mm² or 16mm² 4-core armored copper cable (depending on distance).
Common Applications
- Tunnel Ventilation (short tunnels)
- Agricultural Sheds (Poultry, Livestock)
- Factory Roof Exhaust
- Mine Ventilation (Belt driven allows easy speed change)
- Large Warehouse Cooling
How to order one (Checklist):
To get an accurate quote from a supplier, provide these five data points:
"I need a V-Belt Driven, Low Pressure, 18.5kW fan.
- Airflow required: [e.g., 80,000 m³/h]
- Static Pressure: [e.g., 150 Pa]
- Voltage: [e.g., 415V, 3-Phase, 50Hz]
- Application: [e.g., General factory ventilation with 5-meter duct]
- Mounting: [e.g., Wall mounted or Floor mounted with stand]"
Warning: An 18.5 kW fan is heavy (typically >150 kg). Ensure your mounting structure (wall or floor) is reinforced to handle the dynamic load. Also, ensure you have a qualified electrician for the 3-phase connection.
