Industrial Fan vs. Industrial Blower

explosion proof pressure blowers

If you’re looking for an airflow solution in your industrial process application, you might be curious as to the difference between an industrial fan and an industrial blower. However, your question is a trick question, because there’s actually no difference between an industrial fan or blower at all. The two products’ designs are the same.

The truth is, in industrial processes, a fan or blower is not defined by the design or style of the impeller, but rather which side of the fan offers the resistance the fan must overcome to move air from one area to another.

So what is the difference between a blower and a fan?

So there is a difference between a blower and a fan, but it’s really one of placement more than anything else:

  • an industrial induced draft fan sucks air through a system and discharges it to the atmosphere
  • a forced-draft or pressure blower sucks atmospheric air from outside and blows it through the system

 

In non-industrial systems, such as free-standing commercial or residential applications, there are a few other differences between fans and blowers as well.

Do I need an Industrial Fan or Industrial Blower?

Which machine you need depends on that machine’s function within the application. If the application requires lower volume and higher pressure, such as a burner, air dryer, fume or gas elimination, or others, you’ll need a forced-draft or pressure blower with volume and pressure focused at the outlet. If your application calls for other combinations of volume and pressure, you’ll probably want an induced draft fan with volume and pressure focused at the inlet.

Regardless of which you need, or if you’re unsure if you need an industrial blower or industrial fan, the experts at Safe Air Technology are here to help! We’ve been manufacturing explosion-proof blowers and fans, along with other air moving technology, for years, and we specialize in heavy industrial and offshore plants. Give us a call to discuss your specific application and what it needs today!

 

What is “Explosion Proof,” and how do I know if I need it?

Explosion Proof Vertical Wall Mount Package Unit

In your heavy industrial, refinery, or chemical processing plant, you still need a capable HVAC system to keep your workers and machinery cool. However, you can’t use just any HVAC system, since the environment of a plant is more hazardous than the standard house or business Louisiana. You need what’s called “explosion proof” equipment to keep your business and employees safe.

What does “explosion proof” mean?

The term “explosion proof” comes out of the National Electric Code (NEC®), first published in 1897 by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). That document defines a number of protection techniques for various hazardous locations, including explosion proof, dust ignition proof, dust tight, purged/pressurized, intrinsically safe, and hermetically sealed.

Each of these techniques contains a number of criteria that must be met by components installed in hazardous locations. The term “explosion proof,” specifically, refers to the unit’s ability to contain any explosion that originates within its housing, and to keep sparks from igniting any vapors, dust, or other particles that are in the air around the unit. It actually doesn’t mean that it can withstand an explosion! It just won’t cause any fires itself.

Do I need an explosion proof HVAC?

Each of the protection techniques laid out by the NEC® is permitted only in specific applications. Explosion proof machinery is approved for use in Class I, Division 1 or 2 locations, so if your plant or building is in a higher class, you might need other equipment. Often, if your building is in a lower class, an explosion proof unit will be acceptable. Products listed for a higher classification often surpass the requirements of lower-classified areas.

If you’re not sure whether you need an explosion proof unit or not for your HVAC needs, the helpful people at Safe Air Technology are happy to answer your HVAC questions! Give us a call any time to describe your needs and we’ll be happy to help. We know what we’re doing and what you will need!

Where can I buy an explosion proof system?

Once you determine that an explosion proof system is right for your Baton Rouge business, factory, or plant, give Safe Air Technology a call! We can also ship units around the country or even internationally.

If you need a custom-built explosion proof solution, we have experienced engineers and designers on staff that can create a plan for you. Give us a call or email us today. We’ve been building explosion proof HVAC systems for years, so we’ve seen it all. When you need a new HVAC system, whether it’s a cooling system, split system, heating system or air handler, for your business, we’ve got what you need!

What Does an Air Handler Unit Do?

large air handler unit

Your commercial HVAC system is made up of a number of interconnected sub-systems and parts. One of the most important components of your HVAC system is called the Air Handler Unit, or AHU. The AHU is the internal partner to the Condensing Unit, which is the big metal box outside your business or on the roof with the fan. Here’s how they work together to cool your home and business.

Basically, an HVAC system works to shift heat from inside your building to the outside. The first law of thermodynamics states that heat energy can neither be created nor destroyed; rather, it must be moved outside, where it can dissipate into the air. 

That’s why a commercial HVAC system has components on both the inside and outside of your building: the inside Air Handler Unit pulls heat from the air as it’s forced through the ducts and transfers it to the refrigerant, a special chemical which can absorb and release heat effectively. The now hot refrigerant, in gaseous form, travels through a refrigerant line to the Condensing Unit, which allows the refrigerant to radiate its heat to the outside air, condensing into a liquid in the process. Then, the refrigerant cycles back inside to get heated again.

Air Handler Anatomy

Air filter

Before the air in your building enters the Air Handler Unit, it needs to be cleaned to remove contaminants that can gum up the works. The air filter, which sits between the fan and intake ducting, does this important job.

Evaporator Coils

Once through the filter, the air passes over the evaporate (or indoor) coils. These coils contain refrigerant gas, which absorbs the extra heat latent in the air and cools it. If the Air Handler is the heart of your interior HVAC system, this is the heart of your Air Handler.

Blower

After the air is cooled (or “conditioned,” as in “air conditioner”), the blower fan within the Air Handler circulates it out of the Air Handler and into the ductwork, whence it is distributed throughout your office, warehouse, or factory as cool, conditioned air.

Why is an Air Handler Unit important?

The AHU, when coupled with the outdoor Condenser Unit, is the part of your HVAC unit that actually serves to cool the air circulating through your building. If the AHU doesn’t exist or fails, your commercial building basically just has an expensive fan system blowing tepid air around. That’s why regular maintenance and upkeep of your HVAC system is vitally important to the continued functioning of the system, and indirectly the functioning of your business as a whole.

Modern HVAC systems do more than cool the air. They also filter the air of contaminants like common allergens, air-borne pathogens, and toxins, keeping the air quality in your business high. A well-functioning HVAC system is also more efficient, which saves you money month-to-month in your utility bills.

The AHU helps keep the entire process of capturing excess heat from inside your building and circulating it outside energy efficient and effective. In addition, AHUs are highly important to the safety of your building. 

Irregular circulation within your HVAC system can cause frost that can damage equipment, leading to excessive condensation inside the building. Extra liquid can pool on the floor, causing slippage, or can short important electrical equipment. A properly working HVAC system requires a floor drain or condensation box to keep everyone who works for you safe.

The Takeaway

Unless you’re an HVAC technician, you probably only think about your HVAC system when it fails. However, a properly-working HVAC system is key to keeping the temperature inside your building safely regulated, which keeps your employees happy and healthy, and saves you money on your utility bills. Make sure to keep your entire HVAC system, especially the Air Handler Unit, properly serviced and cleaned.

You need a well-designed Air Handler Unit to help your HVAC system perform optimally. At Safe Air Technology, our expert HVAC engineers can design and build certified explosion-proof Air Handlers for your industrial needs. We can even customize your AHU to fit the size and shape of your operation. Contact us today to get started selecting or customizing an explosion-proof Air Handler today.

What are Condensing Units for?

A condenser unit is an essential part of any HVAC system. To put it shortly, the condenser unit releases superheated air that is generated during the air circulation process. How you get superheated air while cooling your building can get a bit complex but knowing the basic parts of a condenser unit and thinking of air heating and cooling as a circular motion makes it much easier to understand.

Condenser Anatomy

 

Condensing Unit

Condenser box – Most of us recognize this as the loud box behind a house or building that controls the AC. The inside condenser walls are made up of coils that circulate very hot refrigerant (more on this below), releasing excess heat.

Compressor – This is located inside of the condenser unit and is considered the heart of the HVAC system. Compressors pump refrigerant in a closed loop of cold vapor to hot liquid and so on.

Fan – Located at the top of the condenser, the fan helps release excess heat built up inside the condenser coils.

The Takeaway

We know condenser units aren’t particularly attractive, but they’re the key to keeping the temperature inside of your building safely regulated, saving you money on utility bills, maintenance and equipment in the long run. Keep it clear of debris and other obstructions to keep your HVAC system in top shape for years to come.

At Safe Air Technology, our expert HVAC engineers design and build fully certified commercial-grade condensing units. We can even customize the right size condensing unit for your building. Give us a call to get started on finding or building the right condenser unit for your business.

Spring Cleaning Maintenance Tips for Your HVAC Systems

Spring is upon us, meaning it is prime time to clean your HVAC system! As we approach more mild weather, heating and cooling systems should not be used at their maximum capacity. This in-between season is a great time to have your system serviced and cleaned of dust, debris, or any other general maintenance. By keeping your unit clean, you preserve the longevity of your system’s lifespan and prevent contamination of indoor air. At Safe Air Technology, we work to provide explosion proof HVAC equipment to meet the needs of today and the future. By ensuring your system is in good working condition, your organization can have peace of mind.

When cleaning an industrial HVAC unit, all internal components should be inspected and cleaned. A good HVAC maintenance checklist should be as followed:

  • Keep your building clean, accumulated dust will be recirculated
  • Ensure all ducts are flowing freely, with nothing blocking or excess dirt
  • Make sure outside HVAC unit is free of leaves or other debris
  • Pay attention to any possible performance issues (i.e. weak airflow)

 

The more people in your facility means the more you need to change your air filters. Operating your commercial HVAC equipment with a dirty or clogged air filter can result in damage to your system and to people’s health. By changing filters on a regular basis, you can prevent significant monetary losses from the rising energy costs of a poorly-functioning unit. While a dirty HVAC system does not necessarily produce unhealthy air, it could cause serious issues to people with respiratory issues, autoimmune disorders, or environmental/seasonal allergies.

Another component of industrial HVAC systems that often goes overlooked are drain pans. These should be cleaned frequently to prevent water accumulation that could lead to mold and bacteria growth. If a drain pan issue goes unnoticed, it could result in serious damage to your HVAC system.

Safe Air Technology is Your Premier Explosion Proof Air Conditions & HVAC Systems Manufacturer

 

Safe Air Technology specializes in the custom designing, engineering, and manufacturing of explosion-proof HVAC systems. Built to last, our professional staff will equip you with the tools and tricks to properly care for your industrial HVAC system! With over 60 years of experience in designing and manufacturing quality industrial HVAC units and explosion proof HVAC systems, you can rest assured that every piece of equipment that we engineer is guaranteed to meet all N.E.C. and I.E.C. classifications. Give us a call or check out our extensive inventory online today!

Why Do Industries Use Explosion-Proof HVAC Systems?

Why Do Some Industries Use Explosion-Proof HVAC Systems?

Industries all across the globe employ explosion-proof HVAC systems to provide safety in conditions of working environments that are regularly exposed to flammable products or flames. Whether they are exposed to dust, gas/vapor, metal shavings, or any other airborne particles, using explosion-proof systems reduces the risk of tightening and causing the spread of fire throughout the facility. Like standard HVAC equipment, these explosion-proof systems allow for temperature control and humidity control, but with the added benefit of tolerance for high temperatures and/or volatile materials. As safety is a top priority, so is finding the most trusted, safe explosion-proof HVAC system for your on or offshore business.

Which Industries Utilize Explosion-Proof HVAC Systems?

Explosion-Proof HVAC systems are a need for a wide array of different businesses and industries worldwide. Explosion-proof HVAC systems find regular use in the following industries:

  • Aerospace and Military/Defense Industries
  • Oil/Gas Industry
  • Milling Industry
  • Pharmaceutical and Medical Industries
  • And More!

Since all of the above industries regularly perform activities in environments with flames or volatile materials it is critical that they utilize explosion-proof equipment to maintain safety procedures and standards and keep their operators safe. Any spark or extreme heat produced near equipment can result in utter disaster, which is why it’s so important that all equipment, devices, and systems are designed and built to be explosion-proof. At Safe Air Technology, we offer our explosion-proof HVAC systems globally, for industries & businesses like refineries, chemical plants, drillships, and more. With over 60 years of experience, we are confident that we can deliver whatever your industry demands.

Our Explosion-Proof HVAC Solutions at Safe Air Technology

Safe Air Technology specializes in the custom designing, engineering, and manufacturing of explosion-proof HVAC systems. Safe Air Technology is the leading creator of industrial HVAC equipment across the world. We are experts in the field of explosion-proof heating or cooling systems. Every piece of equipment that we engineer is guaranteed to meet all N.E.C. and I.E.C. classifications. If you choose to work with us, you’ll have some of the best engineers in the industry supporting your project.

explosion proof hvac systems

Benefits Of a Custom HVAC System From Safe Air Technology

While standard, off-the-shelf solutions can often meet most HVAC system needs, there are several advantages of investing in one of our custom solutions. These include:

  • Simplify Your HVAC Solutions With Custom Builds
  • Get Affordable, Quality HVAC Equipment
  • Forget the MiddleMan – Production & Fulfilment Happens With Us!
  • Experience Top-Notch Customer Service
  • Partner With Highly-Trained Industry Leaders

We design and manufacture custom systems for our customers with unique needs that are not met by an off-the-shelf explosion-proof product. Our custom explosion-proof HVAC systems are designed to meet your precise performance standards and specifications. Our team of expert engineers aims to prevent catastrophic events in major industrial facilities by providing safe, explosion-proof equipment. Contact us today to get started on your custom Explosion-Proof HVAC Systems!

Guide to Explosion Proof HVAC Systems

When working in an industry using heavy machinery and large manufacturing processes, it’s important to have assurance that your equipment will not only keep your product safe, but keeps people safe. At Safe Air Technology, we specialize in explosion proof HVAC equipment that ensures the safety of your workplace, so you can focus on your industry. At Safe Air Technology, we have years of experience in providing safe HVAC equipment, let our expertise work for you! Our primary clientele ranges from military and aerospace, to oil and pharmaceutical industries. Regardless of your industry, our company promises safe and reliable equipment whether it be an explosion proof air conditioner to a complete air filtration and heat ventilation system.

LOG project completed ahead of schedule and with the highest level of HVAC quality

What are explosion-proof systems?

What exactly makes an HVAC system explosion proof? According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), something that is “explosion proof” must be able to contain any explosions that originate within their enclosure, effectively preventing them from causing a larger explosion. Our products are in accordance with the NEC and allow for humidity and temperature control PLUS the tolerance and filtration of volatile materials. Volatile materials such as gas, dust, or other airborne particles can prove to be deadly when a workplace environment is regularly exposed to flammable materials. Our products offer a safe solution at a competitive price while maintaining that our quality is top notch. We make sure that your project focuses on quality, pricing, and on-time delivery when making your project successful.

We provide our explosion proof HVAC systems globally, ranging from refineries, chemical plants, drill ships, and more, we are more than confident that we will be able to accommodate whatever your industry demands. Let our 60 years in the industry bring peace of mind to your project. We are a team of over 60 individuals, each in exceptional departments that together put us at the top of our field. We have four manufacturing facilities with specialized equipment that ensures your product is assembled and follows our promise of quality, pricing, and on-time delivery.

When designing your project, we offer certified project drawing by request, ensuring that our HVAC system is the right fit for your location. Please feel free to contact us with any questions regarding our products and installation. Our corporate headquarters is located in the heart of Baton Rouge, and we have a plethora of international contacts as well. When choosing HVAC equipment that is reliable and safe, choose Safe Air Technology!

5 Reasons to Choose Safe Air Technology for Your HVAC Needs

Safe Air Technology is the leading creator of industrial HVAC equipment across the world. We are experts in explosion proof heating or cooling systems, and every piece of equipment that we engineer is guaranteed to meet all N.E.C. and I.E.C. classifications. If you choose to work with us, you’ll have some of the best engineers in the industry supporting your project. Want to know more? Take a moment to learn about some of the other benefits of partnering with our team.

Simplify Your HVAC Solutions

Safe Air Technology provides custom industrial heating, cooling, and pressurization solutions. This means that your business doesn’t have to shop around for the perfect system– we’ll build it for you!

Get Affordable, Quality HVAC Equipment

Our Explosion Proof Products are designed to provide you with a quality, safe solution at a competitive price. We only use state of the art equipment in our facilities to design high quality explosion proof HVAC equipment.

Forget the Middle Man

Each of our facilities specializes in an assigned product line and is fully equipped for production, testing, and timely delivery of your explosion proof HVAC project. Production and fulfillment happens through us. No middle man means no inflated prices.

Experience Top-Notch Customer Service

Our customers say it best: “The commitment to the process, the iterations of design and the timely responses are first class. SAT is one the best manufacturers I have ever dealt with!” We are proud to provide nothing less than an excellent experience for each of our customers.

Partner With Highly-Trained Industry Leaders

With over 47 years of experience in designing and manufacturing quality explosion proof hearing, cooling, and pressurization systems, Safe Air Technology understands that your needs can change rapidly. That’s why you can count on us to create innovative, lasting industrial HVAC solutions that meet your needs now and for years into the future.

Contact us to learn more! Or check our our products!

Benefits of Industrial HVAC Solutions

Explosion-proof industrial HVAC systems solve your building’s thermoregulatory needs. Similar to the unit in your home, industrial HVAC systems are capable of cooling or heating an entire building, at a fraction of the cost. Due to its energy efficiency, it gives you the ability to lower and control your utility bill, saving you a fortune year to year. This control over the internal climate also helps create a more work-friendly environment by not allowing the building to become uncomfortably cold or hot. These systems also have multiple layers of filters within them helping to sterilize the air, creating a safer working environment as well.

Additionally, these systems often can be completely customized based on your needs, without compromising on quality or price. The HVAC systems offer capacities from one to two-hundred tons, as well as protection from hazardous environments, as it pertains to both NEC and IEC codes related to NFPA 70 Article 500-505 for Hazardous Environments. As a result of the complexity of an HVAC system, they are often required to be certified and code compliant, giving an extra layer of peace of mind.

In order to become an HVAC technician you must spend a minimum of five years training. This requirement creates a class of expert technicians and professional engineers not seen in other industries. The experts at Safe Air Technology are able to build your system to order and quickly deliver the unit because of their familiarity with the system. They then service the unit for the rest of its life helping to maintain its original quality. When you buy one of our industrial HVAC units, you also buy a team with sixty years of experience behind it.

Learn more about the different HVAC systems we build, or contact our team today to receive a quote for your custom heating, cooling, or pressurization system today.

Safe Air Technology’s Atex and IECEX HVAC systems

Safe Air Technology is pleased to announce that our company will be working with Artidor Explosion Safety B.V. on a joint venture project for Sternax, a prestigious client that we have been working closely with. Mr. Kumar Head of Operations for our Middle East Office will be heading the project and working directly with Mr. Ratcliff ( SAT President & CEO ) so that the project is handle with great care. Safe Air Technology would like to thank Sternax for all the hard work on the project. We look forward to working with you and in building our relationship with you for the future.