All electronics will generate heat in one form or another. Lowering the temperatures in areas where electrical equipment is housed can significantly extend the mean time between failures (MTBF) of the electrical/avionics units. A reliable avionics fan is a viable solution for lowering environmental temperatures and prolonging the lifespan of these systems.
Direct current (DC) fans are easy to install and offer a safe, dependable, and inexpensive method for cooling. They are designed for low power but can handle the high-speed demands of modern-day applications. These fans feature robust, compact construction and are manufactured to comply with stringent defense equipment specifications.
Pelonis Technologies, Inc. offers aerospace, military, and defense cooling fans that can deliver highly reliable and efficient cooling while withstanding harsh environments. Below, we will discuss important factors to consider when selecting the right DC fan for your avionics application.
Determine Airflow (CFM) Requirements
Airflow, which is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), indicates the volume of air a fan can move. A thermal analysis must be performed before identifying the required airflow to determine the amount of heat produced by a specific piece of equipment or process.
When calculating the required airflow, the following factors must be taken into consideration:
- Desired temperature rise
- Heat load of the equipment
- Size of the enclosure
When choosing a DC fan, it is always wise to err on the side of caution. We recommend selecting a fan(s) that is at least 1.5 times greater than the desired CFM.
Choose the Right Materials
Selecting the proper motors, housings, and fan blades is essential. The right materials will exhibit the following properties:
- Reduce the total weight added to the aircraft
- Capable of enduring the forces of flight
- Ensure long-lasting durability
Using high-performance alloys and PBT thermoplastic composites, aerospace fans can achieve the necessary balance of weight and strength.
Consider Vibration and Noise Reduction
High levels of vibration can be damaging, and noise can interfere with communication networks and inconvenience crew members and passengers. The construction of high-quality aerospace fans can alleviate these disturbances. Key considerations include:
- Accurate design of the fan's geometry for efficient airflow
- Balancing of the fan blades
- Installing vibration-damping materials
While shaking and whizzing may seem superfluous, reducing these can increase the reliability and efficiency of aerospace fans.
Limit Power Consumption
AC fans often use more voltage compared to DC fans. A fan with high power consumption can generate excessive heat, which increases operating costs and complicates the cooling requirements. DC fans are typically available in 5V, 12V, 24V, and 48V configurations, featuring motors that rely on permanent magnets to attract and repel the rotors around the axis.
Some modern DC fans use energy-efficient motors and advanced controls to effectively reduce power consumption without compromising performance.
Request a Quote on DC Fans From Pelonis Technologies, Inc.
DC fans consume less power than AC fans, are acoustically quieter, and exhibit minimal electromagnetic interference. These low-voltage units are water-resistant and come in varying models with a range of speed control functions.
At Pelonis Technologies, Inc., we offer different types of brushless DC axial fans that provide exceptional heat reduction and low power consumption capabilities. Our top-quality DC fans are available in IP 51, 54, 56, and 67-rated design options, delivering reliable cooling and protection against dust and moisture in harsh operating conditions.
Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of DC avionics cooling fans for your next project. You can also request a quote for adapting our products to your application, and an experienced member of our team will provide specific pricing and information to meet your needs.
