blower

A blower is a device that moves air or gas by converting mechanical energy into fluid motion. Blowers are designed to generate a controlled flow and pressure for applications such as ventilation, combustion air supply, cooling, or industrial processing.

Blowers are classified into several families. Centrifugal (radial) blowers pull air into the center and eject it outward, producing higher pressure at a given flow. Axial blowers push air along the axis, delivering large volumes at modest pressure. Positive-displacement blowers, including roots and screw types, trap and discharge fixed volumes, providing steady pressure across a range of back pressures.

Performance is described by flow rate and pressure rise. Common metrics include cubic meters per hour (m3/h) or cubic feet per minute (CFM) and pressure in pascals (Pa) or inches water. Efficiency varies with design, speed, and loading; many units employ variable-speed drives for control and noise reduction.

Common applications range from heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and furnace or boiler air supplies to industrial ventilation, pneumatic conveying, dust collection, and electronic equipment cooling. In automotive use, blower motors drive climate control fans.

In everyday language, blowers are often contrasted with fans, with blowers producing higher pressure and lower flow, though modern equipment frequently blends features of both. The term covers small portable units as well as large industrial machines.

Safety and maintenance involve guarding rotating parts, ensuring proper lubrication and bearings, checking seals for leaks, and operating within the equipment’s rated limits. Regular inspection of impellers, housings, and air-path cleanliness helps maintain performance and reduce noise and vibration.