Fan Wall Technology versus Single Centrifugal Fans

William Greco Page 1 of 3

2404 Greensward N.
Warrington, Pa. 18976
w2gre@verizon.net
12-28-2009

Executive Summary

This report compares the characteristics of Fan Wall Technology (multiple plenum
fans) versus use of a single conventional Centrifugal Fan in HVAC systems.

Introduction
No comparison information is available on the net concerning Fan Wall technology
versus conventional centrifugal fans.
In recent years a resurgence of multiple direct drive (plenum fans) mounted to the
bulkhead wall of air handling units has been observed. These systems are being referred
to as “fan wall technology”. The two types of systems have certain benefits that can be
compared, and identified against one another.

Advantages of using a single Centrifugal Fan

The purchase of a single centrifugal fan will be less expensive than the cost of
multiple small fans. In a 10,000 cfm installation fan wall technology employing multiple
small fans on average will cost 30% to 40% more.

The total horsepower for a 10,000 cfm fan wall system will be 10% to 15% higher
than a single centrifugal fan , this is a continuous operating cost difference that will
exist during the entire life of the installation.

If the system requires a minimum operating envelope below the capability of the
fan wall system, multiple isolation dampers may be required that are closed down to
achieve reduced ratings. The isolation dampers must be installed to prevent backflow
through the discharge side of the plenum fan openings.

If one of the motors on a fan wall system fails an immediate backflow situation
will occur through the discharge side of the failed plenum fan opening.

Multiple fan arrangements many times are chosen to operate at higher than the 60 hz
with VFD installations. Operation at higher than the 60 hz causes the motors to
run hotter than design and often causes motor failure.
 Fan Wall Technology versus Single Centrifugal Fans

William Greco Page 2 of xx

2404 Greensward N.
Warrington, Pa. 18976
w2gre@verizon.net
12-28-2009

Advantages of using a single Centrifugal Fan

( Continued from page 1 )

If a variable frequency drive failure occurs, the multiple fan arrangement system will
not be able to achieve the required design point in VFD bypass mode. VFD’s
when placed in bypass mode the fan goes to full power.

Fan wall technology requires more controls and more wiring than a single centrifugal
fan.

The control sequence for fan wall technology is much more complicated than a
single centrifugal fan.

Multiple fans using fan wall technology require individual circuit protection for each
fan.

Small electric motors are less efficient than large motors.

Fan wall technology does not provide the user with the capability to spring isolate
each fan on the bulkhead.

Fan wall technology employing multiple fans requires that the manufacturer is the only
provider of operating fan curves for each system. Single fan operation manufacturers
often provide software to the design engineer which can be used to compare different
operating conditions during the design process. No fan wall technology software
is readily available to the user.

Fan walls are not AMCA certified, leaving the user at the mercy of the fan wall
technology manufacturer to provide correct operating specifications and performance
information.
 Fan Wall Technology versus Single Centrifugal Fans

William Greco Page 3 of 3

2404 Greensward N.
Warrington, Pa. 18976
w2gre@verizon.net
12-28-2009

Advantages of using a single Centrifugal Fan

( Continued from page 2 )

System effect as a result of multiple plenum fans in proximity to each other can be
a problem.

Multiple fans increase the odds of one of the fans hitting a natural frequency,
which would cause high vibration levels.

Advantages of using multiple plenum fans

Fan wall plenums are much shorter and require less HVAC unit length.

Multiple fans increase unit reliability.

Fan Walls provide a more homogenous flow pattern through the coils.

Motor replacement is simpler and quicker, there are no belts to install or couplings to
align.

Conclusion

Use of Fan Wall Technology versus use of a conventional single centrifugal fan
depends on the application. Recently Fan Wall Technology has been euphemistically
termed as the ultimate in HVAC technology. The design engineer must carefully weigh
the advantages of each system prior to final choice between the two types of systems.