Axial vs Centrifugal Fan Calculator
Compare which fan type suits your CFM and pressure requirement.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Recommended fan type
- Centrifugal fan (backward-curved or airfoil) — better suited to higher static pressure
- Pressure entered
- 3 in wc
- Typical axial fan limit
- ~0.75-1.5 in wc
- Typical centrifugal range
- 0.5 in wc to 20+ in wc
Quick answer
Axial fans suit high airflow at low pressure; centrifugal fans suit moderate airflow against higher static pressure.
Comparison against typical envelope: axial fans usually under 2 in wc, centrifugal fans handle much higher pressure
How to use the Axial vs Centrifugal Fan Calculator
- 1Enter your required design CFM and static pressure.
- 2Read the recommended fan family based on where your point falls in typical fan-type operating envelopes.
- 3Confirm the final selection against manufacturer curves for the specific model.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Required airflow8000 CFM
- Required static pressure3.0 in wc
Results
- Recommended fan typeCentrifugal fan (backward-curved or airfoil) — better suited to higher static pressure
- Pressure entered3 in wc
- Typical axial fan limit~0.75-1.5 in wc
- Typical centrifugal range0.5 in wc to 20+ in wc
Frequently asked questions
Why do axial fans struggle at high pressure?
Their blade design accelerates air mostly axially with limited pressure rise per stage before stalling.
Are centrifugal fans always quieter?
Not always — it depends on wheel type and speed, but backward-curved and airfoil wheels are generally quieter at a given duty than forward-curved.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.