Heavy-Duty Centrifugal Fan Performance Verified Through AMCA 210 Testing
Design, Customization, and Testing Behind a Custom Centrifugal Build
In March 2026, we held a representative training event at our Piqua, Ohio facility. During the event, our team witnessed our newest heavy-duty centrifugal fan undergoing AMCA 210 performance testing in our on-site laboratory. The level of interest was telling. It prompted us to take a closer look at the engineering decisions behind the unit and the testing methods that validate real-world performance.
Why Testing Matters
In industrial fan applications, testing is the bridge between engineering design and field reliability. Put simply, our objective for this project was straightforward: confirm that we engineered a heavy-duty centrifugal fan capable of operating under specific combinations of high static pressure, demanding duty cycles, and challenging environmental conditions.
Design Built Around Your Application
Our approach is simple. The fan should fit your application, not the other way around.
Because no two industrial airflow systems operate the same way, high static pressure, continuous operation, tight installation spaces, and harsh environments often demand a custom centrifugal fan design rather than a standard off-the-shelf setup.
Specifically, for this AMCA-tested unit, we implemented several structural and mechanical modifications to support long-term performance in high-demand service. Here's what went into this build:
First, external motor and bearing mounting for easier maintenance access.
A single-piece side plate for added structural rigidity.
Full fillet welds at overlap joints, which provide long-term durability in high-stress service.
In addition, a neoprene shaft seal with dual shaft plates to guard against leakage and contamination.
A wider A-frame pedestal with increased thickness for the motor and bearing top plates.
Up-gauged 1/4" housing and increased scroll stiffeners to reduce radiated sound and vibration.
Anti-thrust fins on the wheel for axial stability.
Finally, precision G2.5 wheel balance and overall BV4 fan balance.
Why These Design Choices Matter
Easier Maintenance and Access
Mounting the motor and bearing externally makes maintenance easier. As a result, when service is needed, technicians can access critical parts without taking apart the entire fan assembly.
Structural Integrity Under Load
A single-piece side plate and full fillet welds at overlap joints work together to boost housing stiffness. Compared to spot welds, fillet welds deliver stronger joint strength, which improves durability in vibration-heavy settings and high-stress continuous operation.
Protection Against Contamination
The neoprene shaft seal with dual shaft plates creates a barrier against both internal leakage and external contamination. Consequently, in demanding environments, this protection extends drive assembly life and reduces unplanned downtime.
Pedestal Strength and Alignment
A wider A-frame pedestal with increased thickness supports motor and bearing assemblies more effectively. In turn, this design reduces deflection, maintains alignment, and extends service life under continuous loads.
Reduced Vibration and Noise
An up-gauged 1/4" housing combined with increased scroll stiffeners increases overall structural rigidity. As a result, there is less vibration passing through ductwork and reduced radiated noise in industrial settings.
Axial Stability
Anti-thrust fins on the wheel manage internal pressure and reduce axial movement. Over time, this limits seal wear and lowers bearing stress.
Verified Balance Standards
Precision G2.5 wheel balance and BV4 fan balance (ISO-defined standards) reduce vibration and contribute to longer bearing and system life. Every unit meets these tight tolerances before leaving our facility.
Testing in an Accredited Laboratory
All performance data for this fan was generated in our own AMCA-accredited laboratory in Piqua. Because we have in-house testing, our engineering teams can review results in real time and directly link design changes with measured outcomes.
Our facility supports a wide operating range: for example, airflow testing up to 50,000 CFM in a 12-foot chamber, and pressure testing up to 80 inches water gauge in a dedicated high-pressure chamber. This controlled setting ensures every fan is verified against AMCA 210 standards before field release.
However, one important note: AMCA-accredited testing confirms performance of the specific unit tested under defined conditions. It does not extend to all possible setups or design variations.
Let's Talk About Your Application
If you're specifying equipment for a demanding environment, give us a call.
📞 1-800-336-3267
📧 info@hartzell.com