Fan has a key role in HVAC appliance, it participates in the heat transfer and the air circulation. It’s why, fans are found in many HVAC systems. The usage of EPP on fans installation has its advantages as well, and will be the key topic of this article.
HVAC systems are designed for intensive use several hours a day, including those which can be subject to non-stop operation. For manufacturer, it’s mandatory to manage this component properly:
- A fan makes noise.
- It’s necessary to fix it in correct position to be efficient.
- It requires electrical connection and sometimes other components.
So, let’s take a closer look what are the benefits of using EPP for mounting fans in HVAC appliance.
Why use EPP on fans installation?
Expanded polypropylene (EPP) is a lightweight, easy-to-mould material with a high thermal and acoustic insulation capacity. Using EPP as a material in HVAC systems allows for more powerful, more efficient, lighter, and quieter equipment.
While this material is 100% recyclable Knauf Industries engineers go a step further. They have recently developed a recycled alternative to EPP. It is RELOOPP®, a recycled and recyclable material, that improves the sustainability profile of the final system. Its properties are comparable with regular expanded polypropylene; however, its CO2 footprint is considerably lower.
Comparison of EPP with other traditional HVAC materials
In residential equipment, EPP is a well-established, customisable and efficient solution for heat recovery ventilation units, plenum boxes, ducts, or manifolds. In this sector EPP has built its reputation as an alternative to more traditional HVAC materials like sheet metal.
From a perspective of a manufacturer, what is better, to continue using the same old materials or to innovate with EPP? We will perform a comparative analysis of EPP against traditional HVAC materials such as stainless steel and plastic.
EPP vs metal
The metal is easily moulded and is resistant to impact and deformation. And although it is a very good conductor of heat, it adds weight to the unit and requires additional fixings. In addition, some metals are sensitive to corrosion by moisture.
The EPP moulded parts on fans installation are click-fitted, which facilitates the initial assembly of the unit and any subsequent maintenance work. They also provide excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. Not forgetting the visual aspect, which is much more elegant and contemporary.
EPP vs. plastic
Conventional plastic moulds easily and resists moisture and corrosion very well. The most common are polyvinyl (PVC), polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP).
However, these materials are brittle under pressure and do not provide noise insulation. Although they are recyclable, not all of them have a low-cost mechanical recycling like EPP.
Benefits of EPP on HVAC fans mounting
As mentioned above, fans are designed to run for many hours at a time. This is why it is so important to choose materials, like EPP, that provide efficiency throughout the life cycle of the equipment.
Improving energy efficiency
We have already seen that the function of the fans is not to modify the temperature, but to move the air. In the case of decentralised ventilation units, the fans are involved in the continuous renewal of the room air while maintaining the indoor heat. Manufacturing these components of the fan in EPP optimises this function.
In addition, the thermal insulation of the EPP in fans installation prevents the unit from overheating, a circumstance that increases the energy consumption of these systems and encourages breakdowns.
Both factors are crucial for manufacturers looking to increase the efficiency of an HVAC fan with EPP, as required by EU energy efficiency regulations, and to ensure maximum customer safety.
Durability and longevity
Fans must run for tens of thousands of hours without wear and tear. This is where the high mechanical strength of this foam turns the durability of EPP in HVAC systems into a competitive advantage for manufacturing components.
Sound insulation
Industrial fans are large and can generate a deafening noise. Consisting of 95% air, EPP cells dampen engine vibrations and neutralise noise. This ensures the insulation of the HVAC fan with EPP. This fan noise reduction with EPP is ideal for naturally noisy working environments such as warehouses or industrial kitchens.
Lightweight and easy to install
The lightening of HVAC fans with EPP allows the manufacturer to offer equipment that is easier to install and uninstall in case of repair.
Long-term cost savings
Whether for industrial or domestic use, the end customer wants this equipment to work well, be energy efficient and not break down. And, in the event of a breakdown, the devicesshould easily repaired. The latter is achieved by installing customised click-to-fix boxes or ducts that eliminate screws, washers, nuts and other fasteners.
The cost savings of HVAC fans with EPP over the entire life cycle is a factor that market leading manufacturers already offer as a competitive advantage.
Sustainability passport
The product passport is an EU proposal for a circular economy with indications about the processing of materials at the end of the product lifecycle. By its easy recycling and the elimination of fasteners made from other materials, EPP is sustainable for HVAC fans.
The advantages of a commercial fan with EPP quickly translate into savings and quietness for the end user.
Do not hesitate to contact our team for further information.
