An electronically commutated (EC) fan design delivers the combined benefits of AC and DC Fans. The EC fan's power comes from a brushless DC motor, but it offers the control that AC induction fans have over the fan rotor through a printed circuit board. The electronically commutated fan's DC motor has the advantage of a variable speed control built-in.
An AC electrical supply powers the EC fan, but the on-board electronics convert the power to DC before reaching the motor. The secondary magnetic field generated by the permanent magnets makes EC fan motors considerably more efficient than AC induction motors.
This blog post will discuss the four primary benefits offered by electronically commutated fans.
Increased Efficiency
The high energy efficiency of the EC fan motor comes from the reduction in energy consumption. Even at partial speeds, EC fan motors continue to maintain high levels of efficiency. The secondary magnetic field in EC fan motors comes from permanent magnets inside the rotor. This allows EC motors to conserve energy that would generate a secondary magnetic field like the copper windings accomplish in AC induction motors.
While the EC motor is running, it constantly monitors the electricity powering the fan and makes continuous adjustments to keep fan power optimized. The fan maintains efficiency within a range of speeds rather than a single specified speed. The level of control is similar to the frequency controller used in AC motors, but EC motors can remain efficient at any speed within its design capabilities. These factors help EC fan motors achieve as much as 30% more energy efficiency than AC fan motors.
More Control
EC fan motors use multiple methods of control to deliver better efficiency and simplify control of small or large-scale applications. EC fan motors have a printed circuit board that allows precision control through a computer application. Administrators have control of fan speed, torque, and ramp-up time through a central location, and MODBUS-network protocol for scalable automation of fan controls and simplified 0-10V controllers are also available. The advanced control granted to operators allows for optimum efficiency in a variety of applications, making the fan up to 90% more efficient.
Longer Lifespan
Industries and applications that require reliability and longevity can rely on EC fans for a longer lifespan than AC fans with similar capabilities. AC fan motors have carbon brushes that eventually wear out, but the lack of carbon brushes on the EC fan motor eliminates the risk of wear.
Low operating temperatures are another factor of EC motor longevity. Electronically commutated fan motors maintain a lower temperature compared to similar AC fans, decreasing heat-related failure. More reliable operation and a longer service life can offset the higher upfront cost of switching to EC fans by reducing the need for long-term maintenance, repair, and replacement costs.
Compact & Versatile
EC fans have a space-saving design, allowing them to operate at a high capacity at a smaller physical size. The smaller size is largely due to the external rotor. The weight of an EC motor is four times less than an AC motor with similar capabilities, and the less bulky design delivers better airflow. EC motors are a practical solution in environments where space is of concern.
Why Pelonis?
At Pelonis Technologies, we’re an industry leading vendor thanks to our innovative products, flexible manufacturing capabilities, and portfolio of value-added services. We strive to deliver affordable products made only from the highest-quality materials and are equipped to respond to orders and production runs of any size. Our manufacturing facilities are certified to meet ISO 9000 and 14000 standards, and we strictly adhere to international UL, cUL, TUV, and CE requirements.
If you need high-quality EC fans, Pelonis Technologies can help. Please contact us to see if our electronically commutated fans are right for your design.
