Industrial Cyclone Separator
Industrial-strength fans engineered for tough, particulate-laden environments.
AirPro // Applications
Centrifugal Fans for Cyclone Separator Applications
Cyclone separators are a critical part of air filtration and dust collection systems in process manufacturing. Positioned downstream of drying or material-handling operations, they use centrifugal force to separate heavier particulates from the airstream. Because cyclone environments handle heavy, abrasive, and material-laden air, they require rugged, high-performance induced-draft fans. These fans pull process air through the cyclone and direct it to the next stage—often a baghouse or cartridge dust collector, oxidizer, or industrial exhaust system.
Your cyclone separator’s airflow volume, particulate characteristics, and pressure requirements determine the exact fan design and specifications.
Industries That Rely on Cyclone Separator Fans
Many varied industries from grain and distilleries, to metals, plastic, and corrugated paper use a cyclone separator in their processes.
Cyclone separators—and the fans that power them—are common across industries where dust and particulates are present, including:
- Grain, milling, and distilleries
- Plastics and corrugated paper
- Metals and foundries
- Chemical and process industries
- Aggregates processing
- Biomass and wood processing
Fan Selection & Specification for Cyclone Separators
High-efficiency cyclone separators create higher air velocities, leading to increased pressure drop. This requires larger, more powerful fans with higher energy input. Selecting the right fan balances efficiency, durability, and performance in abrasive conditions.
While a Radial Tipped (RTHS) design is often the preferred choice, the optimal fan model depends on the specifics of your process, particle load, and system requirements.
Common Fan Designs for Cyclone Applications
- Radial Tipped (RTHS, RTMS)
- Industrial Exhauster Air Handling (IEAH)
- Industrial Exhauster Paddle Wheel (IEPW / IEFB)
- Industrial Exhauster Radial Shrouded (IERS)
FEATURED FAN
Custom IEAH Fan for Pellet Cooler Cyclone in Feed Mill
AirPro engineered a heavy-duty Size 530 IEAH fan for a pellet cooler cyclone application in a feed mill, custom-built to match the customer’s existing footprint. The fan supports efficient separation of pellets from dust during cooling, with a partial backward-inclined blade and tapered shroud to reduce buildup and boost efficiency.
Constructed from epoxy-coated carbon steel, both the airstream and wheel components offer long-term durability. A 315-degree inlet box aligns with existing ductwork, while the V-belt drive is safely enclosed in OSHA-compliant, canary yellow guards—delivering performance, protection, and the signature AirPro finish.
- Product Type: IEAH (industrial exhaust air handling)
- Description: Class 45, Arr. 1, 250ºF max temp design
- Performance: 30,000 CFM @ 26″ wg static pressure
- Features: Custom-designed; 176 HP motor; partial backward inclined blade with a tapered shroud; epoxy-coated steel carbon; fan inlet; inlet box
Cyclone Separator Fan Arrangements & Design Considerations
Fan Arrangements indicate how the motors mount to and drive the fans. The cyclone separator typically calls for an Arrangement 4 or 4v direct-drive motor with an outlet damper, but on very large systems it’s likely to be an Arrangement 8 coupled direct drive or an Arrangement 1 belt-driven fan.
Common cyclone separator arrangement options:
Arrangement 4 – Direct Drive with an overhung impeller. A low-cost arrangement, the fan wheel mounts directly on the motor shaft.
Arrangement 4V / Top Mount – Direct Drive with an overhung impeller. The wheel also mounts directly on the motor shaft, but in a vertical position.
Arrangement 8 – Direct Coupled Drive with an overhung impeller. The wheel mounts to a shaft supported by pillow block bearings, and directly couples to the motor shaft.
Arrangement 1 – Belt Drive with an overhung impeller. The fan and motor mount separately to a unitary base.
Fan Design & Accessory Considerations for Cyclone Separators
Designing the right fan for a cyclone separator isn’t just about selecting wheel type—it’s about protecting performance, extending equipment life, and preventing costly downtime. For example, radial wheel designs have overloading power curves, so if static pressure is overestimated and there is no way to scale back airflow, motors mayover-amp. These risks highlight the importance of partnering with experienced engineers who can evaluate system requirements and specify the correct fan and accessories.
Industrial cyclone separator applications often have several or all the following items included:
- Stainless Steel Airstreams – for highly corrosive airstreams depending on local conditions and temperature requirements
- Flow Control Options – includes inlet vane dampers, variable frequency drives (VFD), outlet dampers, or a combination, each offering control over airflow volume and pressure
- Outlet Silencers – Reduce noise levels at the fan outlet for safer, quieter operations
- Flex Connectors – to accommodate shifting during rapid temperature change
- Inlet Box – a solution for installations with limited ductwork space on the inlet side
- Split Housing – for easier maintenance access to the fan wheel and shaft
- Vibration and Temperature Sensors – to monitor bearing and fan health and prevent unplanned outages
- Vibration Isolators – to help the blower stay in balance
Connect with a Cyclone Separator Expert
Our experienced application engineers are ready to help you find the right fan. Whether you’re replacing an existing unit or designing a new system, we’ll make sure you get a solution that fits your specs, timeline, and budget.
Call, email, or submit your info to get started and our team will respond quickly.
