PICK CAREFULLY: |
Unless you’ve been living under a rock (or, heaven forbid, spending all your time playing Pokémon GO), you know it’s really REALLY hot outside. Like crazy hot – fry an egg on the sidewalk hot. If you’re not near a pool, a lake, or a beach, being outdoors just isn’t any fun. And let’s face it – working inside a sweltering warehouse or other facility this time of year is no picnic either. So, in addition to staying hydrated (hopefully you have a fully stocked “hydration station” like we do here at Patterson), why not throw some affordable, high quality fan products into the mix? Since 1989, Patterson has been “locked and loaded” with a variety of air movement products for every facility’s need. Want air flow down aisle ways, in truck trailers, or in mezzanine areas? Take a look at Patterson’s complete line of high velocity fans. Open areas? Perfect for the High-5 HVLS fan! Work station cooling? Patterson has you covered with cage fans, spot coolers, and Power Tubes. Basically, if you have an air movement issue – Patterson has a fan for that! All of this fan awesomeness is backed by the friendliest, most knowledgeable sales reps in the industry! Why not do yourself (and your employees) a big favor this summer, and give Patterson a call right now! |
THE AUTHORITY IN AIR MOVEMENT
LINE ‘EM UP: | We’ve spent many a Strait Talk entry discussing what types of fans to use and where to place them (be honest, aren’t you smarter for it?). So this month, we decided to change things up a bit… and talk about how to place fans in pick module aisles. See what we did there? Gotta keep our readers on their toes! High Velocity (HV) fans are best suited for use in pick modules, as they are able to move air quickly from one end to the other. The key to proper airflow is making sure all aisles are moving air in the same direction. Determining this direction should take into account any large, wall mounted supply and exhaust fans that may be present in the facility as well (always want to accelerate air from supply to exhaust). In addition to this setup, fans at the end of the aisles can be turned sideways – helping to generate airflow around the pick module perimeter. |
So how many fans, and what size should they be? The answer depends on any number of factors. First, fans should be sized such that they do not interfere with everyday work activity (retrieving items from modules, forklifts, etc.). Then, space your fans such that one fan accelerates the air from its predecessor in the aisle. A good rule of thumb is to place the next fan when the previous fan’s air speed slows to 2-3 mph. Fan size (air throw distance) and aisle length (fan spacing) will determine the optimum number of fans per aisle.
Looking for more fan knowledge? Just can’t get enough? Great! Put Patterson’s 26 years of air movement experience to work for you! Their expertise is matched only by their enthusiasm to help you achieve a safer, more productive work environment.
Looking for more fan knowledge? Just can’t get enough? Great! Put Patterson’s 26 years of air movement experience to work for you! Their expertise is matched only by their enthusiasm to help you achieve a safer, more productive work environment.
THE AUTHORITY IN AIR MOVEMENT
SOUND VS. PERFORMANCE:
GETTING THE MOST BANG FOR YOUR AIR MOVEMENT BUCK
We all love to have our cake and eat it, too. But, as anyone in a successful marriage will tell you, life is about compromise. (Seriously ladies, you can’t have it YOUR way EVERY time!) In the air movement business, a trade-off exists when evaluating a fan’s performance versus the noise level it produces. So how much noise is too much? When is it ok to use a quieter, lower performance fan? How do you strike the perfect balance between necessary air flow and acceptable sound levels? Answers forthcoming!
Before we go much further, let’s talk about the different fan types. High velocity (HV) fans are generally considered high performance – designed to accelerate (or “throw”) air over a distance. For HV fans, airspeed (measured in feet per minute, or FPM) is more important than volume. However, this also translates into slightly higher noise levels, typically measured in decibels (dBA). The other end of the performance spectrum includes cage fans and ventilation fans (think supply, exhaust, shop floor, etc.). These fans covet volume over speed, and are usually rated in cubic feet per minute (CFM). Are they quieter than HV fans? Absolutely… but you won’t feel their airflow once you move more than a few feet away.
So which fans are right for your facility, and how should they be used? Well… both… and it depends! (How’s that for an answer?!) For an effective overall air movement solution, it is best to incorporate both fan types. For example, use large supply and exhaust fans for cross ventilation, and couple them with HV fans to accelerate air movement from one end of the building to the other. This works particularly well if your aisle ways run parallel to the airflow. If noise abatement is an issue (industry standard tends to put an upper limit around 80 dBA), mount HV fans well above the floor on columns or racks. If small area “spot cooling” is needed, employ one or more shop floor or cage fans – allowing for airflow without violating any noise level requirements.
So… maybe that example doesn’t fit the layout of your facility. Perhaps you’re looking for both performance and low noise? Great! Give Patterson a call and learn more about their new db fan! It offers the performance of an HV fan, with a 70% reduction in noise level! No matter the fan type, Patterson has the products and the expertise to keep your facility cooler, safer, and more productive!
Before we go much further, let’s talk about the different fan types. High velocity (HV) fans are generally considered high performance – designed to accelerate (or “throw”) air over a distance. For HV fans, airspeed (measured in feet per minute, or FPM) is more important than volume. However, this also translates into slightly higher noise levels, typically measured in decibels (dBA). The other end of the performance spectrum includes cage fans and ventilation fans (think supply, exhaust, shop floor, etc.). These fans covet volume over speed, and are usually rated in cubic feet per minute (CFM). Are they quieter than HV fans? Absolutely… but you won’t feel their airflow once you move more than a few feet away.
So which fans are right for your facility, and how should they be used? Well… both… and it depends! (How’s that for an answer?!) For an effective overall air movement solution, it is best to incorporate both fan types. For example, use large supply and exhaust fans for cross ventilation, and couple them with HV fans to accelerate air movement from one end of the building to the other. This works particularly well if your aisle ways run parallel to the airflow. If noise abatement is an issue (industry standard tends to put an upper limit around 80 dBA), mount HV fans well above the floor on columns or racks. If small area “spot cooling” is needed, employ one or more shop floor or cage fans – allowing for airflow without violating any noise level requirements.
So… maybe that example doesn’t fit the layout of your facility. Perhaps you’re looking for both performance and low noise? Great! Give Patterson a call and learn more about their new db fan! It offers the performance of an HV fan, with a 70% reduction in noise level! No matter the fan type, Patterson has the products and the expertise to keep your facility cooler, safer, and more productive!
THE AUTHORITY IN AIR MOVEMENT
KEEPIN’ IT CLEAN:
THE EFFECTS OF DUST BUILDUP
ON YOUR HIGH VELOCITY FANS
Dusting isn’t just a household chore. It’s also a good idea around your work area, especially when it comes to your Patterson high velocity fans. While built to last in the most rugged conditions, cleaning your fans regularly can add years to their life, cut down on replacement costs, and even save you money on energy consumption. Here’s why:
So, as we wind down yet another hot summer, be sure to take a moment to clean your Patterson high velocity fans. Your maintenance budget will thank you!
- Over time, dust will begin to build up on two major areas: the guard behind the motor and the fan blade itself. If left untreated, this can lead to a number of issues. First, a fan guard caked with dust will not allow proper airflow over the motor, causing it to heat up as well as increase its amp draw. Higher amp draws mean greater energy consumption, which in turn leads to higher electric bills… And no sane person wants that.
- Dust on the fan blade can be equally as troubling. Since the motor and blade are designed to function as one unit, any sort of buildup can cause an imbalance in the blade’s rotation. This can place constant stress on the rotor (due to fan blade “wobble”), and in some cases cause a fatigue crack on a blade paddle.
So, as we wind down yet another hot summer, be sure to take a moment to clean your Patterson high velocity fans. Your maintenance budget will thank you!
THE AUTHORITY IN AIR MOVEMENT
SETTING THE RECORD “STRAIT”
ON TRAILER COOLING
It’s that time of year again – trips to the beach, backyard barbeques, and of course…the loading/unloading of sweltering hot trailers. Employees of distribution centers and other facilities are faced with this grueling task each and every summer. In many cases, these trailers are left sitting for days before they’re brought to the dock area – creating an oven effect by trapping in heat from prolonged sun exposure. Temperatures can reach in excess of 130°F! Fortunately, Patterson has worked to mitigate this issue with their TC (Truck Cooler) 18-inch fan and HVTC (High Velocity Truck Cooler aka “the Whistleblower”). However, a fan is only effective if it’s used properly, so this month we’ll focus on getting the most relief from your Patterson truck cooling solutions.
The prevailing myth amongst dock area employees is that they must point fans directly at them to receive the maximum benefit. Yet this will only provide temporary relief when at or near the dock door opening. As the employee moves away from the dock door, they will begin to feel less air movement – eventually reaching an area of hot, stagnant air that remains at the front of the trailer. Working in this condition for long periods can bring about the symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke if not dealt with appropriately.
So how can we optimize air flow? Very simply, the fan needs to be positioned in one of the upper corners at the dock door opening and aimed toward the same corner at the front of the trailer. Doing so will allow air to reach the entire length of the trailer – evacuating the trapped hot air and creating a constant airflow. Having this continuous movement of air will alleviate many heat stress issues and provide an overall safer work environment on even the hottest of summer days.
Looking to cool more than just your trailers? Check out Patterson’s new db fan – it’s quieter, takes up less space, and is unlike any air movement product you’ve ever seen! As the weather heats up, be sure to call the experts at Patterson – your employees will thank you!
The prevailing myth amongst dock area employees is that they must point fans directly at them to receive the maximum benefit. Yet this will only provide temporary relief when at or near the dock door opening. As the employee moves away from the dock door, they will begin to feel less air movement – eventually reaching an area of hot, stagnant air that remains at the front of the trailer. Working in this condition for long periods can bring about the symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke if not dealt with appropriately.
So how can we optimize air flow? Very simply, the fan needs to be positioned in one of the upper corners at the dock door opening and aimed toward the same corner at the front of the trailer. Doing so will allow air to reach the entire length of the trailer – evacuating the trapped hot air and creating a constant airflow. Having this continuous movement of air will alleviate many heat stress issues and provide an overall safer work environment on even the hottest of summer days.
Looking to cool more than just your trailers? Check out Patterson’s new db fan – it’s quieter, takes up less space, and is unlike any air movement product you’ve ever seen! As the weather heats up, be sure to call the experts at Patterson – your employees will thank you!
THE AUTHORITY IN AIR MOVEMENT
HIGH VELOCITY OR HIGH VOLUME?
WHEN AND WHERE?
When deciding between a high velocity or high volume (HVLS) fan, one must first assess the given area - for while both achieve the goal of people cooling, each has its own set of requirements that maximize their effectiveness.
HVLS fans work best in open areas, where air can be accelerated vertically toward the floor, then outward in all directions. Assembly and inspection lines, loading docks, and staging areas are all great examples where an HVLS fan would provide a comfortable working environment.
By contrast, high velocity fans provide horizontal air movement in more confined spaces, such as aisle ways, pick modules, or any area where material may be stacked floor to ceiling. For more information on the best fan application for your facility, contact a Patterson sales rep today!
HVLS fans work best in open areas, where air can be accelerated vertically toward the floor, then outward in all directions. Assembly and inspection lines, loading docks, and staging areas are all great examples where an HVLS fan would provide a comfortable working environment.
By contrast, high velocity fans provide horizontal air movement in more confined spaces, such as aisle ways, pick modules, or any area where material may be stacked floor to ceiling. For more information on the best fan application for your facility, contact a Patterson sales rep today!
THE AUTHORITY IN AIR MOVEMENT
YOU'RE MOTORIN'
THE MOST COMMON TYPES OF FAN MOTOR ENCLOSURES
OK, 80’s rock ballad reference aside, selecting the proper motor type for your industrial environment is vitally important – ensuring years of high performance and reliability from your high velocity fan. Each type is specifically designed to protect the motor’s mechanical and electrical parts to varying degrees. Not sure which one to choose? Take a look at the descriptions below:
Open Drip Proof (ODP) – Prevents liquid from dripping into the motor within a 15° angle from vertical, but still allows air to circulate through the windings. Clean, dry locations are ideal for a motor with an ODP enclosure.
Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) – Possibly the most common and versatile of all enclosure types. A small fan attached to the shaft on the back of the motor creates airflow to aid in the cooling process. Keep in mind that although these motors are “totally enclosed,” they are not air tight.
Totally Enclosed Air Over (TEAO) – This motor has no internal or external mechanism to facilitate cooling. Therefore, it must be mounted in the path of the manufactured fan’s airflow. Many belt driven fans employ this motor type.
Wash Down or Totally Enclosed Wash Down (TEWD) – These enclosures can withstand a high-pressure wash down, and are a necessity for wet or chemical environments. Common uses include food processing, packing, and pharmaceuticals. Be aware that they are not for use in hazardous locations.
Explosion Proof (EXPL) – Essential in many hazardous industries like chemical, oil and gas, and wood processing. A motor given this designation does not mean that it can withstand an exterior explosion. Rather, they prevent an internal spark (or explosion) from igniting a much larger blast outside the housing.
Have questions? Still unsure of your choice? Give Patterson a call! Our knowledgeable sales staff is ready to discuss your application and provide the best possible air movement solution!
Open Drip Proof (ODP) – Prevents liquid from dripping into the motor within a 15° angle from vertical, but still allows air to circulate through the windings. Clean, dry locations are ideal for a motor with an ODP enclosure.
Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) – Possibly the most common and versatile of all enclosure types. A small fan attached to the shaft on the back of the motor creates airflow to aid in the cooling process. Keep in mind that although these motors are “totally enclosed,” they are not air tight.
Totally Enclosed Air Over (TEAO) – This motor has no internal or external mechanism to facilitate cooling. Therefore, it must be mounted in the path of the manufactured fan’s airflow. Many belt driven fans employ this motor type.
Wash Down or Totally Enclosed Wash Down (TEWD) – These enclosures can withstand a high-pressure wash down, and are a necessity for wet or chemical environments. Common uses include food processing, packing, and pharmaceuticals. Be aware that they are not for use in hazardous locations.
Explosion Proof (EXPL) – Essential in many hazardous industries like chemical, oil and gas, and wood processing. A motor given this designation does not mean that it can withstand an exterior explosion. Rather, they prevent an internal spark (or explosion) from igniting a much larger blast outside the housing.
Have questions? Still unsure of your choice? Give Patterson a call! Our knowledgeable sales staff is ready to discuss your application and provide the best possible air movement solution!
THE AUTHORITY IN AIR MOVEMENT
JOHN STRAIT
Patterson Fan's
Air Movement Guru & Man of Wisdom
Air Movement Guru & Man of Wisdom
Before you judge a man, walk a mile in his shoes. After that who cares?... He’s a mile away and you’ve got his shoes!
- Billy Connolly
- Billy Connolly
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