The antibacterial fan
Germs and bacteria do not stand a chance in the air flow
In medical and food technology, hygiene is the topmost priority. Therefore, manufacturers in these industries increasingly require devices made from antimicrobial materials or having corresponding coatings. ebm-papst has now developed an entire series of axial fans equipped with an antibacterial feature.
The chemical basis of the special surface is zeolite doped with silver ions, which is worked into the basic polymer of the fan. The two natural materials render viruses and bacteria harmless in different ways. Catalytic oxidation cuts off the oxygen supply to pathogens, while a reaction with the cellular membranes and a connection to the DNA of the pathogens prevents them from ingesting nutrients or reproducing.
Other benefits of the coating are its long-term effectiveness and complete harmlessness to people, animals and plants. It attacks micro-organisms and fungi only.
ebm-papst's R&D partner was US-based AgION. For over ten years, the experts in silver-based antibacterial agents have successfully researched and used this method in a variety of applications and in many different industries.
To visually distinguish the treated fans, the doped plastic material of the new line is coloured in the typical green of operating rooms. The five fans, with diameters of 172, 200, 230, 250 and 300 mm and an average air flow of 200 m³/h to 1400 m³/h, work at ambient temperatures between -30 °C and +50 °C.