International. Fan manufacturer Ziehl-Abegg explained that to further reduce CO2 consumption, it developed its humpback whale system, which served as a model for the latest development of composite fans that also incorporates biomimicry characteristics of owls and trees. This improves the carbon footprint in two ways: through a significant reduction in the material used and lower energy consumption when operating in climate control equipment and industrial ventilation systems.
Ziehl-Abegg already has a maximum efficiency of more than 70 percent with its centrifugal fans, so every opportunity should be seized for performance optimization. The new centrifugal impeller has characteristics of three completely different approaches to biomimetics: from aerodynamics (ornithology) and hydrodynamics (marine biology) and biomechanics (trees). Savings in material content and improved aerodynamics halve the CO2 emissions associated with manufacturing, while maintaining the same ventilation performance. Modern injection molding tools, which cost more than half a million euros, allow the company to implement geometries that have been optimized through the application of Biomimicry.
The outlet edges of the fan blades are modeled on the wing of the owl. "As the quietest bird of prey, the owl has already been used as a role model for various designs," says CEO Peter Fenkl. The serrated dragged edges of the fans now look like a trademark of Ziehl-Abegg. However, on the new fan, the design of the teeth was a little smoother.
Evolution has optimized the flow efficiency of the humpback whale in such a way that, despite its body size, it is considered a very good and agile swimmer. Had it not been so, he would not have been able to make his long journeys through the world's oceans without having to feed. The latest generation of centrifugal fans at Ziehl-Abegg is now benefiting from this knowledge of Biomimicry.
