What Are Inline Duct Fans?
An inline duct fan, also known as an inline fan, is a special type of fan that is installed directly inside a ventilation duct or air channel. It ensures that fresh air is efficiently transported or that stale air is quickly expelled outdoors.
Unlike stand-alone or wall-mounted fans, the inline duct fan is permanently installed in the ventilation system. This makes it space-saving, discreet, and particularly well-suited for permanent ventilation solutions.
Typical applications include:
- Bathrooms and kitchens: to prevent moisture and odors
- Commercial and industrial facilities: extracting air and moving it through duct systems
How Does an Inline Duct Fan Work?
Inline duct fans move air through a duct system, whether short or long, straight or branched. Air is drawn in using a rotating impeller and pushed in a specific direction.
Depending on the design, there are two main types: axial and centrifugal (radial) inline fans.
Axial Inline Fan
An axial inline fan moves air parallel to the rotation axis of the impeller. This allows for high airflow volume at low pressure. They are particularly suitable for direct ventilation or ventilation with short air paths, for example, between two rooms or directly to the outside.
Typical uses:
- Ventilation of rooms: bathrooms, toilets, laundry rooms
Radial Inline Fan
A radial inline fan, also called a centrifugal fan, directs air sideways from the impeller. This creates high air pressure, giving a stronger suction effect. Radial inline fans can efficiently move air through long and/or complex duct systems thanks to this higher pressure. They are ideal for long duct runs or high-resistance systems.
Typical uses:
- Air extraction: kitchen exhausts, workshops, industrial halls
Choosing the Right Inline Duct Fan
When selecting the right inline duct fan, the most important factor is the application area.
Axial inline fans are ideal for short, straight air paths and provide high airflow at low pressure.
Radial inline fans, on the other hand, are perfect for longer or more complex duct runs, as they generate higher pressure and can handle resistance reliably.
Nominal Diameter of the Inline Duct Fan
An important measurement for fans is the nominal diameter, which refers to the inner connection diameter and must match the ducting used. Smaller diameters are ideal for individual rooms or short duct runs, while larger diameters transport greater air volumes and are suitable for central ventilation systems.
Different Models
There are also various models of inline duct fans that significantly improve comfort.
Sound-insulated or "Quiet" models are equipped with additional insulation and optimized impellers, allowing them to operate very quietly – ideal for living spaces, offices, or bedrooms where a low noise level is important.
Models with a timer function allow the fan to continue running for a set period after being switched off (e.g., 2–30 minutes). This is especially useful in bathrooms or toilets to ensure proper ventilation even after leaving the room.
Conclusion and Recommendation
There is a suitable solution for every application, and the range is extensive. Pay attention to the required diameter and choose a fan type that matches your needs.
Discover our most popular models in various sizes and designs here.
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