Fan guards protect people from injuries caused by rotating blades and also provide a physical barrier around the fan to prevent accidental contact with fingers or other objects. They are usually made from metal wire, but may also be constructed out of plastic or other materials. They can be mounted on all types of fans, from industrial duct fans to household and automotive fans. In addition to providing safety and protection, they also optimize air flow, reduce noise and increase energy efficiency.
The welded type of fan guard, which is the most common, is typically used to protect fans in electronics, automobiles, and other mechanical devices that need to be cool or ventilated. They are available in a range of sizes and configurations to accommodate different applications, from small computer case fans to larger commercial industrial ducts. Some types of welded fan guards are designed to allow maximum airflow while others are more focused on minimizing noise and vibration.
Stainless steel is often used in the fabrication of welded wire fan guards, as it resists corrosion and can withstand a wide range of temperatures and pressures. They can be galvanized or coated with zinc to increase durability. Other materials that are commonly used in the construction of a welded fan guard include copper, aluminum alloys, and low-carbon steel. Regardless of the material used, they can be fabricated using several techniques including bending, cutting and welding.
Another type of fan guard is the injection molded variety, which is manufactured out of a variety of plastic materials that meet specific application needs. These materials can include nylon, polybutylene terephthalate, and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Injection molding allows for quick and accurate production, and it is capable of producing very complex three-dimensional geometries. It is also highly resistant to impact, abrasion, high temperature and humidity, and many chemicals and solvents.
Both welded and injection molded fan guards can be anodized, painted, or finished in different ways to suit the needs of an individual application. For example, in applications that require the fan guard to be exposed to the elements, a coating such as urethane or polyester can be applied. This helps to resist rust, water and corrosion, and can also provide resistance to UV exposure. For cosmetic purposes, fan guards can be nickel chromed or black plated.