Analysis of Wear Issues in Forward-Curved Multi-Blade Fans

In the practical application of forward-curved multi-blade fans, wear issues are inevitable. In particular, the transmission components suffer from more severe wear. In this context, it can be argued that this is largely related to the manufacturing process of forward-curved multi-blade fans. This often involves the adjustment mechanisms between components. We will now analyse the wear conditions of forward-curved multi-blade fans. Regarding the primary wear issues, our research indicates that they are specific to forward-curved multi-blade fan units. The primary wear issues include wear of the bearing components, wear of the bearing housing, wear of the shaft shoulder, and wear of the bore and shaft. What measures should be taken to address these various component wear issues? In practice, these issues can be addressed using a variety of methods. Commonly used treatment methods primarily include surface welding, arc welding and brush welding. However, these repair methods have several drawbacks. For instance, when using repair welding, the thermal stress on the unit may increase due to the effects of high temperatures, making it difficult to eliminate entirely. In such cases, the material of the forward-curved multi-blade fan will suffer a certain degree of damage, and its service life will be shortened. Furthermore, if brush welding is used, the resulting coating tends to be thick, and the deposited metal is prone to flaking off, failing to provide a fundamental improvement. Furthermore, if the fan continues to be used, the supporting components of the forward-curved multi-blade fan will suffer renewed wear under the combined effects of various stresses, as well as axial and radial forces. Therefore, regarding this issue, it is recommended that measures be taken according to specific circumstances, such as utilising polymer composite materials for repair. Additionally, to mitigate the wear issues of the forward-curved multi-blade fan to some extent, it is necessary to select materials with excellent compressive strength and corrosion resistance.