Energy Efficiency: How Retrofitting Industrial Fans Saves Costs and Resources

Neel Rao

In sectors that use industrial fans, boosting the energy efficiency of these blowers is a major focus. Many plants and factories are now opting for retrofitting industrial blowers as a cost-effective alternative to deploying new fans. Retrofitting includes upgrading parts or various industrial blower systems. 

Why Retrofit Industrial Fans? 
Let us now explore why plants and factories are required to retrofit these blowers

  • Due to wear and tear, the performance of these fans gradually deteriorates over time. Additionally, if there are changes in production specifications, the existing blowers may no longer be adequate to meet the new requirements.
  • The power consumed by these older blowers is on the higher side, as well.
  • However, retrofitting these devices helps resolve these issues. The fans again deliver optimal performance, and their energy costs also come down. Overall, retrofitting extends the longevity of industrial fans.

Retrofitting Industrial Fans – Salient Aspects 
These are a few salient aspects about retrofitting these blowers:

  • The impeller designs can be upgraded to achieve enhanced aerodynamics.
  • When high-capacity motors are installed, the performance of blowers is boosted.
  • Businesses have the option to integrate Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) into blowers, allowing operators greater control over the fans.
  • Retrofitting is significantly more cost-effective than purchasing new industrial fans, and plants can recover the costs in a relatively short period.

Retrofitting Fans – More Benefits 
It will now be worthwhile to glance at some more benefits of retrofitting blowers.

  • Retrofitted fans can significantly reduce power consumption by approximately 15–30%. It is important to note that installing the latest impellers in fans can greatly enhance energy efficiency.
  • Since retrofitting is carried out on existing equipment within the factory or plant, it causes minimal disruption. Overall, operations on the premises can continue smoothly.
  • Retrofitted blowers lead to reduced emissions, thereby complying with sustainability standards.
  • With added emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency, it has now become more necessary than ever before for industries to opt for retrofitting fans.
  • Retrofitting ensures that plants and factories face no difficulties in meeting current operational demands. It also positions companies well to handle future contingencies.

A Case Study
At this juncture, it will be helpful to briefly elaborate on a case study. A power plant greatly benefited from choosing to retrofit its existing blowers.

  • A power plant started to notice an abnormal increase in energy costs because of improper operation of blowers. It was advised that retrofitting these devices would resolve the issue.
  • As per the guidelines, aerodynamic impellers and Variable Frequency Drives were fitted.
  • In a relatively short period, energy consumption was reduced by about 25%. This was accompanied by improved airflow management, lower emissions, and enhanced combustion efficiency.

Plants and factories experiencing these issues are advised to retrofit their blowers as soon as possible. In today’s competitive market, retrofitting provides businesses with a much-needed advantage. There are now many providers offering retrofitting services. They offer solutions customized to meet the unique needs of each business.