SERVICES

DESIGN

When it comes to industrial fans, every detail matters.
Using our fan selection software, our engineers can select the most appropriate (axial or centrifugal) solution – saving both time and money. The program is then able to calculate performance curves, torque curves, variable frequency drive curves and noise levels to mechanically design and calculate stresses with the support of structural engineering input. The software can automatically generate drawings that are saved as AutoCAD files, produce AutoCAD cutting profiles for the main components, estimate costs, areas, weights and labour hours and generate a quote (amongst other things).

In the design phase, ABF makes use of the most advanced analysis tools like Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Modelling (FEM). CFD is used to optimise aerodynamic design, resulting in higher efficiencies across a broad range of operating points, as per the application requirements, while FEM tools are used for both static and dynamic analysis and assist us in designing fan structures with optimal strength, balanced with ease of manufacture and maintenance.

Furthermore, Air Blow Fans has implemented a collaboration tool that allows us to track versions and work closely with manufacturers and clients, ensuring quality control throughout the engineering process to the final step of field assembly. It is also all in the cloud, which makes it secure and accessible anywhere, anytime!

By investing in all these phases of the product design, we can manage costs and streamline production, which ultimately benefits our customers.

MANUFACTURING

We manufacture bespoke centrifugal and axial flow fans and complete turnkey surface fans for mines (including drift work, motors and switchgear, motor houses and civil work) at our workshop in Springs, and using tried-and-tested suppliers. In addition, we design and manufacture dampers and vane control systems, as well as inlet and outlet attenuators and acoustic lagging.

INSTALLATION

Our technicians will oversee installation, testing and commissioning of our products, where logistically possible. Where not possible, our collaboration software tool is invaluable in helping ensure proper installation by external qualified personnel.

REMOTE MONITORING

Air Blow Fans’ capacity to remotely monitor the rotating components across our range of ventilation systems is a key to the units’ longevity and efficacy. Some of the most important monitoring elements include discerning increased vibration, a change in noise levels and potential structural fatigue damage to the fan and other related components.

PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE

Using pattern recognition and machine learning, we are able to predict possible maintenance requirements. As a result, the risk of unforeseen malfunctions and unplanned maintenance can be avoided, thereby increasing the success of the plant.

AUTOMATED BALANCING SYSTEM

One of ABF’s premium products is its industrial active fan balancing system.

The universal active balancing system is designed to monitor rotor vibrations and, when vibrations exceed preset levels, automatically initiate a balancing sequence. The system operates while the unit is running, which forestalls shutdowns and allows for maintenance schedules to be extended.

Air Blow Fans’ automated balancing system is advantageous in industries where imbalance due to material build-up on rotors is a common issue.

Read more about the system in our media section here.

SITE SERVICE & SUPPORT

Apart from the design and manufacture of new fan systems, Air Blow Fans provides maintenance and support of existing fans. When it comes to maintenance, we can re-engineer and supply spare parts for all types of fans, including the reproduction of non-standard parts in the absence of specifications. (In such cases, a site visit to collect information about the application is necessary.)