The Application of an Aerodynamic Shroud for Axial Ventilation Fans

An experimental investigation of an aerodynamic shroud applied to an axial ventilation fan system is reported. The aerodynamic shroud consists of a pressurized plenum and Coanda attachment surface, which also serves as the shroud for the fan. This combination delivers a curved surface wall jet of high momentum air into the tip region of the fan and subsequently into the downstream diffuser region. Simultaneous improvements of performance and efficiency were found for a specific fan geometry with an aerodynamic shroud system when compared with a standard production fan (no shroud) system. Overall, the addition of the aerodynamic shroud was able to increase the system flowrate by 34% while simultaneously improving the efficiency by 13%. A higher efficiency condition $(+17%)$ was also found that resulted in a somewhat lower improvement in flow rate $(+23%)$⁠. These results clearly show that the best blade design for the aerodynamic shroud system is different than the best blade design for a system that does not include the aerodynamic shroud. Particle image velocimetry measurements made at the exit plane of the system’s diffuser provide insight into the mechanistic basis for the performance measurements.