Wall Ring Heating Element for Axial Fans
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Solution Overview
Problem
Axial fans used in low-temperature applications face the challenge of ice formation on the wall ring, leading to inefficiencies due to the high energy required for heating and subsequent heat loss, which reduces energy efficiency in cold-storage rooms.
Innovation Solution
A thermally insulating covering profile is affixed to the outside of the annular body, enclosing an air chamber for the electric heating element, which reduces heat loss and ensures efficient heating by generating heat where needed, preventing ice formation between the fan blades and wall ring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electric heating element is installed on the wall ring to prevent ice formation, then ice formation is prevented, but heat loss to the surroundings increases and energy efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is positioned locally at the inner circumference of the wall ring where ice formation occurs, rather than heating the entire wall ring surface. The insulating covering confines the heat to this local area, directing thermal energy precisely where needed to prevent ice formation between fan blades and the wall ring.
Solution Approach 2:
A thermally insulating covering is introduced as an intermediary layer between the heating element and the surrounding environment. This covering profile made of insulating material (such as foamed plastic) acts as a thermal barrier that redirects heat toward the wall ring interior while minimizing heat loss to the surroundings.
2Reliability
If a heating element is installed on the wall ring to melt ice, then ice is melted, but the amount of heat entering the cold-storage room increases and energy efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating function is localized to the inner surface of the wall ring where ice accumulation occurs. By positioning the heating element and confining heat with the insulating covering, energy is concentrated only where needed rather than heating the entire wall ring structure, reducing overall energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating covering that would normally trap heat and cause energy loss is instead used beneficially to direct heat where needed. The covering converts potential heat waste into useful thermal energy at the wall ring interior, preventing ice formation while minimizing energy consumption.
3Reliability
If the heating element is permanently fixed to the wall ring, then heating is effective, but installation and maintenance become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The heating system is segmented into separate components: the heating element and the insulating covering profile. The covering profile is divided into multiple sections that can be independently installed and removed. This modular design allows the heating element to be permanently fixed for effectiveness while the covering can be easily installed and maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating covering profile is designed with dynamic installation characteristics - it can be easily attached and detached from the wall ring. The covering profile includes installation features such as engagement ribs and corresponding recesses that enable simple mounting and removal, allowing the system to transition between installed and maintenance states.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively reduces ice formation and heat loss, enhancing energy efficiency by directing heat input directly to the wall ring, minimizing heat release to the surroundings and maintaining operational efficiency in cold environments.
Implementation Method 1
a wall ring (1) for receiving, in particular, an axial fan (6), comprising an annular body (1) having a central longitudinal axis (X-X), with a flow inlet opening (2) and a flow outlet opening (3), and, in particular, comprising an electric heating element (12) that is arranged at least over part of the circumference of the annular body (1)
Implementation Method 2
a covering profile (9) made of a thermally insulating material that is removably affixed to the outside of the annular body (1), at least over part of the circumference, said covering profile (9)—together with the annular body (1)—enclosing a receiving space (11) for the electric heating element (12)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a wall ring for receiving an axial fan in particular, comprising an annular body with a central longitudinal axis, a flow inlet opening, a flow outlet opening, and an electric heating element in particular, said heating element being arranged on at least some sections of the circumference of the annular body. A profiled covering section made of a thermally insulating material is removably fixed to an outer surface of the annular body at least in some sections of the circumference, said profiled covering section together with the annular body forming a receiving area in the region of the annular wall of the annular body in order to receive the electric heating element.