The annual EDS Leadership Summit is a time for collaboration, innovation, and, importantly, recognition. This year, we were thrilled to honor several key partners who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, growth, and performance throughout 2024. Their dedication is instrumental to our shared success, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all our deserving award recipients!

Distributor of the Year: Beyond Components

We are incredibly proud to announce Beyond Components as the recipient of our prestigious 2024 Distributor of the Year Award! This award is presented to the distributor with the highest percentage sales growth for the year. Our VP of Global Distribution, David Luna, had the honor of presenting this award to Lou Dinkel Sr., Marcus Liuzzi, and Lou Dinkel Jr. Beyond Components consistently goes above and beyond, setting a high standard for partnership and service. Congratulations to the entire team on this well-deserved recognition!

Whether it’s a critical piece of machinery overheating or a ventilation system failing to meet its requirements, improper fan selection can lead to significant issues. Beyond simply moving air, the right fan ensures efficiency, longevity, and optimal system function.

Surprisingly, the challenges often stem from a mismatch between the fan and the application’s specific needs. Simply choosing a fan based on size or perceived power is rarely effective. Understanding the key parameters and factors involved in fan selection allows for a tailored solution that maximizes performance.

Where Does Inefficient Airflow Originate?

Fan performance is assessed through various metrics, including airflow (volume) and static pressure (resistance). These measurements provide a quantifiable basis for evaluating a fan’s capabilities.

The sources of airflow inefficiency can be categorized into several key areas:

• Incorrect Fan Type: Using a fan with unsuitable characteristics for the application’s pressure and airflow demands.
• Inadequate Sizing: Choosing a fan that is too small or too large, leading to insufficient or excessive airflow.
• System Impedance: Obstructions or restrictions within the airflow path that create excessive static pressure.
• Improper Installation: Incorrect mounting, ducting, or placement that negatively impacts fan performance.

How to Select the Right Fan for Optimal Performance

Selecting the ideal fan is about matching performance to your application’s requirements. Here’s how you can achieve optimal airflow:

1. Determine Application Requirements: Understanding the required airflow and static pressure is paramount. Thoroughly analyze your system’s needs to accurately determine these parameters. This involves assessing the volume of air that needs to be moved (CFM – Cubic Feet per Minute) and the resistance (static pressure) that the fan will encounter from filters, grilles, ducts, or tightly packed components.
2. Evaluate Fan Performance Curves: Fan performance curves, like the PQ (Pressure-Quantity) curve, provide critical data on airflow and static pressure relationships. These curves illustrate a fan’s capabilities across its operating range. Use these curves to match fan capabilities to system requirements, ensuring the chosen fan can deliver the necessary airflow against the system’s resistance.
3. Consider Fan Type and Design: Different fan types are inherently suited for specific applications based on their airflow and static pressure characteristics. The primary types are axial and centrifugal fans:
   • Axial Fans:
     • How they work: Axial fans move air parallel to the fan’s axis of rotation. They typically have blades that resemble a propeller.
     • Characteristics: They excel at moving large volumes of air (high CFM) at relatively low static pressure. They are generally more compact and cost-effective for applications where there isn’t much resistance to airflow.
     • When to use: Ideal for general ventilation, cooling electronic enclosures with minimal obstructions, spot cooling, and applications where a large amount of air needs to be moved freely. Examples include cabinet cooling, exhaust fans, and some server cooling.
     • High Speed Importance: While axial fans can operate at high RPMs, their strength lies in volume. High speed in an axial fan is important when you need to move a significant amount of air quickly through a relatively open space. For instance, in a server rack with open airflow, a high-speed axial fan can rapidly exchange air, preventing heat buildup. However, if there’s significant resistance, increasing speed might not yield proportional airflow gains and could lead to increased noise and power consumption without effective cooling.
   • Centrifugal Fans (or Radial Fans/Blowers):
     • How they work: Centrifugal fans draw air into the center of the fan and then expel it perpendicularly (radially) to the fan’s axis of rotation. They use a rotating impeller to increase the kinetic energy of the air.
     • Characteristics: They are designed to move air against higher static pressure (resistance) while still providing good airflow. They are more effective in ducted systems or applications with filters, tight spaces, or other airflow obstructions. They are often quieter for a given static pressure than axial fans.
     • When to use: Best suited for applications requiring air to be pushed through restrictive pathways, such as cooling dense component arrays, forced air circulation in complex enclosures, or systems with filters and long duct runs. Examples include HVAC systems, industrial process cooling, and some high-density server racks where air must be pushed through narrow channels.
     • High Speed Importance: For centrifugal fans, high speed is crucial when the application demands overcoming significant static pressure. The faster rotation generates more pressure, allowing the fan to effectively push air through restrictive environments like a tightly packed heat sink or a long duct system. If your system has high impedance, a high-speed centrifugal fan is essential to maintain adequate airflow, as it can generate the necessary pressure to overcome the resistance.
   • Other Types (e.g., Blower Fans, Cross-Flow Fans): These are variations or specialized designs often falling under the axial or centrifugal principles, optimized for specific form factors or airflow patterns. Blower fans, for instance, are a type of centrifugal fan designed for compact spaces and often used in electronics. Cross-flow fans are long, cylindrical fans that provide a wide, even flow of air, often used in appliances.
4. Optimize Installation and System Design: Proper installation and system design can significantly impact fan performance. Minimize obstructions within the airflow path, ensure proper ducting (if applicable) that avoids sharp bends or unnecessary length, and optimize fan placement to prevent recirculation or “short-circuiting” of airflow. Even the best fan can underperform if the system it’s cooling is poorly designed.
5. Maintain and Monitor Fan Performance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning fan blades and ensuring unobstructed vents, is crucial for sustained fan performance. Monitoring fan speed (e.g., via tachometer output) and temperature within the system can help identify potential airflow inefficiencies early, preventing critical component failures. Implement a maintenance schedule to keep fans operating at peak efficiency.

The Bigger Picture: System Reliability and Efficiency

Selecting the right fan is not just about addressing immediate airflow needs; it’s about ensuring long-term system reliability and efficiency. A properly selected fan minimizes energy consumption by operating within its optimal efficiency range, reduces wear and tear on both the fan and the components it cools, and ultimately contributes to overall system longevity. By following a structured approach to fan selection, you can achieve optimal airflow and maximize system performance.

The next time you encounter airflow challenges, remember: proper fan selection is crucial for system efficiency. By understanding the key factors and using a data-driven approach, you can ensure optimal airflow and system performance.

Cooling fans are the unsung heroes of countless systems, from the desktop computer humming beside you to the complex machinery driving industries. They diligently work to dissipate heat, preventing overheating and ensuring optimal equipment performance and longevity. But like any crucial component, cooling fans require proper handling to function effectively and reliably. This guide will walk you through essential practices for handling your cooling fans, ensuring they keep everything running smoothly.

Understanding Your Cooling Fan: More Than Just Blades

Before we dive into handling, it’s helpful to understand the basics of your cooling fan. Just like a car has different performance characteristics, fans have their own specifications that dictate their capabilities. While you might not always need to delve into the intricacies of a PQ curve (which, as we discussed in a previous blog, details the relationship between airflow and pressure), understanding basic specifications is key:

• Size and Mounting: Ensure you’re using the correct size fan for the intended space and that the mounting mechanism is appropriate and secure.

• Voltage and Current: Always match the fan’s voltage and current requirements to the power source to avoid damage or malfunction.

• RPM (Rotations Per Minute): This indicates the fan’s speed and generally correlates with airflow.

• CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) or m³/h (Cubic Meters per Hour): This specifies the volume of air the fan can move in a given amount of time.

• Noise Level (dBA): Consider the noise generated by the fan, especially in noise-sensitive environments.

The Dos and Don’ts of Handling Cooling Fans

Proper handling starts from the moment you receive a new fan and continues throughout its operational life. Here are some crucial dos and don’ts:

The “Dos” of Handling Cooling Fans:

• Handle with Care: Cooling fans, especially those with delicate blades and internal components, should be handled gently. Avoid dropping or subjecting them to sudden impacts.

• Store Correctly: If fans are not immediately used, store them in a clean, dry, and dust-free environment, preferably in their original packaging or protective covers. Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of them.

• Mount Securely: Ensure the fan is mounted firmly and securely to prevent vibrations, noise, and potential damage. Use the correct screws or mounting hardware and ensure screws are not overtightened or to prevent damage to fans with plastic frames. Ensure that the fan frame is sealed completely against the panel or surface it is mounted to in order to avoid air leakage.

• Ensure Proper Airflow: When installing a fan, make sure there are unobstructed pathways for air to enter and exit. Blocked airflow can significantly reduce cooling efficiency, and put extra strain on the fan motor.

• Regularly Inspect: Periodically inspect your fans for dust buildup, loose screws, frayed wires, or any signs of damage. Addressing these issues early can prevent more significant problems.

• Clean Carefully: Dust accumulation is a common issue that reduces fan efficiency and can lead to overheating. Clean fan blades and housings gently using compressed air, a soft brush, or a slightly damp cloth (ensure the fan is powered off and disconnected before cleaning with a damp cloth).

• Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation, operation, and maintenance. They provide specific instructions tailored to their products.  

• Ensure Proper Ventilation: The environment where the fan operates should have adequate external ventilation to allow for effective heat dissipation. A fan recirculating captive hot air won’t be efficient at providing cooling.

• Use Appropriate Tools: When installing or maintaining fans, use the correct tools to avoid damaging components.

The “Don’ts” of Handling Cooling Fans:

• Don’t Carry it by the Wire Leads: The wire leads of a fan are designed for electrical connection only and damage can result from carrying a fan by its wire leads.

• Don’t Force Connections: Never force electrical connections or mounting hardware. If something doesn’t fit easily, double-check the compatibility and orientation.

• Don’t Overload: Ensure the fan is operating within its specified voltage and current limits. Overloading can damage the motor and potentially create a safety hazard.

• Don’t Operate in Extreme Conditions: Avoid operating fans in environments outside their specified temperature and environmental conditions unless they are designed for such conditions.

• Don’t Ignore Unusual Noises or Vibrations: Strange noises or excessive vibrations can indicate a problem. Investigate the cause and address it promptly. Continuing to run a faulty fan can lead to further damage or failure.

• Don’t Tamper with Internal Components: Unless you are a qualified technician, avoid disassembling or tampering with the internal components of the fan. Some fans cannot be re-assembled if taken apart.

• Don’t Use Damaged Fans: If a fan shows signs of physical damage (cracked blades, broken housing, frayed wires), do not use it. Replace it immediately to prevent further issues or safety hazards.

• Don’t Submerge in Liquids: Unless the fan is specifically designed for submersion (IP68), avoid exposing it to liquids.

• Don’t Stop Blades Manually: Avoid trying to stop the fan blades with your fingers or objects while it’s running. This can damage the blades, the motor, and potentially cause injury.

• Don’t Neglect Maintenance: Ignoring regular cleaning and inspection can lead to decreased performance and premature failure. Be mindful to only clean with non-toxic chemicals to avoid damaging the fan components.

Extending the Lifespan of Your Cooling Fans

By following these handling guidelines, you can significantly extend the lifespan and maintain the optimal performance of your cooling fans. Proper care ensures they continue to do their vital job of keeping your systems cool and running efficiently for years to come. Remember, a little attention goes a long way in ensuring the longevity and reliability of these crucial components.

Understanding the PQ Curve: A Critical Metric for Fan Performance

When selecting a fan for any engineering system, simply knowing its size and RPM is not enough. The true indicator of performance lies in the PQ curve, a fundamental tool that illustrates how a fan behaves under varying operating conditions. For system designers and engineers understanding and interpreting this curve is essential for achieving optimal system performance.

What is a PQ Curve?

The PQ curve (Pressure-Quantity curve) is a graphical representation of a fan’s operating characteristics. It plots the relationship between static pressure and airflow rate.

Static Pressure (P) – The resistance the fan must overcome to move air through a system, typically expressed in Pascals (Pa) or inches of water column (inH₂O).

Airflow Rate (Q) – The volumetric flow rate of air delivered by the fan, commonly measured in cubic meters per hour (m³/h) or cubic feet per minute (CFM).

The PQ curve illustrates the inverse relationship between airflow rate and static pressure. As static pressure increases, due to obstructions, longer duct runs, or clogged filters the fan must expend more energy overcoming this resistance. Consequently, less energy is available to maintain volumetric flow, causing a reduction in airflow. This trade-off is fundamental to fan operation: higher resistance environments limit a fan’s ability to move air effectively, which directly impacts cooling performance and overall system efficiency. If air can’t flow, then cooling will not be achieved.

Why the PQ Curve is Indispensable

Understanding a fan’s PQ curve provides actionable insights that go beyond basic specification matching. It empowers engineers and system designers to optimize performance, energy use, and long-term reliability. Key benefits include:

1. Fan-to-Application Matching
Every application, whether it’s ventilation in a cleanroom, cooling in a server enclosure, or exhaust in an industrial process, has its own system resistance profile, typically expressed as a system curve (a plot of pressure loss vs. airflow). By overlaying the system curve with a fan’s PQ curve, designers can identify the operating point, where fan performance intersects system demand. This ensures:

• The fan operates within a stable and efficient region.
• There’s minimal risk of over- or under-sizing, which can lead to issues such as excessive power consumption, noise, vibration, or insufficient airflow.
• System startup and operational conditions (like dirty filters or damper changes) are considered during fan selection.

With over 40 years of experience in thermal management, Orion Fans continues to focus on broad product availability and stock resilience. Luna highlighted: “We doubled up our inventory before COVID and continued that strategy. It helps us sidestep issues caused by geopolitical pressures, such as tariffs.”

By maintaining local stock of high-demand products, the company ensured consistent supply and supported distributor reliability.

Orion’s product portfolio spans AC and DC fans, motorized impellers, and custom assemblies. Growth areas include electronically commutated (EC) fans – sought after for their energy efficiency – and harsh environment products with IP68 and IP69K ratings, used in sectors such as EV charging. The company also saw rising interest in explosion-proof, ATEX-rated fans, where Luna noted a gap in market focus.

Turning to Io Audio Technologies, Luna explained the brand was established in 2018 to provide complete cable assemblies rather than just connectors. This full-solution approach set Io apart from competitors, allowing for customization and value-added service across cable lengths and configurations. Initially targeting the Pro AV and broadcast markets, Io has since expanded into medical, vertical farming, and even aerospace applications.

On geopolitical pressures and tariffs, Luna underscored the importance of vigilance. The company President, who monitors global developments closely, ensures Orion and Io stay agile on supply chain, currency valuations, and import costs.

Luna stressed the importance of planning, as even goods in transit may be subject to new tariffs.

Looking ahead, Luna’s key priorities include promoting newly launched products tailored for harsh environments and supporting distributors in gradually building stock and awareness.

“We want them to grow stock naturally, based on market demand – not just push product into their systems.”

In a shifting global landscape, Orion Fans and Io Audio Technologies are focused on responsive inventory, product innovation, and grounded partnerships to build resilient distribution channels.

See the original Electronic Specifier post here.

In industries where flammable gases, vapors, or dusts are present, ensuring that electrical equipment won’t become an ignition source is critical. The UL 60079 series of standards addresses this need by establishing rigorous safety requirements for equipment used in explosive atmospheres.

What Is UL 60079?

UL 60079 is the U.S. implementation of the internationally harmonized IEC 60079 series, which defines the requirements for electrical and electronic equipment used in hazardous (classified) locations. These environments, also called explosive atmospheres, are commonly found in:

• Oil and gas facilities
  

• Chemical plants
  

• Mining operations
  

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing
  

• Food processing and storage
  

• Battery and energy storage systems
  

The UL version is published by UL Standards & Engagement, aligning with U.S. National Electrical Code (NEC) classifications, particularly Class I, II, III Divisions and Zones.

The Hidden Culprit Behind Fan Noise—and How to Silence It

Imagine you’re sitting in your office, trying to focus, but an incessant hum fills the air. It’s the cooling fan in your computer, spinning relentlessly, disrupting the quiet. Or perhaps you’re in an industrial setting, where the roar of ventilation systems makes conversations a challenge. Fan noise is more than just an annoyance—it can signal inefficiencies that impact performance and comfort.

Surprisingly, much of what we perceive as “fan noise” isn’t coming from the fan itself. More often, it’s the result of airflow obstructions, causing turbulence that amplifies sound. Understanding the sources of this noise and learning how to minimize it can transform a noisy environment into one of efficiency and tranquility.

Where Does Fan Noise Come From?

Fan noise is measured in A-weighted decibels (dB(A)), a unit that accounts for how the human ear perceives different sound frequencies. Our ears are more sensitive to mid-range frequencies, making this measurement an industry standard for assessing noise levels.

The sources of fan noise can be broken down into four main categories:

1. Aerodynamic Noise – As air moves across fan blades, it creates turbulence. Poor blade design or high-speed operation can exacerbate this effect, making the fan sound louder than it needs to be.

2. Mechanical Noise – Bearings, motors, and even the mounting structures can create vibrations that generate additional sound.

3. Electrical Noise – Some fans, especially AC-powered models, produce an audible hum or buzz due to variations in motor current and electromagnetic interference.

4. Obstruction & Resonance – When airflow encounters obstacles—such as nearby objects, enclosures, or improper installation—it leads to increased turbulence and noise.

How to Reduce Fan Noise Without Sacrificing Performance

Reducing fan noise isn’t just about making an environment quieter; it’s about optimizing performance. Here’s how you can achieve both:

1. Choose the Right Fan
   Bigger can be better. A larger fan running at a lower speed moves the same amount of air as a smaller, high-speed fan—but with significantly less noise. If size isn’t a constraint, opting for a larger fan can be an easy solution.

2. Use Smart Speed Control with PWM
   Instead of running at full speed all the time, Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) or thermal speed control adjusts fan speed based on temperature. This dynamic adjustment reduces unnecessary noise during periods of lower heat output. (This feature is available in our DC and EC models)

3. Dampen Vibrations
   Vibrations can turn a relatively quiet fan into a noisy distraction. Rubberized mounts, shock-absorbing materials, or rubber fan isolators can help absorb vibrations and minimize sound transfer.

4. Keep It Clean
   Dust and debris buildup can make fans work harder, creating more noise over time. Regular cleaning of fan blades, air passages, and filters ensures smooth operation and quieter performance.

5. Rethink Placement and Enclosure Design
   The way a fan is installed can make a huge difference. Minimizing obstructions, ensuring proper ventilation, and strategically placing fans within an enclosure can help reduce turbulence. Additionally, lining the enclosure interior with sound-absorbing materials like foam or fiberglass, increasing enclosure thickness, and sealing gaps can prevent noise from escaping.

The Bigger Picture: Efficiency and Longevity

Reducing fan noise isn’t just about creating a more comfortable environment—it’s about enhancing system efficiency and longevity. A quieter fan runs more smoothly, encounters less stress, and operates more effectively over time. By selecting the right fan, implementing noise-reducing technologies, and following proper installation practices, you can achieve a balance between performance and quiet operation.

The next time you hear the relentless whir of a cooling system, remember: fan noise isn’t inevitable. With the right approach, you can turn down the volume and turn up the efficiency.