Axial Fans

Axial fans are a fundamental component of ventilation systems across the UK construction industry. They are widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to provide reliable airflow, temperature regulation, and smoke control. For UK applications, axial fans must comply with Building Regulations and relevant British Standards covering performance, safety, and efficiency.

How Axial Fans Work

An axial fan moves air along the axis of the fan using blades mounted on a rotating hub. They are efficient for high airflow at relatively low pressure and are suitable for a wide range of ventilation and extraction applications. UK performance testing is governed by BS EN ISO 5801.

Benefits of Axial Fans

✔ High airflow capacity – suitable for large-scale ventilation applications.

✔ Energy efficient – models available that meet UK Ecodesign regulations and BS EN ISO 12759.

✔ Versatile – suitable for residential, commercial, and industrial environments.

✔ Can be configured for smoke and heat control (BS EN 12101-3 certified).

✔ Available in ATEX-rated designs for explosive atmospheres (BS EN 14986).

Applications of Axial Fans

• Residential – Supports bathroom, kitchen, and whole-house ventilation in compliance with Part F.

• Commercial Buildings – Provides efficient airflow in offices, schools (BB 101), and healthcare facilities (HTM 03-01).

• Industrial – Used for cooling, extraction, and LEV systems under COSHH requirements.

• Car Parks – Provides ventilation and smoke control (BS 7346-7).

• Smoke & Heat Control – Certified models operate at high temperatures under BS EN 12101-3.

Choosing the Right Axial Fan

When specifying an axial fan for UK construction projects, key considerations include airflow performance (measured in m³/h or l/s), noise levels, energy efficiency, and compliance with Building Regulations. For hazardous environments, ensure the fan is ATEX-rated under BS EN 14986. Always check that the fan carries UKCA marking and is supported by performance test data.

Maintenance Requirements

• Inspect fans regularly for dust, debris, and wear on blades and housings.

• Check bearings and motor performance to avoid failures.

• Clean fan blades and guards to maintain efficiency.

• For LEV applications under COSHH, fans must be inspected and tested at least every 14 months.

• Document all maintenance activity as required by HSE and BS EN 12101-3 where applicable.