Axial vs Centrifugal Fan Calculator
Compare which fan type suits your CFM and pressure requirement.
Enter your values
Enter the required airflow in CFM.
Enter the required static pressure in in wc.
Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.
- Recommended fan type
- Centrifugal fan (backward-curved or airfoil) — better suited to higher static pressure
- Pressure entered
- 3 in wc
- Typical axial fan limit
- ~0.75-1.5 in wc
- Typical centrifugal range
- 0.5 in wc to 20+ in wc
Quick answer
Axial fans suit high airflow at low pressure; centrifugal fans suit moderate airflow against higher static pressure.
Comparison against typical envelope: axial fans usually under 2 in wc, centrifugal fans handle much higher pressure
At a glance
| What it does | Compare which fan type suits your CFM and pressure requirement. |
|---|---|
| Category | HVAC & Airflow |
| Inputs needed | Required airflow, Required static pressure |
| Main output | Recommended fan type |
| Formula | Comparison against typical envelope: axial fans usually under 2 in wc, centrifugal fans handle much higher pressure |
| Cost | Free — no sign-up, no download |
How to use the Axial vs Centrifugal Fan Calculator
- 1Enter your required design CFM and static pressure.
- 2Read the recommended fan family based on where your point falls in typical fan-type operating envelopes.
- 3Confirm the final selection against manufacturer curves for the specific model.
Inputs explained
- Required airflow(CFM)
- Enter the required airflow in CFM.
- Required static pressure(in wc)
- Enter the required static pressure in in wc.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Required airflow8000 CFM
- Required static pressure3.0 in wc
Results
- Recommended fan typeCentrifugal fan (backward-curved or airfoil) — better suited to higher static pressure
- Pressure entered3 in wc
- Typical axial fan limit~0.75-1.5 in wc
- Typical centrifugal range0.5 in wc to 20+ in wc
Frequently asked questions
Why do axial fans struggle at high pressure?
Their blade design accelerates air mostly axially with limited pressure rise per stage before stalling.
Are centrifugal fans always quieter?
Not always — it depends on wheel type and speed, but backward-curved and airfoil wheels are generally quieter at a given duty than forward-curved.
What do I need to enter into the Axial vs Centrifugal Fan Calculator?
Just 2 values: required airflow, required static pressure. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.
How does the Axial vs Centrifugal Fan Calculator work out the answer?
Axial fans suit high airflow at low pressure; centrifugal fans suit moderate airflow against higher static pressure. It applies the formula Comparison against typical envelope: axial fans usually under 2 in wc, centrifugal fans handle much higher pressure and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.
Is the Axial vs Centrifugal Fan Calculator free, and do I need an account?
It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.