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Events and Exhibitions
This dynamic control is only possible when fans are connected to a larger network of systems – lighting, heating, access control – and able to‘ talk’ to each other. EC motors with integrated controllers are ideal in this role, providing both performance data and the flexibility to adapt on the fly.
Another benefit of smart integration is predictive maintenance. By continuously monitoring fan vibration, motor temperature and energy draw, systems can detect problems before they cause failures. Maintenance becomes preventative, not reactive – saving costs and avoiding downtime.
Moreover, insights from fan performance data can feed into broader energy management strategies. Facility managers can assess system efficiency not just in kilowatt-hours, but in airflow per watt, identifying opportunities to optimise or retrofit specific components. This is the next era of air movement technology.
RETROFITS: UNLOCKING NEW PERFORMANCE FROM OLD SYSTEMS One of the most impactful applications of EC and smart technology is in retrofitting existing fan systems. Many buildings still rely on outdated, belt-driven fans with fixed-speed AC motors
Supplied by ebm-papst
– systems that are inefficient, noisy and costly to run.
Replacing these with direct-drive EC plug fans can deliver dramatic improvements. Not only do plug fans offer better performance in compact spaces, but their design simplifies installation, without needing ducting modification. When sized correctly, they reduce both energy use and noise while improving
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RACA Journal I November 2025 www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za