Amca 801-01 (R2008) PDF

AMCA
Publication 801-01
(R2008)
Industrial Process/Power Generation

Fans: Specification Guidelines
AIR MOVEMENT AND CONTROL

ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL, INC.
The International Authority on Air System Components
Licensed to ESS Customer. ANSI store order # 123. Downloaded 4/3/2018 6:55 PM. Single user license only. Copying and networking prohibited.
AMCA PUBLICATION 801-01 (R2007)
Industrial Process/Power Generation Fans:

Specification Guidelines
Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc.

30 West University Drive
Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893
© 2008 by Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc.
All rights reserved. Reproduction or translation of any part of this work beyond that permitted by Sections 107 and
108 of the United States Copyright Act without the permission of the copyright owner is unlawful. Requests for
permission or further information should be addressed to the Executive Director, Air Movement and Control
Association International, Inc. at 30 West University Drive, Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.
Authority
AMCA Publication 801-01 was adopted by the membership of the Air Movement and Control Association
International, Inc. on January 14, 2001. It was reaffirmed on May 4, 2008.
AMCA 801 Review Committee
Maxson S. Clarke, Chair Greenheck Fan Corporation
James T. Greenzweig ABB Fan Group North America
Steve Pence Loren Cook Company
Don Phelps Phelps Fan, Inc.
George Johnston TLT-Babcock, Inc.
Govind Shah Twin City Fan Companies, Ltd.
Paul R. Saxon AMCA International Staff
Disclaimer
AMCA uses its best efforts to produce standards for the benefit of the industry and the public in light of available
information and accepted industry practices. However, AMCA does not guarantee, certify or assure the safety or
performance of any products, components or systems tested, designed, installed or operated in accordance with
AMCA standards or that any tests conducted under its standards will be non-hazardous or free from risk.
Objections to AMCA Standards and Certifications Programs
Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc. will consider and decide all written complaints regarding
its standards, certification programs, or interpretations thereof. For information on procedures for submitting and
handling complaints, write to:
Air Movement and Control Association International

Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.
or
AMCA International, Incorporated

c/o Federation of Environmental Trade Associations
2 Waltham Court, Milley Lane, Hare Hatch
Reading, Berkshire
RG10 9TH United Kingdom
RELATED AMCA STANDARDS
For Air Performance:
ANSI/AMCA Standard 210 Laboratory Method of Testing Fans for Aerodynamic Performance Rating
AMCA Standard 803 Industrial Process/Power Generation Fans: Site Performance Test Standard
For Sound:
AMCA Standard 300 Reverberant Room Method for Sound Testing of Fans
AMCA Standard 301 Methods for Calculating Fan Sound Ratings from Laboratory Test Data
For Balance and Vibration:
ANSI/AMCA Standard 204 Balance Quality and Vibration Levels for Fans
Industrial Process / Power Generation Series:
AMCA Publication 801 Industrial Process/Power Generation Fans: Specification Guidelines
AMCA Publication 802 Industrial Process/Power Generation Fans: Establishing Performance Using
Laboratory Models
AMCA Standard 803 Industrial Process/Power Generation Fans: Site Performance Test Standard
Fan Application Manual:
AMCA Publication 200 Air Systems
AMCA Publication 201 Fans and Systems
AMCA Publication 202 Troubleshooting
AMCA Publication 203 Field Performance Measurement of Fan Systems
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
2. Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
3. Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
3.1 Rating criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
3.2 Design criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
3.3 Special features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
3.4 Sound criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
4. Testing and Rating Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
4.1 Laboratory test method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
4.2 Effects of appurtenances on fan performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
4.3 Scaling effects and fan laws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
4.4 Rating tolerances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
4.5 Performance testing techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
4.6 Mechanical tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
5. Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
5.1 Single fan operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
5.2 Parallel fan operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
5.3 Balance and vibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
5.4 Duct vibrations and pulsations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
5.5 Implosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
6. Erosion, Corrosion and Build-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
6.1 Erosion/corrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
6.2 Build-up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
7. Leakage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
7.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
7.2 Locations of leakage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
7.3 Shaft seals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
7.4 Designing for low leakage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
7.5 Verifying leakage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
7.6 Associated issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
8. Fan Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
8.1 Applicable sound publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
8.2 Acoustical terminology and symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
8.3 Laboratory test methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
8.4 Sound power level conversion methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
8.5 Prediction of on-site sound pressure levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
8.6 Measurement of on-site sound pressure levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
8.7 Methods of sound attenuation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
9. Motor Sizing Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
9.1 Motor capability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
9.2 Aerodynamic considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
9.3 Mechanical considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
10. Quality Assurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
10.1 quality assurance manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
10.2 quality assurance department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
11. Spare Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
12. Storage or Long Shutdowns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
13. Analyses Available for Fans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
13.1 Analysis of the fan impeller only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
13.2 Analysis of the fan rotor and supporting structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
14. Information Necessary to Properly Select a Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
14.1 General information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
14.2 Performance requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
14.3 Construction and special requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
14.4 Sound requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
14.5 Test requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
14.6 Quality assurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
14.7 Spare parts requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
14.8 Storage requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
15. Information Necessary to Properly Evaluate a Fan Proposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
15.1 Fan rating practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
15.2 Recommended fan proposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
15.3 Dimensional information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
15.4 Typical amca configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
15.5 Economic evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
INDEX BY FAN APPLICATION

The following is a list of common industrial fan applications that includes types of fans typically employed, major
design considerations, and corresponding sections of this document. Users of this publication can employ this
table as a guideline for specific applications as well as an index to related topics.
KEY TO FAN TYPES:

AF = airfoil
BC = backward curved
BI = backward inclined
FC = forward curved
PW = paddle wheel
RT = radial tip
VA = vaneaxial
INDUSTRIAL PROCESS FANS
Application Typical Usual Major Applicable

Fan Employed Consideration 801 Section
A. CLEAN AIR, BI/BC Sound 4.2.8; 8 (all)

SUPPLY, and AF Efficiency 5 (all)
GENERAL VA Means of control 4.2.2-5
VENTILATION FC Indoor, outdoor
Radial blade
B. CONVEYING Radial blade Durability-impact on

MATERIAL PW impeller, shaft, bearings 3.2 (all)
Capture velocities,
Entrainment velocity,
Equivalent density,
(includes material
conveyed) 3.1.9-10
Wear 3.3.6-12; 4.2.7;
6 (all)
Build up 6 (all); esp. 6.2
Leakage from housing
& around shaft 3.3.3; 7 (all)
C. HOT GAS All Spark resistance,

RECIRCULATION dependent upon material
"DRYERS" Temperature 3.2.13; 3.3.2
<540°C (1000°F) Rate of temperature change 3.2.13; 3.3.2
Sealing and leakage 3.3.3; 7 (all)
Bearing cooling
& lubrication
Insulation
Durability
Method of support
& materials of
construction 3.3.2; 7.3.8;
7.6.4
8
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)

D. GENERAL All Wear 3.3.6-12;

EXHAUST 4.2.7; 6 (all)
HOODS Corrosion 6 (all)
Sealing 7 (all)
Noise 4.2.8; 8 (all)
Temperature 3.2.13; 3.3.2
Toxicity 6.1
E. CORROSIVE All Corrosion 6.1

FUME/GAS/ODOR Seal 3.3.3; 7.3
CONTROL Material 6.1-2
Paint
Coatings
Spark resistance 7.6.1
Explosion resistance
Air density 3.1.9-10
High tip speed
Noise 8 (all)
Build-up 6.2
F. AIR CLEANING AF, BI/BC Air density 3.1.9-10

SCRUBBER (clean air) High tip speed
BOOSTER FAN RT, PW Noise 8 (all)
BAG HOUSE FAN (dirty gas) Build-up 6.2
High pressure
Wear & corrosion 3.3.6-12; 6.1
G. PELLETIZING/ BI/BC (limited appl.) Wear (severe) 3.3.6-12; 6.1

SINTERING Radial blade High temperature 3.2.13
RT Rate of temperature change 3.2.13
VA (sinter cooling) Build up 6.2
Vibration 3.2.11
9
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)

H. MINING AND VA Efficiency

TUNNEL AF Sound 4.2.8; 8 (all)
BI/BC Reliability
Flow reversal
Explosion resistance
Spark resistance 7.6.1
Corrosion 6.1
Wear 3.3.6-12; 6.2
Mine safety & government reg.
I. EXPLOSIVE All Spark resistance 7.6.1

GAS Explosion doors
and protection
Leakage-housing & shaft 7.1-5
Corrosion 6.1
J. INCINERATION Radial blade Air composition

BI/BC Wear 3.3.6-12; 4.2.7; 6.1
AF Toxic gas
(Depends on High Temperature 3.2.13; 3.3.2
material being Rate of temperature change 3.2.13; 3.3.2
burned) Sound (residential areas) 4.2.8; 8 (all)
High tip speed
construction
Leakage 7.1-7.6
Sealing 7.1-7.6
Reliability
K. BASIC OXYGEN Radial blade Non-surge & stability

(System operates BI/BC over range of operation 5 (all)
at shut off and Gas tightness 7.1-7.6
periodically goes High tip speed
to full flow) construction
Starts and stops 9.3.6
Wear (water erosion) 3.3.6-12; 4.2.7; 6.1
Build up 6.2
Corrosion 6.1
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AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
Industrial Process Fans

L. HOT GAS All Duty cycle

EXHAUST Build up 6.2
(Coal Drying Kiln) Wear 3.3.6-12; 4.2.7; 6.1
High temperature 3.2.13; 3.3.2
Rate of temperature change 3.2.13; 3.3.2
M. HIGH Radial blade High tip speed

PRESSURE BI/BC construction
BLOWERS AF Bearing thrust &
(Combustion air) max. bearing speed 3.3.5
Leakage and seals 7.1-6
Air Dynamics: Mach number,
compressibility, regain, noise
Stability-turn down ratio 5 (all)
N. HIGH All Thermal expansion 3.2.13; 3.3.2

TEMPERATURE Structural integrity
FANS >540°C Bearings-cooling
(1000°F) & lubrication 3.3.5
Materials of construction
Insulation
Corrosion 6.1
O. BRAKE FAN BI/BC (running High power

(Power backwards) (for volume and pressure)
absorption fan) FC
Absorb power in
spillways, etc. when
dropping gates.
P. FOOD & AF Super smooth finish 7.6.2

TEXTILE BI/BC Stainless construction
(Smooth Radial blade
finish fan)
11
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
POWER GENERATION FANS

A. FORCED DRAFT AF Efficiency &

(FD) BI/BC operating point 3.1.13-16
1. Supplies FC Means of control-
combustion VA turndown & leakage 4.2
air to a boiler Indoor/outdoor operation 9.3.6
2. Provides excess air Sound 8.4.2.8
for complete Reliability (mechanical) 3.2 (all); 13 (all)
combustion. Stress analysis &
3. Overcomes losses structural specs 3.2 (all); 13 (all)
from fan to Quality assurance programs 10; (all)
balance draft point
in boiler.
B. INDUCED AF Same as FD + See A, above, plus:

DRAFT (ID) BI/BC Air analysis & density 3.1.9-10
1. Exhausts FC Corrosion 6 (all)
products VA Wear 3.3.6-12; 4.2.7;
of combustion RT 6 (all)
2. Exhausts excess air Turning gear 3.3.1
3. Provides necessary Maximum temperature 3.2.13; 3.3.2
draft at fire and overcomes Rate of temperature change 3.2.13; 3.3.2
losses to the end of the Leakage-housing & seals 3.3.3; 7 (all)
system minus any Means of support for
natural draft. thermal expansion 3.3.2; 7.6.4; 9.3.8
C. PRIMARY AIR AF Same as FD + See A, above, plus:

HOT BI/BC Temperature 3.2.13
1. Transports Radial blade Wear 6 (all)
powdered fuel Leakage-housing & seals 7 (all)
from pulverizer
to burner.
2. Provides some
combustion air.
3. Makes up for some
leakage out of the boiler.
4. Takes air after air
heater and fan
overcomes losses in
transporting fuel
plus air losses
minus energy from
the FD fan.
COLD
1. Air is taken from VA
ambient sources.
2. See HOT #1 through #3 above.
12
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)

D. FLUIDIZED AF Very high pressure 5 (all)

BED BOILER BI/BC High stress 3.2 (all)
1. Provides some Radial blade High fixed resistance 5 (all)
combustion air.
2. Floats bed
E. GAS AF Same as I.D. + See B, above, plus:

RECIRCULATION BI/BC Shut off pressure
1. Redirects boiler RT considerations 5 (all)
gases increasing Leakage-housing & seals 3.3.3; 7 (all)
mass flow through
various parts of
the furnace, super-
heaters, reheaters,
economizers.
2. Tempers hot gases
in the boiler to
1040°C (1900°F).
3. Overcomes losses
though boiler passages
& the recirculation
ductwork.
F. OVERFIRE AIR AF Same as FD See A, above

1. Delivers air BI/BC
over the fire to
improve combustion
and reduce smoking.
2. Reduced FD
requirements,
overcomes piping
losses and provides
turbulent mixing action.
13
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)

G. FLUE GAS Same as ID fan Same as ID but at Same as B, above

DESULFURIZATION lower temperature
(FGD) BOOSTER
In series with ID fan
to provide added
pressure capability to
overcome air pollution
devices in retrofit application.
H. INDIRECT REHEAT Same as FD Same as FD Same as A, above.

Adds clean heated
air to system
I. SECONDARY AIR Same as FD Same as FD Same as A, above

Provides additional
combustion air
J. CYCLONE Same as FD Same as FD Same as A, above

BURNER
Provides combustion
air plus energy to
produce cyclonic
action in burner and
furnace.
K. SEAL AIR AF, BI/BC Same as FD Similar to those

1. Provides clean listed under A
air to chamber
surrounding furnace
2. Creates pressure
large enough to pre-
vent the escape of
dirty gas from the
furnace and any
auxiliary (dampers, etc.)
L. WASTE Same as ID Build up 6 (all)

ENERGY FAN Clogging of parts
1. Takes hot gases
including waste
from waste heat
boiler.
14
AMCA INTERNATIONAL, INC. AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
Industrial Process/Power openings may or may not have elements for

connection to ductwork. A fan may have various
Generation Fans: appurtenances that affect aerodynamic performance.
It is necessary to establish which appurtenances are
Specification Guidelines to be considered part of the fan.
1. Purpose 3.1.2 Fan inlet. The plane perpendicular to the

airstream where it first meets the inlet cone, the inlet
The purpose of this publication is to familiarize the box or other appurtenances furnished by the fan
reader with the practices fan manufacturers follow in manufacturer. In this publication, the fan inlet is
the specification of fan equipment, and to provide indicated by "Plane 1". (See Figures 15.4 and 15.5.)
application information. Good communication will be
ensured if recommendations given herein are 3.1.3 Fan outlet. The plane perpendicular to the
followed. airstream at the outlet opening of the fan, the outlet
opening at the evasé or diffuser or other
There are numerous fan manufacturers supplying appurtenances furnished by the fan manufacturer. In
equipment to industry throughout the world. Due to this publication, the fan outlet is indicated by "Plane
differences in rating and proposal practices among 2". (See Figures 15.4 and 15.5.)
fan manufacturers, it is vitally important that the
consulting engineer, system designer, and the user 3.1.4 Air. A mixture of gases; also, a term commonly
thoroughly understand all fan-related concepts. used to denote any gaseous medium measured,
Conversely, it is the responsibility of the fan moved or controlled and which may include solid or
manufacturers to explain these practices and, if liquid particulate.
possible, develop a common method of presenting
information that will aid in making a proper equipment 3.1.5 Fan airflow rate. The volumetric airflow rate at
evaluation. This will ensure a more systematic fan air density at the fan inlet.
approach to the testing, rating, specification, and
construction of industrial process and power 3.1.6 Total pressure. The air pressure that exists by
generation fans. virtue of the degree of compression and the rate of
motion. It is the algebraic sum of the velocity
2. Scope pressure and the static pressure at a point.
This publication provides information on testing and 3.1.7 Velocity pressure. The portion of the air
rating industrial process and power generation fans, pressure that exists by virtue of the rate of motion
and covers construction features and related only. It is always positive.
appurtenances. Sample equipment specifications are
included which outline information a fan 3.1.8 Static pressure. The portion of the air pressure
manufacturer requires to select the best fan for an that exists by virtue of the degree of compression
application. Common fan industry practices are also only. It may be positive or negative relative to the
defined and explained. ambient atmospheric pressure.
3. Terminology 3.1.9 Fan pressure relationships and

interpretations. The definitions of total pressure,
The following list of terms and their related symbols velocity pressure, and static pressure are presented
will be applied to testing, rating, specifications, and in Sections 3.1.6 to 3.1.8. However, when applying
construction of industrial process and power these definitions to fan performance, there are
generation fans. To avoid confusion and distinct relationships that exist between each
misunderstanding, this terminology should be used. variable. This section describes these relationships.
3.1.9.1 Fan total pressure (Pt). The difference

3.1 Rating criteria
between the total pressure at the fan outlet and the
3.1.1 Fan. A fan is a device that utilizes a power- total pressure at the fan inlet.
driven rotating impeller for moving air and has at
least one inlet opening and one outlet opening. The Pt = Pt2 - Pt1
1
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
3.1.9.2 Fan velocity pressure (Pv). The pressure 3.1.12 Motor power. The power delivered from the
corresponding to the average velocity at the fan output shaft of the motor.
outlet area.
3.1.13 Fan shaft power. The power delivered to the
Pv = Pv2 input end of the fan shaft and does not include any
drive losses other than the fan bearings.
3.1.9.3 Fan static pressure (Ps). The difference
between the fan total pressure and the fan velocity 3.1.14 Maximum continuous rating (MCR) or
pressure. Therefore, the fan static pressure is the operating point. The performance point at which the
difference between the static pressure at the fan fan is normally expected to operate.
outlet and the total pressure at the fan inlet.
3.1.15 Test block (TB) or design point. That
Ps = Pt - Pv maximum performance point that establishes the fan
= Pt2 - Pt1 - Pv2 selection.
= (Ps2 + Pv2) - Pt1 - Pv2
3.1.16 Appurtenances. Accessories added to a fan
= Ps2 - Pt1
for purposes of control, isolation, safety, static
pressure regain, etc. Accessories common to fans
3.1.9.4 Fan static pressure rise (ΔPs). The static include inlet boxes, inlet vanes, dampers, guards,
pressure at the fan outlet minus the static pressure at motors and drives, evasés, and the like.
the fan inlet. Fan static pressure rise is often
mistaken for fan static pressure. 3.1.17 Surge limit or stall limit. The surge limit of a
centrifugal fan is that point near the peak of the
ΔPs = Ps2 - Ps1 pressure curve that corresponds to the minimum
airflow rate at which the fan can be operated without
It can be shown that the difference between fan static instability. The stall limit of an axial fan is that point
pressure and static pressure rise is the inlet velocity near the peak of the pressure curve at a particular
pressure. blade angle that corresponds to the minimum airflow
rate at which the fan may be operated without
separation of airflow over the blades. A fan must not
ΔPs - Ps = (Ps2 - Ps1) - (Ps2 - Pt1) be operated in the surge or stall region, otherwise
= Ps2 - Ps1 - Ps2 + Ps1 + Pv1 serious damage can occur to the fan or ductwork.
= Pv1
3.2 Design criteria
3.1.9.5 Illustration of fan pressure relationships.
Fan pressure relationships are illustrated in Figure There are a number of frequently used terms in the
3.1 for a fan with both inlet and outlet ducts. As can fan industry that may have special meanings unique
be seen, there is a distinct difference between static to that industry. The following terminology is often
pressure rise and fan static pressure as defined by encountered in fan specifications:
ANSI/AMCA 210. It should also be noted that there
is a distinct difference between an entrance loss and 3.2.1 Natural frequency. The natural frequency of a
the acceleration energy when using static pressure structural member or system is the frequency at
nomenclature. Total pressure nomenclature should which it will tend to vibrate once it has been set into
be used when discussing fan aerodynamic motion. A structure can possess many natural
performance; however, from past practice, static frequencies, each of which is associated with a mode
pressure terminology is still used. It is most important shape of deformation. Natural frequency is normally
to recognize the interdependence between total expressed in cycles per second (Hertz).
and static pressures in a typical system.
3.2.2 First critical speed. That fan rotational speed
3.1.10 Air density. The mass per unit volume of the that coincides with the lowest fundamental natural
air being handled. frequency of the fan shaft in bending, when the shaft
is mounted in the impeller and is assumed to be
3.1.11 Fan air density. The density of the air at the supported on infinitely stiff supports at the bearing
fan inlet. It is a function of the total pressure, locations.
temperature, and composition of the air. The fan air
density affects the aerodynamic performance of a fan First Critical speed is normally used to provide an
as outlined by the compressible fan laws contained in assessment of the adequacy of the shaft stiffness.
this publication. Any effects due to gyroscopic stiffening must be
2
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
INLET DUCT FAN OUTLET DUCT
CUSTOMER FAN MFR. CUSTOMER
FAN OUTLET
FAN INLET
+ +
P
Pv
t2
Pvi
Pv
P
Pt
s2 AMBIENT
Ps
0 0 ATMOSPHERIC
PRESSURE
Pti
∆Ps
1
2 Ps
Pvi
i
1. ENTRANCE LOSS
2. ACCELERATION ENERGY
Figure 3.1 - Interpretation of Fan Pressures for Rating Purposes
agreed upon between the customer and the fan customer's responsibility to ensure the foundation
manufacturer. meets the criteria used for the calculation.
3.2.3 Design resonant speed. That rotational speed 3.2.5 Foundation stiffness. Generally assumed to
which coincides with the lowest fundamental natural be the lateral spring constant of the foundation when
frequency of the fan shaft in bending when the shaft referred to the bearing centerline. This stiffness
is mounted in the impeller and the stiffness of the includes the effect of the foundation block, the sub-
bearing oil film, bearing housing, and bearing support soil beneath it, piles (if any), the concrete piers
is taken into account in the calculation. Oil film supporting the steel fan supports, and the interface
damping may be included if desired. The foundation between the steel supports and the concrete piers.
is excluded from design resonant speed calculations
and is assumed to be infinitely stiff. If a more complex foundation analysis is required
which takes into account horizontal and rocking
Design resonant speed is normally used to provide stiffness also, then this requirement must be specified.
an assessment of the adequacy of the system of
assembled parts within the scope of the fan 3.2.6 Finite element stress analysis (FEA). An
manufacturer's supply. analytical technique that employs computer software
to divide a rotating body into many segments
3.2.4 Installed resonant speed. That fan rotational (elements) to determine the steady state stress at
speed which coincides with the lowest fundamental each element in the body due to its rotation.
natural frequency of the fan shaft in bending when
the shaft is mounted in the impeller and the stiffness 3.2.7 Finite element modal analysis (FEMA). An
of the total support system including bearing oil film, analytical technique that employs finite element
bearing housing, bearing supports, foundation, and technology to determine the fundamental motions
sub-soil are taken into account. Damping values for (modes) of a rotating body and the natural frequency
the oil film, foundation and sub-soil may also be associated with each mode.
included if desired.
3.2.8 Low cycle fatigue analysis. An analytical
Installed resonant speed is normally used to provide technique that predicts the low cycle fatigue life of a
an assessment of the adequacy of the total system of rotating body (cycles to crack initiation) based on the
assembled parts, including parts not within the scope steady state stress at each point as determined by
of the fan manufacturer's supply. It is normally the FEA or other means.
3
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
3.2.9 Fracture mechanics analysis. An analytical motor, a speed reducer, and a uni-directional
technique which predicts the number of cycles from engagement clutch fastened to the outboard end of
crack initiation to failure of a rotating body (critical the fan shaft or motor shaft through a flexible
flaw size). coupling. The turning gear rotates the complete
rotating assembly at a low speed when a hot fan is
3.2.10 Torsional critical speed. The fan rotational taken out of service to prevent distortion from
speed which corresponds to the natural frequency of developing in the impeller and shaft assembly due to
the entire driver and driven rotor system in a torsional uneven cooling. The turning gear may be sized to
mode. start the fan and main motor from rest to reduce the
starting requirements on the main drive motor. Axial
3.2.11 Seismic requirements. A seismic force fans generally do not require this feature. The type of
involves a dynamic force at a particular frequency turning gear should be specified.
and duration. Due to the difficulty in defining these
parameters and the complexity of the analysis, it is 3.3.2 Centerline support. Support of the fan housing
recommended that a static analysis be performed for at the fan centerline when necessary to reduce
the fan impeller and housing or casing in place of any differential thermal growth.
seismic analysis. The static load will consist of a
horizontal force applied both in the axial and 3.3.3 Shaft seal. A device that limits leakage between
transverse direction to the shaft. The forces will be the shaft and fan housing. There are many different
applied at the bearings and at the center of the designs available depending upon the requirements.
housing to determine the adequacy of the anchor
bolts 3.3.4 Expansion joints. A flexible member used to
attach the fan inlet and/or outlet to connecting
3.2.12 Temperature. One cause of premature fan ductwork. Expansion joints are available in a variety
failure is the lowering of the strength of a fan material of materials including elastomers, metals and various
by handling air or gas at a higher temperature than composite fabrics, depending on the temperature,
specified. In addition, fan performance is significantly pressure and constituents of the gas being handled.
affected by temperature. It is, therefore, very Expansion joints on the fan inlet and discharge
important to understand the following four definitions: should be employed whenever possible to reduce
transmission of vibration from the fan to its
3.2.12.1 Peak design temperature. The maximum associated ductwork and to isolate the fan from any
temperature at which a fan can operate for a specific external loads which could be applied from the
duration of time. ductwork. Expansion joints should also be used on
any fan mounted on vibration isolators. Unless
3.2.12.2 Design temperature. The maximum gas specified otherwise, fans will not be designed to
temperature at which a fan can be continually withstand external loads.
operated.
3.3.5 Bearings. Bearings are among the most critical
3.2.12.3 Operating temperature. The gas mechanical components of a fan and are selected to
temperature in the fan during normal conditions. handle radial and thrust loads produced during fan
operation. The following comments are to be used
3.2.12.4 Rate of temperature change. The increase only as a general guide. Bearings can be classified in
or decrease in temperature in a specified time two general categories: journal (sleeve) and anti-
interval. If air temperatures in the fan fluctuate, there friction.
is a possibility of vibration due to uneven rates of
expansion between various parts of the fan. The fan Generally, journal bearings handle moderate to
manufacturer should be consulted if temperature heavy loads over a wide speed range. They have
swings are anticipated. split construction, are oil lubricated, and have
theoretically infinite life with proper maintenance.
3.2.13 Interference fit. A fit between the impeller hub Cooling is possible via water, air, or circulating oil.
and the rotating shaft having limits of size so
specified that an interference always results when The two primary types of anti-friction bearings are
mating parts are assembled; the fit may be either a further classified as ball bearings or roller bearings.
press fit or a shrink fit. Compared to journal bearings, anti-friction bearings
have lower initial cost and have a finite service life.
3.3 Special features Ball bearings are for high speed, light load, low to
moderately high temperature applications. Grease is
3.3.1 Turning gear. An assembly consisting of a the usual lubricant. External cooling is not applicable.
4
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
Roller bearings are for applications with low to comparable as to accuracy of measurement etc.,
moderate speeds, low to moderate loads, over a there are differences in the definition of certain terms
wide temperature range. Grease or oil lubrication can that may affect the final fan rating presented to a
be used. External cooling can be achieved by potential customer.
circulating oil.
It is, therefore, most important that fan users ensure
3.3.6 Partial blade liners. Narrow pieces of material that all fan suppliers clearly state that their rating
located adjacent to the backplate or centerplate to conforms to the definitions presented in ANSI/AMCA
protect the blade from localized wear. (See Figure 210 and this document. An effort to clarify items such
3.4.) as fan static pressure versus static pressure rise is
made in Section 3 Terminology. Sections 14 and 15
3.3.7 Blade liners. Material pieces the same size of this publication are intended to further clarify and
and shape as the fan blade that are added for wear define fan performance rating information.
purposes. This permits removal of the worn blade
liners without removing the impeller from the fan. 4.2 Effects of appurtenances on fan
(See Figure 3.4.) performance
3.3.8 Backplate/centerplate liners. Narrow strips of A fan system may have various appurtenances that
material attached to the backplate/centerplate of an affect aerodynamic performance. The pressure
impeller adjacent to the blade for protection against losses for appurtenances must be considered if the
erosion. (See Figure 3.4.) system is to operate properly. It is necessary to
establish which appurtenances are part of the fan
3.3.9 Cutaway centerplate. Elimination of portions and which are a part of the system.
of the centerplate above the blade to avoid erosion or
reduce the impeller weight and mass moment of In many instances a customer lists the system
inertia. (See Figure 3.4.) requirements and requests that the fan manufacturer
supply additional appurtenances such as silencers or
3.3.10 Replaceable nose pieces. Material pieces dampers. If the fan manufacturer supplies these
added to the leading edge of an airfoil blade to items the appropriate pressure loss will be added to
protect the nose from erosion. (See Figure 3.4.) the system requirement and a fan will be selected for
the sum of the pressure losses.
3.3.11 Scroll liners. Additional material pieces
attached to the fan casing scroll in applications Consulting engineers and users, in order to make
requiring protection from erosion. (See Figure 3.4.) meaningful comparisons between fan proposals,
must ensure that reasonable allowances have been
3.3.12 Housing sideplate liners. Narrow strips of made for the effect of all appurtenances. Because
material fastened to the sideplates of the fan housing various appurtenances do not affect the aerodynamic
at the connection of the scroll. They serve the same performance of all fans to the same degree, it is not
purpose as scroll liners. (See Figure 3.4.) practical to give definitive losses for any one
appurtenance in this publication. However, the
3.4 Sound criteria following list of appurtenances commonly used on
fans is presented to provide guidance for evaluation
There are many terms relating to sound that are often of the effect of appurtenances on fan aerodynamic
misunderstood. In the interest of clarity, however, performance.
these are included in Section 7 that provides a
detailed discussion of the subject of sound. 4.2.1 Fan drive train power losses
4. Testing and Rating Methods 4.2.1.1 Bearing friction. ANSI/AMCA 210 defines
fan power input as the power required to drive the fan
4.1 Laboratory test method and any element in the drive train that is considered
part of the fan. Therefore, bearing losses should be
Fan manufacturers throughout the world use listed and be considered part of the fan rating.
ANSI/AMCA 210 Laboratory Methods of Testing Fans
for Aerodynamic Performance Rating as the basis for 4.2.1.2 Coupling and prime mover. When
testing fan designs in the laboratory. In some considering fan shaft power, the most efficient
instances, fan designs originating in Europe use method of fan control is obtained by varying the
national or international test standards other than speed. The fan shaft power is directly proportional to
ANSI/AMCA 210. Whereas all of these standards are the third power of the speed ratio. However, the
5
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
4
3 6
HOUSING SIDE PLATE
BACKPLATE
BLADE
5 1 2 5
1 2
8
7
1. Partial Blade Liner

2. Full blade liner
3. Scroll liner
4. Housing sideplate liner
5. Backplate/centerplate liner
6. Cutaway centerplate
7. Replaceable nose pieces - Centrifugal fans
8. Replaceable nose pieces - Axial fans
Figure 3.4 - Various Wear and Erosion Protective Accessories
6
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
method used to change the speed must also be Inlet box dampers may have a wide range of
considered in the evaluation. pressure losses, depending upon the damper design
and damper free area. When the dampers are
Fluid and magnetic couplings as well as gearboxes furnished by the fan manufacturer, the appropriate
may be inserted in the drive train between the fan losses should be included in the fan performance.
and the prime mover. The losses for these items,
although not considered part of the fan as in the case 4.2.3.2 Outlet dampers. The outlet damper is used
of bearings, should be included in the evaluation of primarily for isolation purposes. It may be used for
the fan proposal. If the fan manufacturer is supplying minor airflow adjustments; however, it is not
these items, the fan shaft power and the accessory recommended as the primary means of airflow
loss should be listed separately. control due to inefficient reduction in power and the
danger of placing the fan in an unstable portion of its
Alternate methods of changing the speed include performance curve. Damper losses depend upon the
multiple-speed and variable-speed motors. The location of the damper in relation to the fan outlet, the
electrical losses associated with all types of motors, damper design and the free area.
even if supplied by the fan manufacturer, are not
included in the fan proposal. Damper losses are normally determined using
uniform velocity profiles. If a damper is located at a
4.2.2 Inlet box(es). The connection of the fan to its fan outlet its loss may be increased significantly due
upstream ductwork may be made with a fan inlet box to uneven velocity profiles from the fan outlet. If the
rather than a duct elbow. The fan inlet box provides fan manufacturer furnishes the outlet damper the
predictable inlet conditions and maintains stable fan appropriate damper losses should be included in the
performance. An inlet box may be supplied as a fan performance. If the damper is supplied by others,
module or as an integral part of the fan. Inlet boxes it is their responsibility to ensure that all losses have
are often used to mount dampers and silencers as been considered. On axial fan installations outlet
well as to protect fan bearings from high temperature dampers are used for isolation purposes only and are
or corrosive and erosive gases. The fan not recommended as a means of control.
manufacturer should include the effect of any inlet
box on the fan performance and when evaluating a 4.2.3.3 Variable inlet vanes. Variable inlet vanes are
proposal it should be established that an appropriate sometimes employed to control fan performance by
loss has been incorporated in the fan rating. providing swirl to the fan impeller resulting in
significant power savings. Variable inlet vanes tend to
4.2.3 Dampers be slightly more effective than parallel blade inlet box
dampers in saving power. The effect of variable inlet
4.2.3.1 Inlet box dampers. An inlet box damper can vanes on fan performance is included by the fan
be used in either of two ways: as a means of isolating manufacturer when selecting the fan.
the fan from the system, or as an airflow control
device. Isolation of the fan from the system is the only Fan manufacturers furnishing variable inlet vanes for
recommended use for an inlet damper in an axial fan either centrifugal or fixed pitch axial fans should
installation; more efficient methods are available for provide a complete performance envelope showing
airflow control. Airflow control in centrifugal fan the effect of vane position on fan performance and
installations depends on whether the damper blades power. Typical percentage range of power
operate "opposed" or in "parallel," but either type can consumption along a constant system resistance line
be used for isolation purposes. as a percentage of design airflow is shown in Figures
4.3 and 4.4 for backwardly inclined centrifugal fans
Opposed-blade dampers control airflow by acting as and fixed pitch axial fans, respectively.
a throttle. Parallel-blade dampers control airflow by
generating swirl to the impeller inlet. This "pre-spin" 4.2.4 Blade pitch control on axial fans. Axial fans
of the airstream results in a power savings, compared are often supplied with impellers having variable pitch
to opposed blade dampers. blades, a design which permits the blade pitch to be
altered while the fan is running. Significant power
The effect of using an inlet damper to provide savings occur when variable pitch axial fans are used
controlled swirl to the impeller inlet is shown in for flow control. Typical percentage range in power
Figures 4.1 and 4.2, which give typical percentage consumption along a constant system resistance line
ranges of power reduction as a percentage of design at best efficiency point is shown as a percentage of
airflow (for a constant system resistance) for radial the design airflow in Figure 4.5.
tipped and backwardly inclined impeller designs,
respectively. 4.2.5 Diffuser or evasé. If the diffuser is supplied by
7
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
100
PERCENT OF DESIGN POWER
POWER CONSUMPTION
VARIABLE SPEED
0
0 100
PERCENT OF DESIGN CAPACITY
Figure 4.1 - Typical Percentage Range of Design Power with Parallel

Blade Inlet Box Damper Control on Radial Tipped Centrifugal Fans
100
POWER CONSUMPTION
VARIABLE SPEED
0
0 100
Figure 4.2 - Typical Range of Design Power with Parallel Blade

Inlet Box Damper Control on Backward Inclined Centrifugal Fans
8
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
100
POWER CONSUMPTION
VARIABLE SPEED
0
0 100
PERCENT OF DESIGN FLOW
Figure 4.3 - Typical Range of Design Power with Variable Inlet Vanes
on Backward Inclined Centrifugal Fans
100
POWER CONSUMPTION
VARIABLE SPEED
0
0 100
PERCENT OF DESIGN FLOW
Figure 4.4 - Typical Range of Design Power with Variable

Inlet Vanes on Fixed Pitch Axial Fans
9
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
100
POWER CONSUMPTION
VARIABLE SPEED
0 100
Figure 4.5 - Typical Range of Design Power on Variable Pitch Axial Fans
the fan manufacturer it is considered part of the fan thickness of the material and the size of the fan. The
and the fan manufacturer is responsible for the total fan manufacturer is best able to evaluate the overall
pressure loss and static pressure regain produced by effect of the erosion protection method used on fan
the diffuser. If the diffuser is furnished by others, it is designs and will incorporate this effect into the
extremely important that the consulting engineer or performance rating. (See also Section 6.)
user establishes whether the fan manufacturer or the
system designer calculates the diffuser regain, and 4.2.8 Sound attenuators. Attenuator manufacturers
whether or not this has been included in the overall specify friction losses for their product as a function
design system resistance given to the manufacturer. of the face velocity at the inlet to the silencer. If the
fan manufacturer supplies the attenuator, its loss
Care must be exercised to ensure that regain should be listed separately, added to the system
calculations are realistic and consistent with actual requirements, and the fan selected for the sum of the
job site conditions. If this is not done, deviations will overall pressure losses. If the user supplies the
occur between calculated values and the regain attenuator, then its loss is the responsibility of the
actually obtained. user and will be assumed to have been included in
the overall design system resistance given to the fan
4.2.6 Shaft and bearing blockage. Some centrifugal manufacturer.
fan configurations utilize a shaft and bearing in the
fan inlet, blocking a portion of the inlet area and 4.2.9 System effects. The placement of elbows, duct
causing a reduction in fan performance. Some axial configurations, or other items that cause non-uniform
fan configurations use an inlet box and shaft tube, the velocity profiles or swirl at a fan inlet may cause
effects of which are normally included in the fan severe reduction in performance. Similar results
performance and no additional correction is occur when an elbow, outlet damper, short duct, or no
necessary. However, consulting engineers and users duct is placed on a fan discharge. A discussion of
should ensure that the effect of shaft and bearing various System Effects is included in AMCA
blockage has been considered by fan manufacturers Publication 201 Fans and Systems.
in the selection of large fans.
4.3 Scaling effects and fan laws
4.2.7 Wear/erosion protection. Wear liners, wear
strips, and other methods of erosion protection may In the fan industry, most fan designs are developed
be used on both axial and centrifugal fan designs. using models of moderate size and input power. The
When used on a fan impeller the effect on performance obtained from the model is used as
performance is considered negligible providing the base information to calculate the performance of
exact blade profile is maintained and the blade is not larger fans that are geometrically similar to the
increased in thickness. If this is not done there can original model. In making these calculations there are
be a loss in pressure and efficiency. Erosion several considerations that must be taken into
protection on stationary fan parts may cause account as follows:
additional losses in performance depending upon the
10
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
4.3.1 Fan Laws. The basis for converting the For a more complete treatment of the subject, refer to
performance of a larger fan from that of a smaller one AMCA Publication 802.
involves the use of the compressible fan laws. These
are summarized as follows: 4.4 Rating tolerances
The general sequence of events used by most fan

⎛ D ⎞ ⎛ N ⎞⎛ K ⎞
3
Qc = Q ⎜ c ⎟ ⎜ c ⎟ ⎜ p ⎟⎟ manufacturers in establishing the performance of

⎝ D ⎠ ⎝ N ⎠ ⎜⎝ K pc ⎠ fans is as follows:
a) Using available techniques, establish an

⎛ D ⎞ ⎛ N ⎞ ⎛ ρ ⎞⎛ K ⎞
2 2
Ptc = Pt ⎜ c ⎟ ⎜ c ⎟ ⎜ c ⎟ ⎜ p ⎟⎟ aerodynamic design based upon desired

⎝ D ⎠ ⎝ N ⎠ ⎝ ρ ⎠ ⎜⎝ K pc ⎠ performance goals.
2 2
b) Build a model fan of the proposed design (model
⎛D ⎞ ⎛N ⎞ ⎛ ρ ⎞ fan size, in general, ranges from 508 mm to 1270
Pvc = Pv ⎜ c ⎟ ⎜ c ⎟ ⎜ c ⎟
⎝D⎠ ⎝N ⎠ ⎝ ρ ⎠ mm (20 in. to 50 in.) in impeller diameter).
c) Determine, by laboratory test methods, if the

Psc = Ptc − Pvc
model fan meets the established performance
goals.
⎛ D ⎞ ⎛ N ⎞ ⎛ ρ ⎞⎛ K ⎞
5 3
Hc = H ⎜ c ⎟ ⎜ c ⎟ ⎜ c ⎟ ⎜ p ⎟⎟ d) Assuming the performance goals are met for a

⎝ D ⎠ ⎝ N ⎠ ⎝ ρ ⎠ ⎜⎝ K pc ⎠ given fan configuration, additional tests are
conducted to establish the performance of other
⎛P ⎞ commonly used fan configurations and fan
ηsc = η tc ⎜ sc ⎟ accessories.
⎝ Ptc ⎠
For a complete explanation of laboratory test
Where: uncertainties refer to the Appendix on Uncertainty
Analysis in ANSI/AMCA 210.
Dc = converted fan impeller diameter
D = model fan impeller diameter The Uncertainty Appendix of ANSI/AMCA 210
Ptc = converted fan total pressure defines probable laboratory test uncertainties as
Pt = model fan total pressure follows:
Psc = converted fan static pressure
Characteristic Uncertainty. The difference
Ps = model fan static pressure
between the airflow rate established by test and
Qc = converted fan airflow rate the most probable airflow rate. The characteristic
Q = model fan airflow rate uncertainty is about 1% near the best efficiency
Nc = converted fan speed point and approaches 2% at free air delivery.
N = model fan speed
ρc = converted fan air density Efficiency Uncertainty. The difference between
ρ = model fan air density the efficiency determined by test and the most
Hc = converted fan power probable efficiency. The fan efficiency uncertainty
H = model fan power is about 3% near the best efficiency point and
Kpc = converted fan compressibility coefficient exceeds 5% at free air delivery.
Kp = model fan compressibility coefficient
ηtc = converted fan total efficiency Based upon the series of tests described above, the
ηsc = converted fan static efficiency fan manufacturer will state performance ratings for
full size fans that are geometrically similar to the
4.3.2 Similarity requirements. If only the fan laws model fan. Assuming the tests are accurate within the
are used to make these conversions the larger fan, in tolerances described above, the fan manufacturer
many cases, will perform better than predicted, must now apply the compressible fan laws, to
providing that all geometric, kinematic, and dynamic establish the performance of full size fans. It is the
similarity requirements have been satisfied. fan manufacturer's responsibility to build the full size
Geometric similarity requires not only linear fan geometrically similar to the model test fan. When
proportionality but complete angular similarity with no purchased items such as dampers, sound
omission or addition of parts. attenuators, and bearings are involved, fan
11
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
manufacturers generally accept vendor supplied process, or to establish where the fan is operating on
performance data. its characteristic curve.
It is the system designer's responsibility to provide It is also perfectly satisfactory for establishing a
adequate airflow conditions at the fan inlet and outlet. performance guarantee, provided that AMCA
Adverse airflow conditions caused by obstructions or Publication 203 has been mutually agreed upon for
improperly located system components will affect the the field test.
fan's aerodynamic performance (System Effect). For
detailed information on "System Effect," see AMCA It is also the only method by which reasonable
Publication 201 Fans and Systems. performance tests can be undertaken by using
System Effect factors for unusual inlet and outlet duct
Measurement of fan performance in a field connections.
installation, under the best of conditions, can only
approach the accuracy of laboratory tests. Fan field 4.5.1.2 Field testing in accordance with AMCA 803
installations providing adequate airflow conditions at Industrial Process/Power Generation Fans: Site
the fan inlet and outlet plus good test measurement Performance Test Standard. AMCA 803 is a more
locations are advisable. refined procedure than AMCA Publication 203:
Specific inlet airflow velocity profile conditions must
It is apparent that the process of generating model be met before any installation can be tested. The
fan performance, scaling this performance to full size standard has strict requirements of the inlet airflow
units, applying these fans to unknown duct velocity profile, and more rigorous procedures for
configurations, building and installing the fan, and the uncertainty analysis.
uncertainties of field testing will lead to some
variance from the predicted performance. The AMCA 803 is the preferred method of establishing
acceptable variance for each application should be field performance.
established between the fan manufacturer and the
user. Note: If inlet airflow velocity profiles cannot be
established to meet the criteria of AMCA 803, then
4.5 Performance testing techniques AMCA Publication 203 would be an acceptable
alternate procedure.
The following options are available to a company
requiring fans to be tested for confirmation of actual
performance when installed in a duct system. 4.5.1.3 Field testing in accordance with ASME
PTC-11. Another method of field performance testing
The reasons for having a fan test conducted have an of fans is ASME PTC-11 (1984,RA1994). This is a
important bearing on the accuracy and the cost of rigorous code requiring the use of special 3-hole or
doing the test. This is explained in more detail later. even 5-hole probes that are used to measure the
effect of yaw and pitch of the airstream velocity
There are three types of tests that can be conducted. vectors.
These options are as follows:
Using ASME PTC-11 procedure, fan performance is
Option 1 - Field Testing measured at the inlet and outlet flanges of the fan
Option 2 - Model fan testing in a laboratory without accounting for the detrimental effects of non-
Option 3 - Full size fan tests in the fan uniform airflow velocity profiles.
manufacturer's plant or laboratory.
It has been shown that inlet airflow conditions that
4.5.1 Field testing depart from the idealized test laboratory conditions
can have a serious effect on the fan's aerodynamic
4.5.1.1 Field testing in accordance with AMCA performance. This fact is not taken into account by
Publication 203 Field Performance Measurement the ASME test as confirmed by the statement taken
of Fan Systems. Fans can be tested in the field in from ASME PTC-11 (1984,RA1994) paragraph 3.3.9:
accordance with AMCA Publication 203, which is
essentially a guide to the procedure for conducting Comparative fan tests conducted according to a
field tests. As a guide, the document has no laboratory standard and according to procedures
requirements that are binding on the personnel of this Code have demonstrated that similar
conducting the field test. It is an ideal procedure for performance ratings can be obtained if the fan is
establishing what the fan performance is, in general operated under laboratory conditions.
terms, in order to make a change to a particular
12
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
The user of this code should be aware that is conducted at a test rpm specified by the customer.
application of the procedures contained herein All criteria, inspection and corrective action must be
will reveal the performance of the test fan as it is agreed upon prior to the test. A typical sequence is as
affected by the system in which it is installed. follows:
These in-situ performance ratings and ratings of
the same fan based on laboratory tests or ratings The fan impeller is first inspected by suitable
of a model fan based on laboratory tests may not non-destructive methods prior to the overspeed
be the same due to various effects generally test to ensure the absence of indications in welds
called system effects. Any methods for or in the base material.
reconciliation of in-situ performance ratings and
laboratory based ratings are beyond the scope of The fan impeller/rotor is then set up in suitable
this Code. bearings with a driving arrangement which will
allow acceleration of the assembly to the test
Thus the ASME procedure does not provide a direct rotational speed.
comparison to quoted performance values unless
SYSTEM EFFECTS are properly addressed. The fan impeller/rotor is then accelerated to the
test rotational speed, and that rotational speed
4.5.2 Model testing in a laboratory. In many cases, should be maintained for a minimum specified
large fans are difficult, if not impossible to test period.
economically or accurately in the field. In these cases
a better method is to build a scale model fan, with The assembly is inspected after it has come to
scaled inlet and outlet duct connections as rest. The fan impeller is then rechecked for
necessary, and to test this model fan in a laboratory indications, using the same non-destructive
to procedures outlined in AMCA Publication 802. method(s) as for the pretest inspection.
If desired, the effects of poorly designed inlet and The results of the test should be recorded and
outlet conditions can be evaluated. The results submitted to the customer for review.
obtained from a model fan test can then be scaled up
to the full size fan using the Fan Laws and 4.6.2 Mechanical run tests (M.R.T.). The purpose of
procedures outlined in AMCA Publication 802. An a shop mechanical run test is to check the operating
uncertainty analysis provides predictable levels of characteristics of the fan at design rotational speed.
accuracy, which offers more reliable results than The normally measured parameters include bearing
those obtained from field tests on a full size fan. vibration levels and bearing temperatures. Housing
vibration may also be measured if specified. The fan
4.5.3 Full size test in manufacturer's plant or aerodynamic performance or noise levels will not be
laboratory. In many instances, clients purchasing a measured during this test. A test procedure typically
new fan have requested that a fan test be conducted consists of several steps, such as the following:
at the fan manufacturer's plant prior to being shipped
to the site. In these cases, it is often possible to The fan is assembled on a suitably rigid
arrange the fan in such a way as to test it according mounting. A trim balance may be required prior to
to ANSI/AMCA 210. In cases of a large fan, it may be the start of the test.
necessary to test at a reduced speed to maintain the
absorbed fan power within the limitations of the test The fan is started at ambient conditions taking
facility. into account motor power limits, which may
require throttling of the fan.
Performance obtained at reduced speed and
different densities can be rated to the final specified Bearing vibration levels are measured and
conditions using the Fan Laws, providing the test is recorded in the horizontal, vertical and axial
performed within the guidelines stated in AMCA directions at specified time intervals. Bearing
Publication 802. temperatures are measured and recorded until
stabilization occurs.
Uncertainty analysis from ANSI/AMCA 210 would apply.
The results of the test are recorded and
4.6 Mechanical tests submitted to the customer for review.
4.6.1 Overspeed tests (O.S.T.). The purpose of this 4.6.3 Resonant frequency test (R.F.T.). When it is
test is to ensure the structural integrity of the desired to identify resonant frequencies, and
impelleror the rotor. Typically the fan overspeed test identification of mode shapes is not a requirement, a
13
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
Chart of Comparative Testings Costs
FAN SIZE TO BE TESTED
UNDER 1520 mm OVER

1520 MM (60 in.) 3040 mm
TYPE OF TEST REFERENCE/
(60 in.) TO (120 in.)
PROCEDURE
3040 mm
(120 in.)
FIELD AMCA 203 L L M
FIELD AMCA 803 L L/M M
FIELD ASME PTC 11 M H H

MODEL AMCA 802 H USE MODEL LESS THAN
(including cost per AMCA 210 1520 mm (60 in.)
of model) (CHAMBER)
FULL SIZE AT AMCA 210 L/M M/H H

PLANT OR LAB
L = LOW M = MEDIUM H = HIGH
resonant frequency test may be specified. The test 5.1 Single fan operation
normally consists of measuring the frequency
response of a component to an impact using an 5.1.1 Centrifugal fans. Fan manufacturers normally
accelerometer and frequency spectrum analyzer. select a fan to operate in the most efficient and stable
Dynamic tests with the fan operating may also be area of the fan characteristic curve, Point A on Figure
conducted using strain gages along with other 5.1. Hence, any variation in airflow along the same
instrumentation with a corresponding increase in time system resistance line will generally ensure the fan is
and cost. stable at all lesser airflows. See Points B, C, D, etc.
The report to the customer should include the Fan operation to the left of Point A1 is not
resonant frequencies measured over a specified recommended as this could lead to vibrations, and
frequency range. An assessment of the fan operation possible surging. Errors in system resistance
should be included. calculations, inadvertent closing of dampers, and
system fouling may cause the fan to operate in its
4.6.4 Modal test. A modal test is conducted upon an surge zone. Fan manufacturers will usually indicate
actual structure. The test involves measuring the by a dotted line the area of possible instability on their
response of a structure to a known excitation. The performance curves.
results provide natural frequencies, mode shapes
and damping coefficients. Equipment required 5.1.2 Axial fans. Axial fans have a similar condition
consists of an excitation source such as a calibrated where a stall region occurs for any given blade angle
hammer or shaker, accelerometers, and an as shown in Figure 5.2. If the fan is selected to
analyzer/computer with appropriate software. The operate at Point A, then any variation in airflow along
report to the customer should include natural a constant system resistance line will result in stable
frequencies and mode shape plots. Operating conditions at reduced blade angles such as B, C, and D.
deflection shape analysis may be used with the fan
operating for non-rotating parts or structure. If the fan is forced to operate in the stall zone, serious
vibrations may occur which can cause premature
5. Operation failure. Errors in system resistance calculations,
inadvertent closing of system dampers, and system
The subject of fan operation contains many important fouling may cause the fan to operate in its stall zone
concepts that may help the potential customer to for any given blade angle.
specify the fan design or accessories that best suit
his requirements. This section is intended to discuss 5.2 Parallel fan operation
only the major factors of operating fans either singly
or in parallel. Fans in parallel will operate at the same pressure and
14
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
2. CURVES FOR ISOLATION OR

OUTLET DAMPER CONTROL
REGION OF
POSSIBLE
INSTABILITY A1
D1
C1
B1
A A TO D1: RANGE OF OUTLET
DAMPER CONTROL
B
A-D = INLET BOX DAMPER
OR VARIABLE INLET
C VANE CONTROL
PRESSURE
1. INLET CONTROL POSITIONS FOR VARIABLE INLET VANES

OR PARALLEL BLADE INLET BOX DAMPER CONTROL
FLOW
Curve 1: Variable inlet vane or parallel blade inlet box damper control
Curve 2: Isolation or outlet damper control
Figure 5.1 - Typical Centrifugal Fan Performance Curves
TYPICAL SYSTEM
RESISTANCE LINE
A
STALL ZONE
PR
ES
SU
PRESSURE
RE
IONS
CH POSIT
BLA DE PIT
FLOW
Figure 5.2 - Typical Axial Fan Curve with Variable Pitch Blade Control
15
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
M
TE E
S YS LIN
AL NCE
Y PIC STA
T SI
C RE
A
PRE
SSU
PR
RE
ES
PRESSURE and H.P.
SU
E
RE
D
N
FA
R
PE
ER
W B
PO
FLOW
Figure 5.3 - Typical Performance Curve of Two Centrifugal Fans in Parallel
A C
100%
PR
ES
SU
PRESSURE
R
E
D B
50% 100%
FLOW
Figure 5.4 - Typical Performance Curve for Two Axial Fans in Parallel
16
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
the total airflow rate will be the sum of the represents the lowest part of the stalling line (saddle
corresponding individual fan airflow rates. This point). By-pass air is sometimes used to overcome
configuration is used when large airflow rates are this problem.
desired.
Fixed-pitch axial fans with variable inlet vanes should
5.2.1 Centrifugal fans. A typical performance curve not be operated in parallel if they are not regulated
for two Backward Inclined centrifugal fans in parallel together due to the risk of forcing both fans into the
is shown in Figure 5.3. The operating point for two stall region. The starting up procedure of a second
fans in parallel is Point C, but each fan is actually fan must include a reduction of the airflow of the first
operating at Point A on its own curve, each requiring fan and then simultaneous regulation with both fans.
the power at Point D. If one fan is shut down, the
operating point of the remaining fan will move down 5.3 Balance and vibration
the performance curve to Point B to match the
system resistance line of the duct which has 5.3.1 Application categories. ANSI/AMCA 204
remained unchanged. defines two categories of applications for industrial
process/power generation fans: BV-3 for fans under
In this case, the power has risen slightly to E. If the 298 kW (400 hp); BV-4 for fans over 298 kW (400 hp).
fans were other than backward inclined, the power
could increase significantly and precautions would 5.3.2 Shop dynamic balancing. Most fan
have to be taken not to overload the motor. manufacturers work to ANSI S2.19-89 (ISO 1940)
with a permissible residual unbalance as defined by
The shutdown fan can be restarted without any Balance Quality Grades G6.3 or G2.5, which
problems, and each fan will move back to Point A on correspond to categories BV-3 and BV-4 as given in
its respective performance curve. No special ANSI/AMCA 204. The fan manufacturer is
precautions have to be taken when bringing the responsible for dynamically balancing the fan
second fan on line assuming that the fan is not impeller assembly to acceptable commercial
rotating backwards due to air leakage through standards. Balancing is generally performed on
isolation or inlet dampers. These dampers are highly sensitive, purpose-built, dynamic balancing
usually closed during start-up to reduce the power machines which permit accurate assessment of
consumption, the starting time, and maximum current residual unbalance at reduced speeds.
drawn. It should be noted that the fan/system may
experience some instability when the second of two 5.3.3 Support flexibility. Fan installations are
fans in parallel is started. classified for vibration severity according to their
support flexibility. To be classified as rigidly
5.2.2 Axial fans. A typical performance curve for two supported, the fan and support system should have a
variable-pitch axial fans in parallel is shown in Figure fundamental (lowest) natural frequency above the
5.4. The operating point for two fans in parallel is running speed. To be classified as flexibly supported,
point C, but each fan is actually operating at Point A the fan and support system should have a
on its own curve. With one fan operating and fundamental natural frequency below the running
maintaining the same pitch angle, the operating point speed. Generally, a large well designed concrete
will move to Point B (the maximum pitch angle foundation will result in a rigid support, whereas a fan
depends on motor size). The second fan is started mounted on vibration isolators will be classified as
with the isolation dampers closed and at the lowest flexibly supported. Fans mounted on steelwork can
blade pitch angle. When the damper is open, the fan be in either category depending on the structural
will operate at Point D. design. In case of doubt, analysis or tests should be
performed to determine the fundamental natural
The blade pitch angle of the second fan can now be frequency. Note that in some cases a fan could be
increased to keep the total airflow at the same level classified as rigidly supported in one measurement
by decreasing the blade pitch angle of the first fan. direction and flexibly supported in another.
When the two fans have reached Point E, both fans
are in parallel and may be regulated simultaneously 5.3.4 Measurement locations. Fan vibration levels
to obtain the desired airflow rate. Detailed starting are generally measured using commercially available
procedures should be reviewed with the fan measurement devices, either portable or
manufacturer prior to operation. permanently installed.
For special applications (for instance, as Primary Air For horizontal vibration measurements, the sensor
fans) care must be taken to ensure that a fan is never should be placed on the exterior surface of the
started up against a pressure higher than S, where S bearing housing, in line with the shaft centerline.
17
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
Vertical measurements should be taken on the top will increase due to wear and other accumulated
surface of the bearing housing, and axial effects. In general, an increase in vibration is
measurements parallel to the shaft on the external reasonable and safe as long as the level does
surface of the bearing housing. Generally, horizontal not reach “alarm”.
vibration will be higher than vertical or axial vibration.
If the vibration severity level increase to the
For axial flow fans that have bearings located inside “alarm” level, action should be initiated
the casing, vibration levels may be measured at the immediately to determine the cause of the
centerline of the casing provided it is sufficiently rigid, increase and action taken to correct it. Operation
such as at a flange or stiffener. at this condition should be carefully monitored
and limited to time required to develop a program
5.3.5 Factory running test. Many fans in category for correcting the cause of the increased
BV-3 and some fans in category BV-4 will receive a vibration.
factory running test. The vibration limits in Table 5.1
apply to assembled fans. The values shown are peak If the vibration severity level increases to the
velocity values, FILTER-IN, at the factory test speed. “shut-down” level, corrective action should be
It should be noted that many category BV-4 and taken immediately or the fan should be shut
some BV-3 fans are field erected units and as such, down. Failure to reduce the shut-down level
would not normally receive a factory running test. vibration to the acceptable recommended level
Specification of a factory running test for such units could lead to bearing failure, cracking of rotor
could be cost prohibitive if not impossible. parts and fan housing structural welds, and
ultimately, a catastrophic failure.
5.3.6 Installed vibration levels. (This section is
excerpted in its entirety from ANSI/AMCA 204-96.) 5.3.7 Displacement readings. (This section is
excerpted from ANSI/AMCA 204-96.) “The user and
The in-situ vibration level of any fan is not solely manufacturer may agree to measure shaft
dependent on the balance grade. Installation displacement within the sleeve bearing oil film by
factors, the mass and stiffness of the supporting means of proximity probe systems.
system, will influence the in-situ vibration level
(Refer to AMCA Publication 202 Such systems measure the relative motion between
Troubleshooting). Therefore, fan vibration level the rotating shaft surface and the static bearing
in-situ is not the responsibility of the fan housing. Clearly, the allowable displacement
manufacturer unless specified in the purchase amplitude must be limited to a value less than the
contract. diametral clearance of the bearing. This internal
clearance varies as a function of the bearing size, the
The vibration levels in Table 5.2 are guidelines radial/axial loading, the bearing type, and the axis of
for acceptable operation of fans in the various interest (i.e., some designs have an elliptical bore
application categories. The values shown are for with larger clearance in the horizontal axis than the
filter-out measurements taken on the bearing vertical axis). Therefore it is not the intent of this
housings. standard to establish discrete shaft displacement
limits for all sleeve bearings and fan applications.
The vibration severity level of newly However, the following guideline is recommended for
commissioned fans should be at or below the shaft displacement limits. The values shown in Table
“start-up” level. As operation of the fan increases 6.1 are the percent of the total available clearance
with time, it is expected that the vibration level within the bearing in each axis.
Table 5.1 Table 5.2

Factory Running Test In-situ Running Test
Application Filter-Out Vibration Limits
Category Filter-In mm/s (in./s)
Vibration Limits
mm/s (in./s) Start-Up Alarm Shut-Down
Rigid Flexible Rigid Flexible Rigid Flexible Rigid Flexible

3.8 5.1 6.4 8.8 10.2 16.5 12.7 17.8
BV-3
(0.15) (0.20) (0.25) (0.35) (0.40) (0.65) (0.50) (0.70)
2.5 2.8 4.1 6.4 6.4 10.2 10.2 15.2
BV-4
(0.10) (0.15) (0.16) (0.25) (0.25) (0.40) (0.40) (0.60)
18
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
Table 5.3 • Shut-Down = (0.70 0.33 mm) = 0.231 mm

= 0.231 mm, pk-pk (0.70 0.013 in.)
= 9.1 mils, pk-pk
Maximum
recommended
Combined mechanical and electrical run-out of the
Displacement as a
Condition shaft at the point of vibration measurement:
percent of available
diametral clearance
a. 0.0127 mm (0.0005 inches)
(any axis).
< + 25% Note: b. 0.25 × 0.0825 mm (0.25 × 0.0033 inches)
Contact bearing supplier = 0.0052 mm (0.0008 inches)
to obtain the available
Start-Up / Satisfactory diametral and axial Choose the greater of the two values: 0.0052 mm
clearances within the (0.0008 inches).”
particular sleeve bearing
being used. 5.4 Duct vibrations and pulsations
Alarm Level 50% In recent years, systems have become larger and
larger, resulting in increased fan requirements. Duct
pulsations have occurred on some installations. The
Shut-Down Level 70% likely incidence of pulsation or vibration in any duct
configuration is not predictable and corrective
measures usually have to be made after the system
Note that this measurement involves the apparent is in operation. In general, duct vibrations and
motion of the shaft surface. Measurements are pulsations are more likely to occur under the
affected not only by vibration of the shaft but also by following circumstances:
any mechanical run-out of the shaft surface if the
shaft is bent or out-of-round. The magnetic/electrical 5.4.1 Reduced fan loads may cause high velocity air
properties of the shaft material at the point of to pass over variable inlet vanes, dampers, fan
measurement also affect the electrical run-out of the blades, or fan shafts in such a manner as to cause air
shaft as measured by a proximity probe. The separation from the surfaces of these items. In the
combined mechanical and electrical probe-track run- case of variable inlet vanes, this condition may be
out of the shaft material at the point of measurement corrected by adding spoiler fins or tabs to break up
should not exceed 0.0127mm (0.0005 inches) peak- high swirling airflow.
to-peak or 25 percent of the start-up/ satisfactory
vibration displacement value, whichever is greater. 5.4.2 Any form of uneven air velocity distribution
This run-out should be determined during a slow roll occurring at a fan inlet due to poor duct
speed test (100 to 400 rpm), where the unbalance configurations may result in an uneven loading of the
forces on the rotor are negligible. Special shaft fan impeller. Conditions of this nature often can be
preparation may be required to achieve satisfactory corrected by adding splitter vanes or turning vanes in
run-out measurement. Proximity probes should be the inlet or outlet ductwork to provide more uniform
mounted directly in the bearing housing whenever airflow. This method is often the best approach in
possible. reducing most forms of duct vibration and pulsation.
Example: Recommended guidelines for normal 152 5.4.3 A fan operated in the unstable portion of its
mm (6 inch) diameter sleeve bearing having a performance curve is often a cause of duct pulsation.
horizontal internal clearance of 0.33 mm (0.013 In this instance the fan may be oversized due to
inches): overestimating system requirements resulting in the
need to "damper back" to a reduced airflow rate. On
LIMITS OF RELATIVE SHAFT VIBRATION certain centrifugal fan designs it may be possible to
reduce the impeller diameter thus reducing the fan
• Start-Up / = (0.25 0.33 mm) = 0.0825 mm airflow rate and allowing system dampers to be
Satisfactory = 0.0825 mm, pk-pk (0.25 0.013 in.) opened. It may be possible to adapt a recirculation
= 3.3 mils, pk-pk system to the fan which "bleeds in" air at low flows
and allows the fan to effectively move out of any
• Alarm = (0.50 0.33 mm) = 0.165 mm unstable area. As a last resort, changes to the
= 0.165 mm, pk-pk (0.50 0.013 in.) system or a complete new fan may have to be
= 6.5 mils, pk-pk considered.
19
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
5.4.4 Duct pulsation problems tend to be more 6. Erosion, Corrosion and Build-Up
evident on very large installations where the
ductwork is correspondingly large and the panel The effects of erosion and corrosion on fan
stiffness is proportionally less than that on smaller equipment cannot be taken lightly if fan airstreams
ducts, even though the thickness of the ducts has contain or are expected to contain corrosive or
been increased. As an example, a 3.66 m x 3.66 m erosive material. The existence of either may
(12 ft x 12 ft) duct would require approximately 32 drastically shorten fan life and may result in unsafe
times the stiffness of a 1.83 m x 1.83 m (6 ft x 6 ft) equipment operation.
duct to provide the same deflection at mid-panel. In
many cases, this lack of adequate stiffness can Fan manufacturers generally do not perform
magnify duct pulsations. extensive tests on various construction materials
relative to erosion rates or corrosion rates. There is
5.4.5 In some instances duct pulsation may be the almost an infinite number of variables in the erosion
result of a design that inadvertently creates standing material since particle size, density, composition,
wave patterns inside system components or surface texture, hardness, particle velocity, mass,
connecting ductwork. The usual correction for this impact angle, fan surface areas and perhaps other
condition is to change the standing wave pattern by criteria must be equated to construction material
making alterations to the system. characteristics such as hardness, grain size and
characteristics, composition, toughness and other
5.4.6 It is possible that the natural frequency of a duct physical characteristics.
or component may coincide with a multiple of the
blade-pass frequency or running speed resulting in a Corrosion rate data testing is similar in complexity to
resonant condition. Changing the natural frequency erosion testing; however, a fair amount of corrosion
of the vibrating component is usually accomplished rate and relative corrosion rate data is available.
by the addition of stiffening members. Existing data is generally based on known and well
defined commonly used corrosive materials;
The problem of vibration and pulsation is usually however, it is not available for applications involving
reproduced only under controlled conditions by airstreams. The experience of fan manufacturers
duplicating the actual upstream and downstream and users is the primary source of information.
duct configuration from the site layout. It, therefore,
should be recognized that such problems are For the reasons discussed herein, fan manufacturers
generally fan/system problems and a satisfactory are unable to warrant or guarantee fan erosion or
solution will only be achieved if all parties involved corrosion rates. Allowances for erosion and corrosion
work together to solve any pulsation problems if and can generally be supplied by the fan supplier.
when they occur. It is recommended that ductwork
layouts be reviewed between the fan manufacturer 6.1 Erosion corrosion
and the customer to discuss any areas of major
concern that can be corrected prior to fabrication. There are various techniques that can be utilized to
This, however, will not ensure that pulsations will not extend the life of fan equipment operating under
occur, but will likely reduce either their incidence or erosive conditions. Generally, fan impellers
severity. experience the greatest wear rate and fan housings
and shafts the least.
5.5 Implosion
Impeller blade life may be extended through the use
In the design of a boiler, the term "implosion" means of sacrificial "wear plates" which are either added
the opposite of explosion. "Implosion" has been used over or imbedded in the fan blades, with various
more frequently because there have been instances attachment techniques. Depending on the type of fan
where boiler walls, ducts, or breeching have under consideration, the wear protection may be full
collapsed inwardly due to abnormal negative or partial coverage of the blades. A wide variety of
pressure in the furnace. It is, therefore, very abrasion resistant materials may be used. Certain
important that the user be aware of this possibility. spray-on type abrasion resisting surfaces may be
The fan manufacturer is not in a position to make a applied.
comparison between the furnace design pressure
and the fan pressure capability and therefore, cannot Centrifugal fan impeller centerplates and shrouds
be held responsible for this aspect of the fan should be considered for additional erosion
selection. protection. It may take the form of cut-away
centerplates or the addition of wear strips constructed
of abrasion resistant materials on the centerplate
20
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
and/or shrouds. Attachment techniques generally used reduced or eliminated include handling explosive gas
are circumferential welding, plug welding or bolting. streams, handling process gases, handling flue gas
where in-leakage of cool gas can cause corrosion,
Centrifugal fan housing life may be extended by and any other process where the addition of outside
utilizing scroll liners and sideliners within the fan air is unacceptable. Examples of applications where
housing or constructing the housing of extra thick out-leakage may need to be reduced or eliminated
materials. Inlet cones may also be constructed of include handling poisonous or environmentally
extra heavy or abrasion resistant materials. harmful gas, handling hot or corrosive gas, or
applications where leakage into an enclosed area
A primary cause of corrosion is fan operation at a would be objectionable. The determining factor in
temperature below the dew point of the air stream. whether leakage will be inward or outward is the
Fans handling corrosive gases are generally relationship between inlet pressure, discharge
constructed of corrosion resistant alloy materials or, pressure and ambient pressure. Whenever leakage
on non-abrasive applications, are coated with is a concern, the specification should include a
corrosion resistant material or a combination of both definition of these pressure relationships and a
techniques. definition of acceptance criteria for inward and/or
outward leakage. Costs rapidly increase to achieve
Prior to selecting materials, fan suppliers, materials leakage rates approaching zero leakage and
engineers, and users should be consulted to gain the therefore, the specifier should consider what leakage
benefit of actual operating experience. is actually acceptable for a given application.
Specifications should stipulate the corrosion and 7.2 Locations of leakage

erosion protection deemed necessary.
The area of concern in fan leakage is the fan housing
6.2 Build-up and associated appurtenances. These
appurtenances include any openings in the fan
Build-up can occur on fan impellers that handle housing which form a path for gas leakage. One
significant amounts of dust or other particulate major source of leakage is where the fan shaft
matter. The biggest problem with this is excessive passes through the housing. Other sources include
vibration due to the unbalance that results from access doors or ports, drains, flanges at inlet and
uneven distribution of the material after a piece of the discharge, and impeller removal splits. To achieve an
built-up material breaks away. extremely low leakage rate, the number and size of
these openings should be reduced to a minimum.
There are two primary modes of build-up. In the first Impeller removal splits are an especially difficult area
mode, dust is caught on the back surface of the to effectively seal due to the length of the leakage
blades and held in place by centrifugal force. This path for this type of construction. The integrity and
can occur on backward inclined, backward curved, type of construction of the fan housing itself is also a
airfoil, and radial tip blade forms. In the second concern when low leakage is desired. Continuous
mode, material adheres to the front surface of the welding of all components is frequently required to
blades by the impact between the material and blade meet stringent leakage requirements.
surface. This can occur on any blade form.
7.3 Shaft seals
Build-up can be minimized with proper blade form
and material selection. The fan suppliers and users As stated in Section 7.2, meeting low leakage
should be consulted for proper selections based on requirements often dictates that the number of
their experience. openings in a fan housing be minimized. Every fan
housing must have an opening through which the fan
7. Leakage shaft must pass and, therefore, this becomes a major
concern. The opening in the fan housing for the fan
7.1 Introduction shaft can be equipped with a variety of shaft seals to
reduce leakage in this area. Most manufacturers’
Standard construction for fans for industrial and utility standard seals involve rubbing contact of various
service will allow for some leakage associated with gasket materials with the shaft. An important
the fan. Certain fan applications may dictate that fan consideration in the selection of a shaft seal is
leakage be limited or completely eliminated. whether the presence of a barrier fluid is allowable.
Leakage of concern may be either in-leakage or out- Shaft seals with a barrier fluid operate on the
leakage depending upon the application. Examples principle of having a barrier fluid pressure in the seal
of applications where in-leakage may need to be greater than the fan pressure or atmosphere
21
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
pressure. Therefore, leakage of the barrier fluid operating pressure, if greater than ambient. The flow
occurs to atmosphere and/or into the fan but leakage rate of pressurizing gas required to maintain a given
from the fan is eliminated. If leakage of a barrier fluid operating pressure is measured. This flow rate is
is not allowable, the shaft seal must be designed to equal to the leakage from the fan. A specification for
eliminate leakage mechanically which is often more this type of test should include a definition of test
difficult and costly to accomplish. Examples of shaft pressure and allowable rate of leakage flow in cubic
seals that employ a barrier fluid include double meters per second (cubic feet per minute). This test
pressurized seals, stuffing boxes and certain can also be conducted under vacuum conditions for
mechanical seals. Low leakage seals without a cases when design pressure is lower than ambient
barrier fluid are restricted to certain specialized pressure.
mechanical seals. Generally speaking, shaft seal first
cost and maintenance cost increase with decreasing 7.6 Associated issues
leakage allowance.
The need for a specification for reduced leakage from
7.4 Designing for low leakage a fan also frequently is associated with other issues
which are briefly reviewed below:
If fan leakage must be limited or eliminated, the
specifier must clearly state the allowable rate of 7.6.1 Spark resistant construction. When in-
leakage and direction of leakage. Allowable leakage leakage of ambient air is limited due to the handling
rate should be described in terms of flow rate (m3/s of explosive gases, spark resistant construction is
or cfm). Temperatures, pressures and expected rates also frequently employed. There are various types of
of change of both should also be specified. With spark resistant construction, designated by AMCA as
knowledge of the fan application, pressure types A, B, or C (refer to AMCA Publication 99 for a
distribution, fluid handled and allowable leakage, the description of these types).
fan manufacturer can design a product to meet the
specified criteria. 7.6.2 Surface finish. When the conditions described
in Section 7.6.1 apply, special surface finishes for the
7.5 Verifying leakage impeller and/or housing are sometimes required to
prevent accumulation of material in crevices.
Fan leakage can be verified by testing at the fan
manufacturer's facilities. The following are common 7.6.3 Shaft sleeves. When in-leakage of ambient air
tests employed by fan manufacturers: is limited due to expected corrosive effects of mixing
cool ambient air with flue gas, stainless steel shaft
7.5.1 Soap bubble test. In this test the fan housing sleeves are sometimes required to protect the shaft
alone is tested for leakage. The fan inlet, outlet and in the shaft seal area from corrosion.
shaft seal are covered with plates and gaskets. The
fan housing is pressurized with air and a soap 7.6.4 Centerline support. Certain shaft seal
solution is applied to the exterior welds and joints. designs, particularly mechanical seals, have little
The presence of bubbles indicates leakage. The allowance for movement due to thermal expansion of
specification for this test should define test pressure. a fan housing. When these types of seals are
employed or when large thermal expansion is
7.5.2 Pressure decay test of fan housing. The test expected due to large temperature changes or large
setup is similar to the test described in Section 7.5.1. fan housing size, support of the fan housing at its
After the sealed fan housing is pressurized with air or centerline may be required. The fan manufacturer
water, leakage is monitored by recording pressure can identify when this type of construction is
versus time. A specification for this type of test should required. At times this type of construction will require
include a definition of test pressure and allowable the end user to supply a foundation that is different
pressure decay per given time period. This test is than a conventional fan arrangement.
particularly applicable if a shaft seal with barrier fluid
is employed, since zero leakage is assured as long 8. Fan Sound
as barrier fluid pressure is maintained.
8.1 Applicable sound publications
7.5.3 Leakage test of operating fan. In this test, the
complete fan is assembled and operated at ambient 8.1.1 AMCA 300 Reverberant Room Method for
conditions with the inlet and discharge covered with Sound Testing of Fans. This standard defines the
plates and gaskets. The fan housing is pressurized reverberant room method of determining the sound
with an external source of gas to the specified power level of a fan.
22
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
8.1.2 AMCA 301 Methods of Calculating Fan

⎛ watts ⎞
Sound Ratings from Laboratory Test Data. This LW = 10 log ⎜ −12 ⎟ dB
standard defines the methods for calculating fan ⎝ 10 ⎠
sound ratings from laboratory test data.
Octave Band is the interval between any two
8.1.3 AMCA Publication 303 Application of Sound frequencies having the ratio 2:1.
Power Level Ratings. This publication presents
guidelines for the calculation of sound pressure Sound Intensity Level (Li), in decibels, is ten times the
levels, (in octave bands or dBA), for typical spaces logarithm to the base 10 of the ratio of the sound
exposed to noise radiation from fans, given the intensity I to the reference intensity Iref.
sound power levels of the fan.
Li = 10 log ( I / Iref )
8.1.4 AMCA 320 Laboratory Method of Sound
Testing of Fans Using Sound Intensity. This Reference Sound Source (RSS) is any sound source,
standard defines the procedures for determining the broadband in character (without objectionable single
sound power of a fan by sound intensity frequency components) and with a sound output
measurement techniques. sufficiently great so that the sound pressure level is
measurable above the prevailing ambient noise
8.2 Acoustical terminology and symbols levels in all octave bands of interest. Specific
requirements for the RSS are listed in AMCA 300.
There are special terms and symbols used in
acoustics, which covers sound measurement and 8.3 Laboratory test methods
noise control. Some of the most useful are the
following: 8.3.1 AMCA 300 Reverberant Room Method for
Sound Testing of Fans. The basis of this test
The decibel (dB) is a dimensionless number method is found in ANSI S12.31 Precision Methods
expressing, in logarithmic terms, the ratio of a for the Determination of Sound Power Levels of
quantity to a reference quantity. For acoustical work it Broad-Band Noise Sources in Reverberation Rooms.
is used to express levels of sound and sound This standard describes the test methods used for
pressure. reverberant or semi-reverberant rooms.
Sound is produced by the vibration of matter. As the The test procedure employs the comparison method
matter vibrates, it causes sound waves to spread (substitution method); comparison is made between
through the surrounding medium (which may be air, the sound pressure levels produced by a fan and
water, metal, or any material substance). Sound those produced by a Reference Sound Source (RSS)
waves are pressure fluctuations in the medium in in the same acoustical environment. The procedure
which they occur. consists of taking full or 1/3 octave band sound
pressure level readings for the RSS and for the test
Sound Pressure Level (Lp), in decibels, is 20 times fan for several points of operation in the normal
the logarithm to the base 10 of the ratio of the operating range of the fan. From these readings and
pressure of this sound to the reference pressure. the sound power level calibrations of the RSS, the
The reference pressure is 0.0002 microbar or 20 sound power levels of the fan are calculated.
micropascal.
The fan must be located in a qualified room. The
⎛ P micropascal ⎞ room qualification procedure consists of recording
Lp = 20 log ⎜ ⎟ dB the sound level by full or 1/3 octave band with the
⎝ 20 micropascal ⎠ RSS operating over eight locations and comparing
the readings obtained. Too great a difference
Sound Power is the total energy radiated by a source between the eight sets of readings indicates the
per unit of time. sound field is not diffuse and changes are required in
the setup or room configuration.
Sound Power Level (LW), in decibels, is 10 times the
logarithm to the base 10 of the ratio of the acoustic Test results are presented as sound power levels in
power in watts to the reference power. The reference decibels for eight octave bands having mid-
power is 10-12 watt. frequencies from 63 Hz through 8000 Hz, for each
stated operating condition of the fan. ANSI S12.31
addresses frequencies from 125 Hz through 8000 Hz.
23
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
It is important to note that throttling devices such as method is most economical when applied to fans
an inlet box damper, a discharge damper, and/or under 1000 mm (39.5 in.) nominal size.
variable inlet vanes will have noticeable effect on
sound depending on the degree of throttling. 8.4 Sound power level conversion methods
8.3.2 AMCA 320 Laboratory Method of Sound The sound power level of a fan, as stated earlier, is
Testing of Fans Using Sound Intensity. The basis determined by test in accordance with AMCA 300 or
for this standard is given in ANSI S12.12 American 320 for a selected test size and speed. Conversion to
National Standard Engineering Method for the another size and/or speed can be accomplished by
Determination of Sound Power Levels of Noise two methods; i.e., the Generalized Sound Power
Sources Using Sound Intensity. A fan produces Level method and/or the Specific Sound Power Level
acoustical energy. This energy per unit time is method. See AMCA 301, Methods for Calculating
expressed as sound power in dB re 10-12 Watts and Fan Sound Ratings from Laboratory Test Data.
is radiated from the source at a nearly constant rate
regardless of distance. Sound intensity is a rate of These methods apply only to fans of the same
energy flowing through a unit of area and is geometric proportionality with identical points of
expressed in Watts per square meter. Sound operation as related by fan laws.
Intensity is a vector quantity that has magnitude and
direction. Therefore, if a theoretical enclosure is 8.5 Prediction of on-site sound pressure levels
placed around a fan and the normal spatial-averaged
intensity is measured passing through the overall 8.5.1 Most fan manufacturers will supply sound
surface area of the “enclosure”, the sound power can power levels for the selected fan and point of
be calculated by multiplying the average intensity by operation. Differences in sound power levels of 2 dB
the surface area of the enclosure. AMCA 320 or less are not considered significant. In comparing
contains the procedures that are used in measuring sound power levels of different manufacturers, it is
the sound intensity as well as defining and calculating good practice to disregard differences of less than 4
the theoretical enclosure and surface area. dB. This is particularly true in the first octave band
where differences of 6 dB or less should be
Measurement of sound intensity utilizes two disregarded.
microphones facing each other at a small but
carefully specified separation distance. If Many specifications require the determination of
measurement over the total frequency range from 63 sound pressure levels at specified locations in the
Hz to 8000 Hz is desired, two different separation vicinity of the fan. To do this effectively, the fan
distances, determined by spacers, are required, thus manufacturer must know the distance of the installed
increasing the duration of the test. fan from any major sound reflecting surfaces, the
nature and construction of these surfaces; the
Results of a complete test are presented in eight presence of any other sound sources in the
octave bands for each stated operating point tested. immediate area along with their location with respect
Comparative tests have shown agreement between to the fan and their respective sound levels; the type
the sound intensity method and other methods. A of insulation and/or lagging to be applied to the fan
convergence index is used to evaluate the reliability and ductwork, if any.
of the test results.
If the acoustic environment is well defined,
There are several considerations as to whether the reasonable predictions of sound pressure levels can
sound intensity technique is advantageous over the be made by methods outlined in AMCA Publication
reverberant room method. Because sound intensity 303 Application of Sound Power Level Ratings or
is a vector quantity, the sound power determination ASHRAE Handbook HVAC Applications (Sound and
can be made almost anywhere in any environment as Vibration Control chapter). In comparing sound
long as the background noise is essentially constant pressure levels of different manufacturers when the
(without impact noise or fluctuations). This feature acoustic environment is well defined, it is good
allows mapping of the fan, which is useful in trying to practice to disregard differences of less than 6 dB.
locate specific sources of sound. The sound intensity Differences of 8 dB or less in the first octave band
technique is well suited to determining housing- should be disregarded.
radiated sound power.
Without sufficient knowledge of the installation, the
However, the theoretical surface area increases with fan manufacturer may be required to make a number
the size of the fan under test, making sound intensity of assumptions about the acoustic environment. In
measurements of a large fan logistically difficult. This general, the manufacturer will assume hemispherical
24
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
radiation (no major sound reflecting surfaces near the sound levels. Figure 8.1 illustrates directivity's effect
fan and no other sound sources in the immediate on sound level at measurement points relative to an
area). The fan manufacturers cannot guarantee open-inlet fan.
sound pressure levels (dBA) because they do not
have control of the environment in which the fan is to 8.7 Methods of sound attenuation
be located.
The sound emitted from fans requires serious
The sound pressure levels supplied by the fan consideration due to the need for plant employee
manufacturers generally do not include the effects of protection and community acceptance. A brief
accessories such as motors, drives, and couplings. description of the method used to silence fans is
These need to be accounted for by the user in order provided here.
to completely define the sound characteristics around
the fan. To effectively control fan sound, a complete
understanding of the sound sources within the fan,
NEMA MG 1-20.50.3 lists no-load motor sound power the paths through which the sound can be radiated,
levels for TEFC squirrel-cage induction motors. The and knowledge of the potential receiver of the sound
motor manufacturer should be consulted for more is necessary.
specific information, including the effects of load.
Generally, motors will be noisier when operated by There are two principal sources of sound within a fan.
variable frequency drives compared to straight sine- See Figure 8.2. The first source is the blade pass
wave power. tone which is generated by the impeller blades. The
frequency of the blade pass tone is equal to the
8.5.2 Some manufacturers employ a calculation number of times per second a blade passes a
procedure using static pressure, blade tip speed, stationary object.
blade pass frequency, and fan power as input to
theoretical equations corrected by actual site test
⎛ ( rpm )( number of blades ) ⎞
data for the prediction of sound pressure levels. BPF = ⎜ ⎟ Hz
⎝ 60 ⎠
8.5.3 The sound levels supplied by the fan
manufacturer are based upon fan performance at the The loudness of the blade pass tone is dependent on
design operating point. These levels may be the width of the fan impeller and the distance
substantially different at other points of operation. between a blade and the cutoff or the stator vanes.
8.6 Measurement of on-site sound pressure The second major source of sound within a fan is the
levels turbulence created by the fan while adding energy to
the airstream. This sound is generally broad band in
It is a relatively simple matter to measure the sound character.
pressure level at selected locations near the fan.
However, it will rarely be possible to use this There are three primary paths by which sound
information to establish the sound power level of the radiates from a fan; namely, through the inlet, the
fan. This would be possible only where outlet, and the fan housing. See Figure 8.2. Sound
circumstances permitted simulation of a laboratory radiated from the fan inlet and outlet is approximately
setup, i.e., a reverberant or semi-reverberant room, at the same sound power level. Sound radiated by
suitable duct connections and the use of a calibrated the housing is normally at a lower sound power level
Reference Sound Source. than that radiated from either the fan inlet or outlet. If
the fan inlet(s) and/or outlet are ducted, some of the
Field measurements of sound pressure level near the sound is radiated into the system while some of the
fan will be useful as a means of determining the sound is transmitted through the duct wall to the
acoustic level at the point of measurement, but will, in surroundings. In the case of forced draft fans with
general, be impractical as a test of the rating open inlets or inlet boxes, sound passes directly
accuracy of the fan. through the openings to the surroundings. When
sound transmission through the fan housing and
At the present state-of-the-art, in-duct measurement ductwork is important, the acoustical characteristics
of sound pressure levels in field installations is not of expansion joints should be considered. Typical
considered an acceptable technique for the expansion joint construction will result in a much
determination of the acoustic performance of the fan. lower transmission loss than normal fan housing or
ductwork construction. The result is higher sound
Directivity is an important factor to installed, on-site transmission through the expansion joint. The sound
25
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
SOUND MEASURED
AT 1 WILL BE A
LOWER VALUE
THAN AT 2,
DUE TO HIGHER
DIRECTIVITY
1 AT LOCATION 2
2
FAN
OPEN
FAN INLET/OUTLET
OR SIMILAR *DIRECTED* SOURCE
Figure 8.1 - Directivity
SOUND
RADIATED
INTO INLET
DUCTWORK
SOUND RADIATED
THROUGH
FLEXIBLE
CONNECTIONS
TRANSITION
SOUND
SOUND RADIATED OUTLET
RADIATED INTO OUTLET DUCT
FROM DUCTWORK
CASING
SOUND RADIATED
FROM DRIVETRAIN
STRUCTURALLY
TRANSMITTED
SOUND
ENERGY
Figure 8.2 - Sound Paths
26
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
SILENCER
TRANSITION
FORCED DRAFT FANS IN

ACOUSTICAL ENCLOSURE
INLET
BOX DIFFUSER
CENTRIFUGAL AXIAL FORCED DRAFT FAN

FORCED DRAFT FAN WITH INLET BOX SILENCERS
WITH INLET BOX
SILENCERS
Figure 8.3 - Typical Methods of Silencing Forced Draft Fans
POSSIBLE LOCATIONS-
ABSORPTIVE SILENCING
AXIAL FANS
CENTRIFUGAL FANS
Figure 8.4 - Typical Methods of Silencing Induced Draft Fans
27
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
radiating from the fan housing is transmitted directly rise, voltage, speed, frequency etc. When operated
to the surroundings. For effective sound control, it is within the prescribed tolerances for voltage and
necessary to consider all three of the sound paths in frequency, a motor will operate satisfactorily and
accordance with the amount of sound power being maintain its expected service life as long as the
transmitted via all three paths. windings do not overheat. Winding overheating
causes premature insulation failure and reduced
8.7.1 Attenuation of forced draft fans. The motor service life. The winding temperature is the
following methods have been used successfully to sum of the ambient temperature, the temperature rise
reduce forced draft fan sound: due to the load on the motor, and a hot spot
allowance that is a function of the type of enclosure
8.7.1.1 Fan inlet silencers attached directly to the fan selected. Some deviation from nameplate values is
inlet box(es). (See Figure 8.3.) possible as long as the windings do not overheat.
Consult the motor manufacturer for further information.
8.7.1.2 Acoustical enclosures (rooms) built around
the fan(s). (See Figure 8.3.) 9.1.1 Service factor. Motor service factor is a
measure of the overload that a motor can carry for an
8.7.1.3 Outlet Silencers. Forced draft fans are rarely extended period of time when the voltage and
equipped with an outlet silencer. frequency are maintained at the rated values
specified on the motor nameplate. The service factor
8.7.1.4 Acoustic treatment of the fan housing and/or is expressed as the ratio of the overload power to the
ductwork. Acoustic treatment can be affected by rated full-load power. A service factor greater than 1.0
heavier thickness walls, lagging with fibrous can provide a margin of safety for variations in the
materials and light gauge steel covering, concrete, load on the fan that is connected to the motor, such
etc. as that resulting from variations in the density of the
air through the fan. A motor operating continuously at
8.7.2 Attenuation of induced draft fans. The any service factor greater than 1.0 will have a
following methods have been used successfully to reduced life expectancy compared to operating at its
reduce induced draft fan sound: rated nameplate power. Insulation and bearing life
are reduced by the service factor load. It is not
8.7.2.1 Silencers placed near the fan outlet will intended that service factor be used as a means of
reduce the sound being radiated into the stack. (See continuously overloading a motor by purposely
Figure 8.4.) under-sizing the motor for the fan requirement.
When it is expected that periods of operation may
8.7.2.2 The use of silencing elements within the stack occur when the fan would overload the motor for
can reduce the sound radiating from the stack. (See extended periods of time, it is important to specify the
Figure 8.4.) service factor required.
8.7.2.3 Acoustic treatment of the fan housing and/or 9.1.2 Air-over capability. Some fan applications
ductwork is effective here as stated earlier for forced utilize the motor in the airstream. The air velocity over
draft fans. the surface of the motor carries away heat from the
motor windings. This may allow a reduction in the
9. Motor Sizing Considerations frame size of the motor from that typically used for
the required fan load while staying within the same
Fans are driven by many different power sources maximum winding temperature limits. This allows
such as gas engines and turbines; however, the more power to be supplied by the motor for the same
source most frequently used is the electric motor. maximum winding temperature. Heat rise tests are
Like the fan and system, which are in equilibrium with generally conducted in a specific fan design and over
each other throughout their operating range, the fan a specified operating range. Motor cooling is
and motor must also each operate satisfactorily dependent upon maintaining adequate airflow over
under all conditions. This section outlines those items the motor. When a fan utilizes this air-over capability,
which must be considered when sizing a motor to any replacement of the motor should not be made
drive a fan. without first consulting the fan manufacturer.
9.1 Motor capability 9.2 Aerodynamic considerations
Motors are manufactured in accordance with IEC and The following sections briefly identify areas where
NEMA standards and are categorized by frame size, fan/motor incompatibility can occur due to
type of enclosure, class of insulation, temperature aerodynamic causes.
28
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
9.2.1 Variations in air density. A fan's output and 9.2.4 Fan rating tolerances. Consult Section 4.4 for
power requirement have a direct linear relationship to a discussion of rating tolerances and their effect.
the density of the air entering the fan inlet. If the air
density drops, then the fan's output and power 9.2.5 Fan thrust. Fan impellers on SWSI fans or
requirements also drop. The reverse is also true. DWDI fans with uneven loads to each inlet produce a
Motors can overload when the air density increases, thrust force in the axial direction along the driveline.
such as in cold weather, or when the quantity of For most fan arrangements the fan bearings are
particulate matter in the air increases. designed to constrain this thrust. However, for
Arrangement 4 fans where the impeller is fastened to
For fans handling ambient air, and where the fan and the motor shaft, the motor bearings must constrain
motor are located in the same environment, the this force. The motor manufacturer should know the
motor is less likely to overheat because the motor impeller weight, its center of gravity, and the amount
capability increases faster than the fan load and direction of axial thrust in order to evaluate the
assuming a constant point of operation. However, if suitability of the motor.
the motor was located in an equipment room and
only the fan experienced the colder air, the motor 9.3 Mechanical considerations
could overload since the motor ambient did not
change with a corresponding increase in fan load. Several mechanical considerations involving physical
aspects of a fan application must be evaluated when
The power required versus the power available from sizing a motor. Some of the most common ones are
the motor should be evaluated for the entire described as follows.
anticipated range of operation. Fans handling hot
process gases at operating conditions may require 9.3.1 Drive train losses. Fan shaft power is the
special airflow controls during cold start-up power to drive the fan including bearing losses;
conditions so as to not seriously overload the motor. however, it does not include losses for other
accessories in the drive train. (See Section 4.2.1.)
9.2.2 Variations in the system. Design margins that
may be included in the initial system resistance 9.3.2 Variable frequency controllers. Ensure that
calculations can cause the fan to operate at another the motor and the controller are compatible with the
location on the fan curve than the intended design fan system and with each other. A variable frequency
point. Depending upon the slope and shape of the controller simulates the normal AC voltage sine
fan curve, the power required may be larger than wave. This simulation is not perfect and some factors
expected and the motor could overload if not enough are: review motor controlled overheating, torsional
margin was left between the fan power required and resonances, compatibility, pulsations, starting torque.
the motor capability. The use of high efficiency motors can help minimize
this increase in heat load.
System damper controls or other controls that are
supplied as part of the fan are routinely used to 9.3.3 Motor slip. Slip is a term that describes the
change system flow rates, very often over a wide percentage of difference between the synchronous
range. This changes the fan/system operating point speed and the actual speed of the motor under load.
so that the motor should be sized for the maximum Different motors have different values of slip. Specify
power required over the operating range being this full load speed when sizing v-belt drives or direct
considered. For more information, refer to AMCA connected fans. If slip is not considered, the fan may
Publication 200 Air Systems. not run at the selected speed.
9.2.3 System Effects. Fan ratings are based upon 9.3.4 Motor shaft sizes. Different motor frame sizes
tests conducted in a laboratory using ANSI/AMCA use different shaft diameters and lengths which may
210. This standard specifies test setup configurations limit the bore and/or width of various sheaves. Check
so that accurate and repeatable test results are for drive compatibility between the motor shaft and
obtained. When a fan is installed in the field, the inlet the fan shaft.
and outlet system connections can cause distorted
velocity profiles that alter the expected fan 9.3.5 Motor bearing life. Specify a motor bearing life
performance. Test programs have demonstrated that consistent with the specified fan bearing life.
depending upon the severity of the distortion and Consideration should be given to make sure that the
whether there is swirl in the airstream opposite to the belt pull and axial thrust loads applied to the motor
direction of impeller rotation, fan power requirements shaft and bearings do not materially reduce motor
may be larger than expected. For more information bearing life. The motor manufacturer can supply
on system effects, refer to AMCA Publication 201 bearing life when given the appropriate information.
Fans and Systems.
29
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
9.3.6 Fan starting requirements. Fan equipment 10.2 Quality assurance department
inertia must be overcome in order to bring the fan up
to speed. The time taken to accelerate the fan to full The Quality Assurance Department necessarily has
speed must be within the motor winding limitations or sufficient authority and organizational freedom to
the life of the motor will be reduced. It is important to actively identify quality problems, to initiate,
know the fan inertia, the speed torque curve, the recommend, or provide solutions, and to verify
motor capability and allowable starting time for the implementation of the solutions. The Quality
motor and the starter. Contact the motor Assurance Manager also must have direct access to
manufacturer for this information. the president of the company, and the authority to
"hold" any operation or product when, in his/her
The torque available from the motor must be greater judgment, such action is deemed necessary to
than that required by the fan from zero speed up to assure product quality.
full speed. If it is not, the fan will not reach full speed.
11. Spare Parts
9.3.7 Limited end-float coupling. A motor equipped
with sleeve bearings will seek its magnetic center In many applications the fan is a critical component in
when the motor is energized. The centering involves a process where minimal downtime is a major
an axial shift of the rotor, with the potential for contact maintenance requirement. When continuous fan
between the motor's rotor and stator. The limited end- operation is vital, it is recommended that spare parts
float coupling prevents such contact by physical be kept available for emergencies. This may include
limitation of the rotor's axial travel. bearings, motors, shaft seals, v-belts; and in some
cases impellers and shafts.
9.3.8 Thermal expansion. Motors with large frames
will expand from their cold dimensions due to higher Spare parts may be specified with the original
actual operating temperature. An allowance for this equipment or may be purchased later as required. If
expansion should be incorporated into the initial they are purchased at a later date, the part
fan/motor alignment by setting the motor slightly low description, serial number and other nameplate data
compared to the fan shaft. should be provided to the original equipment
manufacturer to be assured of obtaining the correct
10. Quality Assurance components.
It is generally recognized that high quality products 12. Storage or Long Shutdowns
can only result from a formal systematic approach to
quality assurance. Specifications should require that Depending upon size, fan equipment may be shipped
the fan manufacturer have in place at all times a from the factory either assembled as a unit or as sub-
written quality program in the form of a Quality assemblies. The fan manufacturer provides sufficient
Assurance Manual, and that the manufacturer protection for shipping the equipment to the jobsite.
demonstrate adherence to the program. However, if the equipment is not installed and
operated within several days, additional precautions
10.1 Quality assurance manual are necessary.
The Quality Assurance Manual should contain, as a Specifications should identify any conditions
minimum, written and approved procedures for: associated with non-use or storage of the equipment.
Precautions may include specifying added protection
Organization by the fan manufacturer such as special crating, rust
Design Control preventative on bare metal parts, special wrapping
Procurement Control using plastic or tarps, silica gel bags to limit moisture
Document Control and special covers over the inlets/outlets.
Material Control
Control of Special Processes Once the equipment has arrived at the jobsite but is
Inspection and Inspection Status not either installed or placed in operation, the rotor
Test Control (impeller and shaft) should be rotated by hand
Control of Measuring and Test Equipment periodically to re-coat all lubricated parts with grease
Handling, Storage, and Shipping and to minimize brinnelling in anti-friction bearings.
Control of Non-Conformances For assembled fans located in a dirty/moist/cold
Corrective Actions location, the equipment should be covered and
Quality Assurance Records bearings filled with grease to minimize contamination
Audits from outside elements. Motors should be stored
30
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
according to the specific instructions of the motor should be identified and evidence of validation of the
manufacturer. program should be provided. Specification
considerations may include: minimum number of
13. Analyses Available for Fans nodes/elements, should hub be included in analysis,
size of sector employed.
Certain fan applications may be deemed by the user
to be critical in nature. For such applications, a high 13.1.1.2 Design criteria. Type of stresses to be
degree of reliability in the mechanical integrity of the measured should be defined (Von Mises, Maximum
fan may be desired. Some users feel that this can be Principal, etc.) and acceptance criteria versus
achieved through the use of state-of-the-art analytical material strength should be defined.
techniques, employed for the specific application.
These techniques, if so specified, would be used by 13.1.1.3 Report requirements. Format of analysis
the fan manufacturer to prepare a specific written results should be defined. Considerations might
report. This is typically prepared after receipt of order include: Stress contour plots of all impeller
but prior to release of components for manufacture components on all surfaces, a tabulation of the
so that any design modifications required can be highest stresses in each component, and a
made with the smallest possible impact. description of boundary conditions.
It should be noted that many of the analytical 13.1.2 Finite element modal analysis (FEMA)
techniques described will add considerable cost to
the final fan product provided. For this reason, AMCA 13.1.2.1 Analytical requirements. The analysis
recommends that analysis be specified only on should identify all resonant frequencies and
applications deemed critical by the user. corresponding mode shapes in the fan impeller
between 0 and 125% of blade pass frequency at
It should also be noted that these state-of-the-art maximum speed.
analytical techniques are design tools that are
employed by many fan manufacturers to refine the 13.1.2.2 Design criteria. An analysis of the identified
designs of their products on an ongoing basis, frequencies should be conducted to determine if any
without specification requirement. However, any time are detrimental and those detrimental frequencies
a specific analysis and formal report must be should be avoided.
prepared for a customer there will be costs incurred
that would be expected to be passed on to the user 13.1.2.3 Report requirements. Report format should
specifying this requirement. Several different be defined. Consideration should be given to
analyses are listed below. requesting tabulation of frequencies and descriptions
of mode shapes with evaluation of detrimental
Analytical techniques available fall into two modes, requesting mode shape plots with mode
categories: analysis of the fan impeller only and description and requiring a description of boundary
analysis of the fan rotor (impeller and shaft) and conditions.
supporting structure. This section describes the
analytical techniques available for each category and 13.1.3 Low cycle fatigue analysis
includes a discussion of the considerations that must
be made in preparing a specification that would 13.1.3.1 Analytical requirements. The analysis
specifically outline requirements for an analysis should determine the low cycle fatigue life at the area
including design criteria and report requirements. of maximum stress.
Definitions of many items are found under Section
3.2, Design Criteria. 13.1.3.2 Design criteria. The expected equipment
operation cycle and lifetime should be identified by
13.1 Analysis of the fan impeller only the user. The analysis should prove that the design is
adequate for specified conditions. The operation
These analytical techniques address the integrity of cycle should identify the number of stop-start cycles,
the fan impeller with respect to rotational stress, the number of speed change cycles and extent of
cyclical loading and natural frequencies of the speed changes.
impeller.
13.1.3.3 Report requirements. Consideration
13.1.1 Finite element stress analysis (FEA) should be given to the following issues: requiring a
tabulation of maximum stress and a statement of
13.1.1.1 Analytical requirements. The finite corresponding fatigue life, or providing a description
element program used for stress and modal analysis of methodology for fatigue analysis.
31
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
13.1.4 Fracture mechanics analysis system, tabulation identifying the mass moment
torsional stiffness for each component in the mass
13.1.4.1 Analytical requirements. The analysis elastic system, graphic display of torsional critical
should provide critical flaw size calculation for the speeds and deflection.
highest stressed areas of the impeller.
14. Information Necessary to Properly
13.1.4.2 Design criteria. Consideration should be Select a Fan
given to requiring an analysis that shows that a given
flaw size does not achieve critical size during Good communication should exist between the fan
expected life of the impeller. manufacturer and the consulting engineer or user if
the best fan is to be selected for a particular
13.1.4.3 Report requirements. The report should application. Information relating to system operating
provide calculation of critical flaw size and growth of conditions as well as specific preferences in
flaw given in the Design Criteria above. construction is essential to the fan manufacturer.
This is usually accomplished through use of the
13.2 Analysis of the fan rotor and supporting specification.
structure
The following information is needed by a fan
13.2.1 Shaft critical/design resonant/installed manufacturer in order to select a fan which will meet
resonant speed analysis the preferences of the customer and provide
satisfactory operation in meeting system
13.2.1.1 Analytical requirements. The analysis requirements.
should provide a calculation of shaft critical speed,
design resonant speed, or installed resonant speed. 14.1 General information
If an analysis of installed resonant speed is required,
the user must supply information concerning A) Number of systems
foundation mass, size and stiffness and subsoil
stiffness and damping. B) Number of fans per system
13.2.1.2 Design criteria. The shaft critical speed, C) Equipment life required
design resonant speed or installed resonant speed
should meet a specified ratio when compared to D) Site elevation, m (ft)
operating speed. The analysis should include all
pertinent considerations affecting the design. E) Application
13.2.1.3 Report requirements. The report may F) Fan location (inside, outside) and ambient
include a complete description of method used. conditions
Design resonant and installed resonant speed
analysis may also include: a tabular or graphic G) Fan type
display of rotor response to unbalance and a report of
the stiffness and damping coefficients used. H) Fan arrangement
13.2.2 Torsional analysis of rotor, coupling and I) Fan control (variable frequency controller,
drive(s) variable speed drive, variable inlet vanes, inlet
box dampers, etc.)
13.2.2.1 Analytical requirements. The analysis
should provide a calculation of the torsional critical J) Items to be supplied by fan manufacturer (evasé,
silencers, drive, etc.)
speed of rotor, coupling and driver(s) and all other
pertinent considerations affecting the design.
K) Prime mover (motor, turbine, etc.)
13.2.2.2 Design criteria. The torsional critical speed
L) Dust load and particle sizing at fan inlet
should be removed from operating speed by a given
percentage, both above and below operating speed.
M) Load cycle (time at each load condition)
13.2.2.3 Report requirements. The report should N) Evaluated cost of power at operating loads
include a complete description of method used.
Consideration should also be given to requiring the O) No. of start/stops anticipated
following information: graphic display of mass-elastic
32
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
P) Earthquake/seismic zone B) Bearings
14.2 Performance requirements 1) Preferred bearing type (anti-friction, sleeve)
A) Load (design point, reduced loads) 2) Special thrust requirements
B) Mass flow, kg/hr/fan (lbm/hr/fan) 3) Preferred bearing cooling

a) Natural
C) Air density, kg/m3 (lbm/ft3), at all operating points b) Air cooled
c) Water cooled
D) Barometric pressure, Pa (in. Hg), at job site. d) Oil circulation with air or water cooling
E) Air analysis (at all operating points) 4) Maximum and minimum ambient temperatures
F) Specific heat ratio 5) Maximum and minimum cooling water

temperatures available
G) Inlet volume, m3/s (ft3/min), per fan.
6) Cooling water analysis (sediments, solids,
H) Inlet duct static pressure, Pa (in. wg). salinity)
I) Inlet duct area, m2 (ft2). (See Figure 8.1.) 7) Bearing shaft seals
J) Discharge duct static pressure, Pa (in. wg). 8) Temperature sensing devices (metal or oil
temperature)
K) Discharge duct area (m2 or ft2 ). (See Figure 8.1.)
9) Vibration monitoring devices
L) Estimated length of inlet and discharge
transitions. (See Figure 8.1.) C) Pedestals and soleplates
M) Inlet temperature (at ALL operating points) 1) Independent bearing pedestals
N) Preferred fan speed (rpm) 2) Soleplates for mounting on the foundation
O) Provision for evasé/diffuser (yes/no) D) Housing and inlet box(es)
P) Future demand/load conditions 1) Special material and minimum gauge
14.3 Construction and special requirements 2) Flanged terminal connections for bolting or
seal welding to ductwork
A) Fan rotating assembly
3) Drains in casing and box(es)
1) Type of impeller (axial, centrifugal)
4) Special shaft seals
2) Type of blading (airfoil, backward inclined,
radial) 5) Erosion protection
3) Corrosion and/or erosion protection 6) Insulation studs
4) Minimum first critical speed of impeller and shaft 7) Inlet screens
5) Minimum design resonant speed 8) Rotation, discharge, and inlet box orientation
6) Peak design and operating temperatures, °C E) Coupling

(°F)
1) Coupling type
7) Expected rate of design temperature change,
°C (°F) 2) Special coupling guard
8) Special analytical requirements and F) Motor / driver

acceptance criteria
33
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
1) Type of driver 14.7 Spare parts requirements
2) Special requirements 14.8 Storage requirements
3) Control system 15. Information Necessary to Properly

Evaluate a Fan Proposal
G) Turning gear
Either centrifugal or axial fan designs can often be
1) Capable of starting rotor from rest or picking proposed for the same application. It may be very
up on the run
difficult for a customer to properly evaluate the best
fan for his particular application because of different
2) Minimum speed required
practices between fan companies and variations in
fan designs. This section outlines the general
H) Impeller cleaning devices
approach used in presenting performance and data
1) Cleaning medium design.
Air
Steam 15.1 Fan rating practice
Water
Fans should be rated in fan static pressure or fan
a) Pressure and temperature of cleaning total pressure in accordance with ANSI/AMCA 210.
medium available In this publication the fan inlet is noted as Plane 1
and the fan outlet is Plane 2. Everything between
I) Special paint requirements these planes is defined as being "the fan" and all
performance curves should illustrate fan static
14.4 Sound requirements pressure or fan total pressure based upon these two
planes. In most instances a customer lists his system
A) Sound radiated through fan housing requirements and requests that the fan manufacturer
supply additional accessories such as silencers or
1) Maximum dBA and distance from fan. dampers. The pressure losses for these items must
be considered. If the fan manufacturer supplies these
2) Measurement location relative to inlet or outlet accessories, their losses will be added to the system
for maximum dBA (distance and height). requirements and the fan selected for the sum of the
pressure losses. Consequently, all performance
B) Sound radiated through the fan inlet and outlet curves will show a rating point that includes the
original system requirements plus accessory losses.
1) Maximum dBA and distance from fan (See Figure 15.1.)
2) Measurement location relative to inlet or outlet Although performance curves from individual fan
for maximum dBA (distance and height). companies will vary in format, the basic information
listed on Figure 15.1 will be needed to properly
C) Sound attenuation evaluate one fan type versus another and one
company's products versus another. This information
1) Inlet silencers should be included with all performance curves.
2) Outlet silencers
15.2 Recommended fan proposal
3) Housing sound insulation
A fan proposal generally includes a rating and a
14.5 Test requirements corresponding performance curve together with
detailed information concerning major aspects of
A) Documentation required construction. A recommended tabulation of the
minimum information needed to properly evaluate
B) Inspection/witness requirements one fan versus another is included in this section as
data sheets covering Section 15.2.1 through Section
14.6 Quality assurance 15.2.5.6, inclusive. Further information may be
included but is generally not required to make an
A) Documentation required evaluation.
B) Inspection/witness requirements
34
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
INLET
DUCT
TRANSITION
L1
PLANE 1
OUTLET
INLET
DUCT
BOX DIFFUSER TRANSITION
AXIAL FAN L2
PLANE 2
INLET
DUCT
L1 TRANSITION
PLANE 1
OUTLET
DUCT
TRANSITION
L2
PLANE 2
CENTRIFUGAL
FAN
The fan inlet and outlet locations are Plane 1 and Plane 2, respectively. The customer or consulting engineer does
not know the fan inlet or outlet areas, and is, therefore, unable to accurately calculate the final static or total
pressure corresponding to these planes. However, in most instances, the customer will know the velocity range or
area associated with the ductwork. For this reason, information supplied to the fan manufacturer should be the duct
system values. The fan manufacturer can calculate the required pressure at Plane 1 and 2 using the appropriate
fan areas and the estimated length of the transition piece between the fan and the ductwork.
Figure 14.1 - Pressure Location Definitions for Section 14.2.7 through 14.2.13
35
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
TYPICAL RATING POINT FAN STATIC OR FAN TOTAL PRESSURE

DESIGNATION FOR AXIAL BETWEEN PLANES 1 & 2
OR CENTRIFUGAL FANS
ACCESSORY LOSSES
PRESSURE
(SILENCERS, DAMPERS, ETC.)
SYSTEM PRESSURE REQUIREMENTS
FLOW
PRESSURE
POWER
a
b PRESSURE
c EFFICIENCY
PRESSURE
PRESSURE
POWER
a
d
b
c
d c b a d
FLOW FLOW
TYPICAL CENTRIFUGAL TYPICAL AXIAL
FAN CURVE FAN CURVE
MINIMUM INFORMATION TO BE INCLUDED ON PERFORMANCE CURVES
1. Size
2. Impeller diameter
3. Type
4. Speed
5. Inlet density
6. Fan inlet area (Plane 1)
7. Fan outlet area (Plane 2)
8. Method of control
9. Control positions corresponding to performance data, i.e., a, b, c, d
10. Typical AMCA configuration
11. Statement listing what accessory losses are included in the performance data and their
magnitude (dampers, silencers, etc.)
Figure 15.1 - Recommended Presentation of Performance Data
36
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
15.2.1 General
Customer ________________________________ Proposal Reference _______________________________
User _____________________________________________________________________________________
Date __________________________________________
Destination ________________________________________________________________________________
Application ________________________________________________________________________________
No. of Systems ________________________ No. of Fans per System ___________________________
Type (model/series)_________________________ Arrangement ____________________________________
Control __________________________________ Life Required ____________________________________
FAN OPERATING POINTS

15.2.2 Performance per fan at job site
Fan speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Mass flow, kg/hr (lbm/hr) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Elevation, meters (feet) above sea level . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Barometric pressure, Pa (in. Hg) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Inlet density, kg/m3 (lbm/ft3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Inlet airflow rate, Q1, m3/s (cfm) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Inlet total pressure, Pt1, Pa (in. wg) (Plane 1) . . . . . . . . . . .:
Inlet static pressure, Ps1, Pa (in. wg) (Plane 1) . . . . . . . . .:
Discharge total pressure, Pt2, Pa (in. wg) (Plane 2) . . . . . .:
Discharge static pressure, Ps2, Pa (in. wg) (Plane 2) . . . .:
Inlet temperature, tt1, °C (°F) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Fan total pressure, Pt, Pa (in. wg) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Fan static pressure, Ps, Pa (in. wg) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Power at fan shaft, kW (HP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Fan total efficiency, ηt % . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Fan static efficiency, ηs % . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .:
Performance based on an Evasé area of _________ m2 (ft2) (supplied/not supplied) by fan manufacturer
37
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
15.2.3 Sound data
LW sound power level, dB (re 10-12 watt)
Octave Band 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Center Frequency, Hz 63 125 250 500 1000 2000 4000 8000
Estimated LW, dB
Estimated sound pressure level__________________ dBA at ______________________ meters (feet) from fan
in a hemispherical free field.
Inlet silencer included/not included in above estimate
Outlet silencer included/not included in above estimate
Casing insulation included/not included in above estimate
15.2.4 Centrifugal fan construction data
15.2.4.1 Rotor (impeller assembled on shaft)
Impeller:
Diameter: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _________________________________ mm (in.)
Blade type: ______________________ (airfoil/backward inclined etc.) Number_________________
Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ______________, thickness: ________ mm (in.)
Centerplate/backplate material . . . . . . . . . . . .: ______________, thickness: ________ mm (in.)
Shroud material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ______________, thickness: ________ mm (in.)
Wear protection:
Blade material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ______________, thickness: ________ mm (in.)
Centerplate/backplate material . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ______________, thickness: ________ mm (in.)
Hub: Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _______________________________________
Shaft:
Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _______________________________________
Diameter at hub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _________________________________ mm (in.)
Diameter at bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . : _________________________________ mm (in.)
Bearing centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _________________________________ mm (in.)
38
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
Weight of rotor (impeller and shaft) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________________________kg (lbm)
WK2 of rotor (impeller and shaft) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________________________kg•m2 (lbm•ft2)
First critical speed rotor (impeller and shaft) . . . . . . . . .: ________________________________rpm
15.2.4.2 Bearings
Diameter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ___________________________________ mm (in.)
Type (babbitted sleeve/anti-friction) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ___________________________________
Lubrication (grease, oil sump, circulating oil) . . . . . . . . .: ___________________________________
Cooling (ambient air/forced air/circ. oil/water) . . . . . . . .: ___________________________________
Oil circulating system (included/not included) . . . . . . . . .: ___________________________________
15.2.4.3 Bearing pedestals
Material: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: __________________________________________
Soleplate material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: __________________________________________
15.2.4.4 Housing and inlet boxes
Scroll material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________, thickness: __________ mm (in,)
Housing sideplate material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________, thickness: __________ mm (in.)
Inlet box material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________, thickness: __________ mm (in.)
Scroll liner material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________, thickness: __________ mm (in.)
Housing sideplate liner material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________, thickness: __________ mm (in.)
Liner depth from scroll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ____________________________________ mm (in.)
15.2.4.5 Flow control and isolation damper
Inlet vane control torque (maximum) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: __________________________________ N•m (lbf•ft)
Inlet box damper torque (maximum) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: __________________________________ N•m (lbf•ft)
Outlet damper torque (maximum) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: __________________________________ N•m (lbf•ft)
15.2.4.6 Flexible coupling
Manufacturer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ___________________________________________
Type and Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ___________________________________________
39
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
15.2.4.7 Special items _______________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
15.2.5 Axial fan construction data
15.2.5.1 Impeller
Diameter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _________________________ mm (in.)
Number of blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _________________________
Blade type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _________________________ (airfoil/plate)
Blade material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _________________________
Blade wear protection material: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _______________, thickness: ____________ mm (in.)
Hub material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _______________, diameter: ____________ mm (in.)
Shaft material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _____________________________________
Weight of rotor (impeller and shaft) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _______________________________ kg (lbs)
WK2 of rotor (impeller and shaft) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: _______________________________ kg•m2 (lbm•ft2)
First critical speed of rotor (impeller and shaft) . . . . . . .: _______________________________ rpm
15.2.5.2 Bearings
Diameter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ____________________________________ mm (in.)
Type (babbitted sleeve/anti-friction) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ____________________________________
Lubrication (grease, oil sump, circulating oil) . . . . . . . . .: ____________________________________
Cooling (ambient air/forced air/ circ. oil/water) . . . . . . . .: ____________________________________
Oil circulating system (included/not included) . . . . . . . . .: ____________________________________
15.2.5.3 Casing and inlet box
Inlet box material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________, thickness: ___________ mm (in.)
Impeller casing material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________, thickness: ___________ mm (in.)
Diffuser material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________, thickness: ___________ mm (in.)
40
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
15.2.5.4. Flow control and isolation damper
Variable pitch actuator torque . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ___________________________ N•m (lbf•ft)
Inlet vane control torque (maximum) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ___________________________ N•m (lbf•ft)
Isolating damper torque (maximum) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ___________________________ N•m (lbf•ft)
Blade pitch actuating system (included/not included) . . .: ________________________________________
15.2.5.5 Flexible coupling
Manufacturer: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________________________________
Type and Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: ________________________________________
15.2.5.6 Special items ______________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
15.3 Dimensional information the equipment selling price, installation and start-up
expenses, cost of power, maintenance costs, etc. A
Detailed dimensional drawings are not required in common method of making this comparison is to
order to make a fan comparison. A typical dimension conduct a Present Worth analysis, where the total
print suitable for proposals is shown in this section for expenses over the anticipated life of the equipment
an axial and centrifugal fan. (See Figures 15.2 and are reflected to their value at the time the order is
15.3.) placed. This permits a single number comparison of
the proposals.
15.4 Typical AMCA configurations
It is important to note that fan manufacturers can offer
In an effort to clarify and define the responsibilities a wide variety of methods for control of the load
existing between fan manufacturer and the conditions (variable inlet vanes, inlet dampers,
consulting engineer or user, typical fan configurations variable speed drives, etc.). Careful specification of
are shown in Figures 15.4 and 15.5. These the load cycle and operating conditions combined
configurations illustrate the fan inlet (Plane 1) and the with economic analysis of power costs can be useful
fan outlet (Plane 2). The fan rating is based upon in evaluating the suitability of a particular control
values of pressure between these two planes and, scheme.
therefore, represents the responsibility of the fan
manufacturer. It is recommended all performance For critical applications, it may be advisable to obtain
information relating to the proposal should make frequency of repair information along with spare parts
reference to the applicable AMCA configuration pricing and delivery information from the
contained in this publication. It should be noted that manufacturer. The costs of these parts can then be
the configuration illustrated does not alter the AMCA evaluated against down time expenses in the
standard fan drive arrangement numbering system economic analysis.
i.e., Arrangement 1, Arrangement 3, etc.
15.5 Economic evaluation
When evaluating a fan proposal, it is advisable to

compare all costs associated with the proposal
against the other offerings. These costs will include
41
42
A INSIDE
K L
B INSIDE INLET BOX
INLET BOX J
INLET
BOX
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
C
E DIFFUSER
INSIDE
OUTLET
AIR
D2
FLOW
F
TYPICAL AMCA FAN CONFIGURATION FOR:

SIZE A B C D2 E F J L R K
SPECIAL NOTES & COMMENTS:

SERVICE:
Figure 15.2 - Typical Dimensional Print for Proposal - Axial Fan

DIMENSIONS ARE FOR REFERENCE ONLY
MECHANICAL DRAFT AXIAL FANS
TYPE HORIZONTAL
BY:
COMPANY
DATE:
NAME & ADDRESS
DRAWING NO:
R L E
S INS.
N
M M
INS. INS.
C
G
INS.
A
INS.
INS.
B
H F
T.H. D.B. U.B. B.H. T.A.U. T.A.D. B.A.U. B.A.D.
TYPICA AMCA FAN CONFIGURATION

FAN STD. L M
SIZE WHL.DIA. A B C E F G H J N R S
SPECIAL NOTES & COMMENTS: FOR: DIMENSIONS ARE FOR REFERENCE ONLY
MECHANICAL DRAFT
Figure 15.3 - Typical Dimensional Print for Proposal - Centrifugal Fan

CENTRIFUGAL FANS
BY:
SERVICE: DATE: COMPANY
NAME & ADDRESS
DRAWING NO:
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
43
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
2 2
1 1
EVASÉ
A B
2 2
1 1
INLET INLET
BOX BOX
EVASÉ
C D
1 1
SILENCER SILENCER
2 2
TRANSITION TRANSITION
INLET INLET
BOX BOX
EVASÉ
E F
Notes:
1) The fan inlet is shown as Plane 1

2) The fan outlet is shown as Plane 2
3) If the fan manufacturer supplies the accessories shown (to include inlet vanes and large shafts), their losses
will be added to the system requirements and the fan selected including the sum of the pressure losses.
Figure 15.4 - Typical Centrifugal Fan Configuration for Rating Purposes
44
AMCA 801-01 (R2007)
1 2 1 2
BELL BELL
MOUTH MOUTH
INLET
FAN DIFFUSER TRANSITION FAN DIFFUSER
A B
2 2
1 1
INLET INLET
BOX FAN DIFFUSER TRANSITION BOX FAN DIFFUSER
C D
2 2
SILENCER SILENCER
TRANSITION TRANSITION
1 1 INLET
INLET
BOX BOX FAN DIFFUSER
FAN DIFFUSER TRANSITION
F
E
SILENCER
2
TRANSITION
1 DISCHARGE
INLET ELBOW
BOX FAN DIFFUSER TRANSITION
Notes:
1) The fan inlet is shown as Plane 1

2) The fan outlet is shown as Plane 2
3) If the fan manufacturer supplies the accessories shown (to include inlet vanes and large shafts), their losses
will be added to the system requirements and the fan selected including the sum of the pressure losses.
Figure 15.5 - Typical Axial Flow Fan Configuration for Rating Purposes
45
AIR MOVEMENT AND CONTROL
ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.
Tel: (847) 394-0150 Fax: (847) 253-0088
E-Mail : info@amca.org Web: www.amca.org
The Air Movement and control Association International, Inc. is a not-for-profit international association of the
world’s manufacturers of related air system equipment primarily, but limited to: fans, louvers, dampers, air
curtains, airflow measurement stations, acoustic attenuators, and other air system components for the industrial,
commercial and residential markets.

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AMCA

Industrial Process/Power Generation

AIR MOVEMENT AND CONTROL

The International Authority on Air System Components

Industrial Process/Power Generation Fans:

Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc.

AMCA 801 Review Committee

Maxson S. Clarke, Chair Greenheck Fan Corporation

James T. Greenzweig ABB Fan Group North America

Steve Pence Loren Cook Company

Don Phelps Phelps Fan, Inc.

George Johnston TLT-Babcock, Inc.

Govind Shah Twin City Fan Companies, Ltd.

Paul R. Saxon AMCA International Staff

Objections to AMCA Standards and Certifications Programs

Air Movement and Control Association International

AMCA International, Incorporated

For Air Performance:

For Balance and Vibration:

Industrial Process / Power Generation Series:

AMCA Publication 801 Industrial Process/Power Generation Fans: Specification Guidelines

Fan Application Manual:

AMCA Publication 200 Air Systems

AMCA Publication 201 Fans and Systems

AMCA Publication 202 Troubleshooting

AMCA Publication 203 Field Performance Measurement of Fan Systems

3.1 Rating criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

3.2 Design criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

3.3 Special features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

3.4 Sound criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

4. Testing and Rating Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

4.1 Laboratory test method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

4.2 Effects of appurtenances on fan performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

4.3 Scaling effects and fan laws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

4.4 Rating tolerances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

4.5 Performance testing techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

4.6 Mechanical tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

5.1 Single fan operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

5.2 Parallel fan operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

5.3 Balance and vibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

5.4 Duct vibrations and pulsations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

5.5 Implosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

6. Erosion, Corrosion and Build-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

6.1 Erosion/corrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

6.2 Build-up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

7.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

7.2 Locations of leakage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

7.4 Designing for low leakage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

7.5 Verifying leakage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

7.6 Associated issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

8. Fan Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

8.1 Applicable sound publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

8.2 Acoustical terminology and symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

8.3 Laboratory test methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

8.4 Sound power level conversion methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

8.5 Prediction of on-site sound pressure levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

8.6 Measurement of on-site sound pressure levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

8.7 Methods of sound attenuation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

9. Motor Sizing Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

9.1 Motor capability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

9.2 Aerodynamic considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

9.3 Mechanical considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

10. Quality Assurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30