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Fiberglass (FRP) Fans
When it comes to corrosive applications, there are a few options available, but fiberglass reinforced plastic fans or FRP fans are a common solution.
Fiberglass, also referred to as FRP (fiber-reinforced plastic), is a composite material made of a polymer matrix reinforced with glass fibers.
The corrosion-resistant properties of fiberglass are wide ranging and suitable for use across the ph scale. In addition to its corrosive properties, FRP provides a lighter and more cost-effective alternative to its metal counterparts.
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FRP fans and blowers come in all of the most common types, such as axial, centrifugal, radial, pressure blowers, etc.
They can be used for general ventilation or incorporated into process ventilation. With the standard general-purpose resin, a fiberglass fan can be used with a wide range of chemicals, but in extreme cases, other resins and coatings can be used to improve the construction and duty point.
The applications are endless.
There are, however, limiting factors to consider, such as temperature and abrasion. A fiberglass fan can only work at moderate temperatures, which can change depending on what chemicals are in the airstream. These temperatures can vary from just below 100°F to just above 200°F.
These fans are also limited to gaseous airstreams and do not hold up well against airstreams that contain solids or anything that could be deemed abrasive.
Fiberglass fans made of a plastic composite are best for getting rid of corrosive gasses and mists in the air, which are common in some applications.
Corrosive gasses and mists in toxic environments cause ventilation equipment to wear out and get damaged faster, which causes the equipment to break down sooner.
The use of FRP ventilation equipment in corrosive environments provides a safe solution that will operate for a long time.
Corrosive environments contain gasses and compounds such as:
- Ammonia
- Hydrochloric acid
- Chlorine
- Nitrogen oxide
- Hydrogen sulfide
These compounds do not damage fiberglass fans.
Benefits of FRP Fans
- Produced with corrosion resistant materials that are designed to withstand the most severe production environments.
- Production fans are tested & balanced to ensure reliability.
- Motor and blade match to deliver consistent, dependable air flow with a wide range of static pressure ratings.
Difference between FRP, PVC & PP
In addition to fiberglass, there are a couple of other plastic composite options to consider for corrosive applications.
PP (polypropylene) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Your decision will be based on the severity of the application.
The most severe applications are best suited for FRP, or fiberglass-reinforced reinforced plastic. FRP can handle the highest temperatures, the highest pressures, and the widest variety of contaminants of all the options.
FRP will also be the strongest construction as it includes layers of fibers within the construction, creating strength.
PVC is another great option for corrosive applications. These fans are suited for many of the same applications as FRP but will be limited by pressures, environments, and temperatures.
PP (Polypropylene) is also a great option for corrosive-duty applications. These fans are suited for many of the same applications as FRP but will be limited by size, air volume, pressures, environment, and temperature.
Several factors determine which plastic composite should be used, which include:
- Temperature
- Airstream constituents
- Particulate matter
Because of the things listed above, FRP is the most common material used and the most common material made. The PVC and PP materials are used less often.
Where there are destructive airstreams and particulate matter that cause corrosion to equipment, a plastic fan is imperative for the longevity of industrial fans.
Therefore, FRP is applied to industrial fans in order to benefit from:
- Reliability
- Low noise
- Low weight
- Maximum protection in an aggressive environment or air stream
- Economical
- Easy to maintain
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Types of Axial Fiberglass Fans
- Wall Panel Fan
- Duct Fan
- Bifurcated Duct Axial Fan
- Duct Axial Fan
How are FRP Axial Fans Constructed?
The axial fans are fitted with fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP).
The fan is then coated with a resin that is fire retardant. The components, such as the bearings, drives, and fan shaft, are protected from corrosion in a couple of ways.
Some styles will use an airtight enclosure while others will draw fresh air from outside the fan across the components. This ensures that corrosive fumes are not able to reach the moving components.
A gasketed access panel can be added so that the internal parts can be inspected and maintained. To prevent fumes from escaping the drive opening, a shaft seal is applied to the opening around the shaft.
Several considerations are made in order to reduce maintenance. The most important is bearing lubrication, which is served by lubrication lines that run to the exterior fan housing.
Another is properly sizing the shaft and bearings for performance and speed. This is performed to increase the fan’s lifecycle as well as reduce maintenance. To isolate the motor from the airstream, the motor is placed outside of the airstream on an adaptable epoxy-coated steel base.
Fiberglass Fan Accessories
In addition to fiberglass fans, additional components are available for FRP, PVC, and PP fans.
Depending on the environment, a trained specialist can help figure out which accessories and fiberglass materials will work best.
Fiberglass Fan Applications
- Acid Scrubbers
- Ammonia Scrubbers
- Plating Scrubbers
- Pickling Lines
- Lift Stations
- Pump Stations
- Chemical Processes
- Sulfuric Acid Exhaust
- Chlorine Scrubber Exhaust
- Wastewater Treatment Plants
- Analytical Laboratories
- Battery Manufacturing
- Pharmaceutical Laboratories
- Battery Manufacturing
- Pulp and Paper Mills
- Chemical Plants
- Metal Finishing
- Lab Hood Exhaust
- Electroplating
- Precious metal recovery
- Fume Scrubbers
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At R. Williamson & Associates we are here to help you select the perfect equipment for your application. More than 50 years of experience with Hartzell Fans makes us your best option for a customized fiberglass fan.
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