All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier
(896 products available)
Market Overview: The global market for ventilation fans, including rectangular inline duct fans, was valued at approximately $2.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $2.7 billion by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.6% during this period, according to Global Industry Analysts, Inc. A notable driver of this growth is the increasing demand for efficient air circulation in both residential and commercial settings. The axial fans segment, which encompasses rectangular inline duct fans, is expected to grow significantly, reaching $688.3 million by 2030, with a CAGR of 4.6%. This trend highlights the rising importance of energy-efficient solutions in ventilation systems amidst growing environmental concerns.
Regional Dynamics: In terms of regional insights, the U.S. market for ventilation fans was estimated at $541.0 million in 2023, while China is forecasted to grow at an impressive 6.2% CAGR, reaching $592.6 million by 2030. The demand for rectangular inline duct fans is particularly pronounced in urban areas, where space constraints necessitate compact and efficient ventilation solutions. As industries increasingly prioritize sustainability, consumer behavior is shifting towards products that offer both performance and energy efficiency. This shift is influencing distribution channel preferences as well, with online platforms like Alibaba.com becoming vital for connecting suppliers and buyers in this evolving market landscape.
A rectangular inline duct fan boosts airflow within ducting systems. Here are some common types of inline duct fans:
Blower:
An HVAC blower duct fan measures airflow in CFM (cubic feet per minute). Blowers create onward airflow, thus becoming the preferred choice for venting stoves and kitchens. External AC blower fans work in complete silence, while internal blower fans produce some noise. When used for home heating, the machine's purpose is to spread heat derived from other components like the furnace and coil throughout the home.
Inline Duct Booster Fan:
This participatory fan needs the presence of other components like grills, registers, and the central HVAC system. It will take the cue from other system parts to force more heated or cooled air into occupied living spaces. The presence of an inline duct booster fan eliminates naturally occurring cold or hot areas, improving a home's overall comfort level. Inline duct booster fans could be constant on or current sensing. A constant on fan will run all the time, while a current sensing fan will run only when the airflow is present. Current sensing fan will also be referred to as a demand mode booster fan. Another type of inline duct booster fan is a remote switch booster fan, which will be manually switched on or off.
Squirrel Cage Fan:
This fan has a unique design that includes an electric motor with durable plastic blades enclosed in a round housing that resembles a cage. The caged rotor inside spins like a wheel, thereby blowing air. It is used in the home to rectangular vents and furnaces.
Due to the diversity in their applications and uses, rectangular inline duct fans come in a wide range of specifications.
Airflow
The airflow performance of a rectangular inline duct fan is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). CFM indicates the volume of air that a duct fan moves within one minute. Different airflow performance is available to match the specific needs of different environments.
Power
The power of a rectangular inline duct fan is measured in watts. Higher power usually means that the duct fan can operate at a higher airflow and noise levels.
Pressure
The static pressure performance of a rectangular inline duct fan is measured in inches of water gauge (in wg). Higher static pressure indicates that the duct fan can overcome greater resistance and airflow through the ventilation system. This is especially important for ventilation systems with multiple bends and long lengths.
Noise
The noise of the duct fan is measured in decibels (dB). Lower noise levels are preferable, especially in residential and office environments.
Material
Many rectangular inline duct fans on the market now use plastic housings which are lighter and easier to install. However, metal housing duct fans are more rigid and less deformable and are preferred for high-performance requirements.
Speed
Some rectangular inline duct fans feature adjustable speeds or multifunctional models. Their speed can be changed to meet different ventilation needs and environmental demands.
It is crucial to keep inline duct fans in great condition in order to sustain their optimum performance and prolong their lifespan. The following maintenance tips will help:
Regular Cleaning
Users should create a regular cleaning schedule for the duct fan and stick to it. Use a soft brush and a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and dirt from the fan blade to prevent buildup and subsequent blocking of airflow.
Check for Damage
Regularly inspect the duct fan for any signs of damage including deformed fan blades, loose or damaged parts, and any other abnormalities. If damaging signs appear, users should repair or replace the affected components to avoid possible more serious damage and further affect the fan's performance.
Lubrication
If the duct fan has lubrication points for the bearings and shafts, those points should be lubricated periodically. Doing so can allow movements to function better and make them less worn.
Check the Power Supply
Users should also check the power supply of the duct fan on a routine basis. Make sure that the power cables are not damaged, and ensure that the connection is secure and reliable to avoid power interruptions and safety hazards.
Rectangular inline duct fans are used in various applications across multiple industries. Below are some key usages of this device.
Indoor Environment Regulation
A rectangular inline duct fan is used to extract indoor air, which may be laden with pollutants, moisture, heat, and CO2, thus making room for the fresh air to come in. Consequently, both the air quality and comfort of a space are boosted. Such a usage is common in workplaces, schools, restaurants, and other public occasions where people gather.
Industrial Ventilation
Factories usually have machines that produce a large amount of heat during operation. Adding inline duct fans to the ventilation system can help disperse the heat quickly and lower the temperature in the workshops. This not only enhances working conditions but also improves equipment reliability and longevity.
Fume Extraction
Inline duct fans are of great help when it comes to removing hazardous gases, smoke, and fumes generated during processes like welding, chemical experiments, or equipment operations. The fan assists in expelling these dangerous substances from the workspace to prevent worker exposure and ensure a safe working environment.
Air Transport
Rectangular inline duct fans are capable of conveying various types of air, which means they can be used to deliver different types of air. Such scenarios include conveying the raw material of powdered and atomized substances and the transfer of clean air, toxic air, and other special air.
Heat Recovery
If equipped with a heat recovery ventilator, inline duct fans can assist in recovering and reusing the heat from exhaust air. This not only reduces energy consumption but also helps mitigate environmental impact.
Cleanrooms and Controlled Environments
In places like hospitals, laboratories, and pharmaceutical factories that have high ventilation standards, inline duct fans play an essential role in ensuring both the proper airflow and the environmental cleanliness of the space.
Dehumidification and Drying
Duct fans can be utilized in the dehumidification and drying processes. Whether it's the extraction of humid air or the injection of warm air, the fans can help accelerate the evaporation process and improve drying efficiency.
Agriculture and Horticulture
Inline duct fans are commonly used in greenhouses and farms. They can regulate the greenhouse air circulation and promote plant growth by providing proper ventilation and controlling temperature and humidity.
Due to their versatility, rectangular inline duct fans are also suitable for many other applications when combined with different ventilation systems and environmental control needs.
When buying a rectangular inline duct fan for resale, the following tips should help choose the right fans.
Know Target Audience
Understand the features of the target audience. Are they home or commercial users? If targeting commercial users, they'll likely need powerful inline duct fans with larger CFM. On the other hand, a residential user may need smaller fans that are quieter and more energy efficient.
Popular Applications
Consider the popular applications for the inline duct fans. Food service customers will likely buy rectangular duct exhaust fans to put over kitchen hoods to remove heat and moisture. Warehouses, workshops, and factories use them for cooling, while HVAC contractors use them for ventilation in air conditioning systems.
Ease of Installation
Rectangular inline duct fans with pre-mounted or snap-on installation features will appeal to most users. Such designs ease installation and cut additional installation costs.
Safety Certifications
Choose fans with safety certifications, such as CE and UL, as these will benefit the resale business. The certifications show the quality and safety of the products. Also, customers are more likely to ask for these fans because they are safe and durable.
Price and Warranty
Pricing will be an important factor to consider when choosing duct fans. Select suppliers that offer competitive pricing to give a good profit margin. Also, choose models that come with a warranty. Warranties will encourage customers to buy duct fans confidently.
Q: How is a rectangular inline duct fan different from a round duct fan?
A: The main difference between a rectangular inline duct fan and a round one lies in the shape and design. A rectangular duct fan is made to fit into air handling systems and ducts that have rectangular sections. Conversely, a round inline duct fan suits circular ducting typically used in many HVAC systems.
Q: Can someone connect a rectangular inline duct fan directly to a power supply?
A: No. It is not advisable to connect the fan directly to a power supply. The speed of the fan needs to be controlled to avoid excessive noise and airflow. Always use a fan speed controller or a duct smoke detector with a delay control.
Q: What are some benefits of using a rectangular inline duct fan?
A: The fan helps to boost the movement of air within an HVAC system. It overcomes airflow restrictions caused by long duct runs. Additionally, the inline duct fan improves ventilation in specific rooms, eliminates musty and moldy odors, and enhances the comfort of interior spaces by allowing temperature regulation.
Q: How long can a rectangular inline duct fan last?
A: If properly maintained and periodically inspected, the inline duct fan can easily last from 5 to 10 years or even longer depending upon the build quality.
