Fred Brown, vice president of Research & Development at Comair Rotron (San Diego, CA, U.S), says that the new compact Mixed Flow fan is a hybrid device, combining the best characteristics of fans and blowers to deliver increased pressure and airflow. In order to achieve that, Mr. Brown explains that the shape of the venturi, as well as the propeller, have been redesigned so that the fan can produce increased airflow in applications that have high impedance, such as computer mainframes and telecommunications equipment.

In fact, as white goods and consumer electronics get more sophisticated and include more electronics, Mr. Brown says these applications might require fans such as the 7.9-in Mixed Flow, although on a smaller scale. Mr. Brown says that Comair Rotron is currently developing smaller Mixed Flow fans to prepare for such applications.

Measuring 7.95-in sq by 3.50-in deep (202 mm x 89 mm) and weighing 4.6 lbs (2.1 kg), the 7.9-in Mixed Flow reportedly delivers 375 CFM (175 L/s) and a static pressure of 1.5 in (38 mm) of water, while generating minimal noise of 59.6 dBA. In addition, the fan has an operating temperature range of -100°C to 700°C, runs at either the standard 24 or 48 V d.c. (nominal), and is designed for continuous duty life of 50,000 hr at 400°C.

The fan is available with the supplier's patented ThermaPro-Vâ„¢ technology, which is said to automatically adjust the airflow based on current temperature needs, minimizing power consumption and noise and eliminating expensive circuit redesigns. Also available is an automatic restart feature to ensure operation will resume after power failure or overheating. A tachometer output can be incorporated to monitor performance and assure protection of essential components.