The Condenser - A Closer Look at Airfoil Blades

Airfoil blades are designed for airflow. Learn more about their design in this quick Condenser read. The MCDLG Newsstand has you covered.

When it comes to damper design, you typically have two options for blades: single thickness or airfoil. Each blade type has benefits, but one type is best for airflow efficiency. Airfoil blades are the best choice for maintaining air velocity and pressure through the duct. Let’s look at these blades and see how they work.

Airfoil blades have a smooth, curved profile. The profile resembles the shape of an airplane wing, but it isn’t an exact match.

These blades don’t have the upward curve found along the underside of an airplane wing. This means the blade won’t produce lift like a wing.

The shape of the airfoil blade is more of an oval with acute edges on each side. The curve is even on each edge of the blade.

Airfoil blades are highly aerodynamic. Airflow passes over the profile with nearly zero resistance. Every damper will have an impact on your system’s airflow, but airfoil blades can help minimize that impact. Airfoil dampers are the perfect choice for efficient air flow control.

Airfoil blades are typically designed with a hollow center to allow for light warping. This makes them an excellent option for high velocity airflow. Manufacturer can fill the center of the blade with insulating material. This insulation will minimize thermal transfer when the damper is closed. With insulated airfoil blades, you get the benefits of insulation and the aerodynamic design.

The airfoil blade is designed for air performance. As the airstream moves through the damper, the air will pass over the smooth, curved surface of each blade. This design provides minimal resistance to airflow.

It seems like a minor difference over the single-thickness blade, which is also flat and mostly featureless. The difference in performance is substantial. Air flows along the airfoil blade with little loss in velocity or pressure. This makes it the perfect match for efficient HVAC.

The bottom airfoil blade is warping. The airfoil design allows the blade to keep its shape during high velocity airflow.

Efficient design requires knowing your options. HVAC dampers with airfoil blades are a step in the right direction. Consider adding control dampers with airfoil blades to your next HVAC project.

Start your next project with control dampers from Arrow United Industries. From air control to balancing, to life safety and more, Arrow United can build the perfect dampers for your project. Contact us today for the full story. We are ready to help you complete your next project.