In electronic equipment and electromechanical products, cooling fans are key cooling components, and their performance directly affects system stability and service life. Therefore, fan selection is not arbitrary, but should be judged step by step based on scientific processes. Chungfo summarizes six selection steps to help you select the right fan model efficiently and accurately!

Step 1: Determine the operating voltage and fan type

Common fan voltages are 12V, 24V, 48V. After clarifying the voltage, choose the appropriate fan type:

AC fan (AC fan)

Features: metal frame

Advantages: no adapter required, strong surge resistance, low cost

Disadvantages: narrow speed range, non-adjustable speed, no FG/RD signal

DC fan (DC fan)

Features: plastic injection frame

Advantages: safe voltage, various sizes and speeds optional, support speed regulation, with FG/RD signal and stall protection

Disadvantages: relatively loud noise at high speed

EC fan (AC/DC universal)

Features: AC/DC compatible, plastic injection frame

Advantages: wide voltage adjustable, with speed measurement and alarm, suitable for high-performance equipment

Disadvantages: high price, relatively weak surge resistance

Step 2: Choose the fan type

Choose according to the usage scenario and wind path structure The following types:

Axial flow fan

The airflow direction is parallel to the axis, commonly seen in power supplies and cabinets

Large air volume, medium pressure, easy installation

Cross flow fan (crossflow fan)

Suitable for large surface cooling, uniform airflow distribution

Low air volume and pressure, low noise, commonly used in printers, instruments and meters

Centrifugal fan

The air inlet and outlet are 90°, with high air pressure, suitable for occasions requiring curved air paths

Suitable for high-density equipment such as servers and small air conditioners

Blower （/5v-12v-24v-dc-brushless-cooling-electric-blower-centrifugal-fan_p73.html）

The structure is similar to that of a centrifugal fan, but with smaller air volume and more concentrated air pressure

Used for local forced cooling or purge

Step 3: Confirm air volume and air pressure requirements

These key parameters can be obtained through simulation with thermal design software (such as ICEPAK, Flotherm), or estimated through empirical calculations:

Air volume (CFM)

Air pressure (mmH₂O or Pa)

PQ curve, noise (dBA), current, power consumption, etc.

Step 4: Lock in brand and technical parameters

Select specific products based on the following factors:

Brand/model

Size (e.g. 60×60×15mm)

Rated voltage/current

Speed (RPM)

Air volume/ Wind pressure

Noise value

Step 5: Select bearing type and protection level

Bearing type:

Oil-containing bearing: about 30,000 hours @25℃

Hydraulic bearing: about 30,000 hours @40℃

Ball bearing: about 50,000 hours @40℃

Protection level (IP):

IP55: dustproof and splashproof

IP67: rainproof

IP68: can run continuously in water

Step 6: Function and installation details

Common functions:

FG (speed feedback)

RD (fault alarm)

PWM (speed regulation function)

Automatic restart

Installation points:

Fan frame type (whether with mounting holes)

Wire lead method (split/parallel/twisted wire)

Wire length default: frame to terminal

Common terminal models: HX2.54, PH2.0, 2510, airplane head, etc.

Subsequent process: sample verification and mass production

After completing the selection, the manufacturer will provide the product specification for review, and send the sample for testing after confirmation. After the test is passed, you can enter the batch purchase stage. If there are special customization requirements (such as frame material, explosion-proof, anti-corrosion, special environment adaptation, etc.), it is recommended to give priority to cooperation with factories with mold design and chip R&D capabilities, such as Chungfo Electronics, which can meet your customized fan needs in one stop.

If you need fan selection guidance, specification customization or sample application, please contact the Chungfo Electronics technical team, we will provide you with professional one-to-one support!