Qiba fan

The installation of soft connections (also known as flexible joints, canvas joints, non-metallic compensators, etc.) at the inlet and outlet of centrifugal fans is a very important and necessary step in the design of fan systems. Its main functions are reflected in the following aspects:

Core role. During the operation of the fan, the rotation of the impeller inevitably generates vibration. If these vibrations are directly transmitted through rigid pipelines, they will:
Damaged pipeline system: resulting in loose flange connections, cracked welds, and support failure. 

Transmitting to the building structure: generating uncomfortable structural noise (buzzing sound) that affects the environment. 

Impact on other devices: Vibration may be transmitted to other sensitive devices connected to it. Soft connections, as flexible components, can effectively absorb and isolate vibrations generated by fans, prevent their propagation along pipelines, protect pipeline systems and building structures, and significantly reduce noise.

Thermal expansion and contraction: During system operation (hot air) and shutdown (cooling), metal pipes will undergo thermal expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. If the import and export are rigidly connected, huge thermal stress will act on the fan flange and pipeline flange, which may cause flange leakage, weld cracking, and even deformation and damage to the fan housing.

Installation error: It is difficult to achieve absolute precise alignment between the inlet and outlet flanges of the fan and the pipeline flange during on-site installation, and there will always be some angular deviation or axial/radial offset.

Foundation settlement: Minor uneven settlement may occur between the fan foundation and the pipeline support foundation.

Fan self displacement: Large fans may experience slight axial or radial displacement of the main shaft during startup, shutdown, or variable operating conditions.

Soft connections have good flexibility and deformation ability, which can effectively compensate for axial, lateral, and angular displacements caused by the above reasons, eliminate stress concentration, and protect fans and pipeline systems from damage.

Soft connections provide a certain degree of "looseness", making it easier to install the fan inlet and outlet in alignment with the pipeline, reducing installation accuracy requirements.

When disassembling the fan for maintenance or replacement, simply loosen the flange bolts at both ends of the soft connection, without damaging or dismantling large sections of rigid pipes, greatly simplifying maintenance work.

High quality soft connections can effectively seal the connection between the inlet and outlet of the fan and the pipeline, prevent gas (especially those containing dust, harmful or high-temperature gases) leakage, and ensure system efficiency and environmental safety.