PPV fans: Selecting the right power

By Mark van der Feyst

There are different styles and types of positive-pressure fans. Manufacturers make fans that operate on electrical, water and gasoline power. There are useful applications for each. Electrical- and gasoline-powered fans are the two most common. The gasoline powered fan will produce more CFMs than an electrical fan, but can only be used in an outdoor environment. That's because its internal-combustion engine emits exhaust fumes.

When ventilate horizontally inside a structure such as an apartment building or office tower, the electrical fan will be the best choice. It works using the building's power supply. These are also much quieter and do not emit toxic gases. When selecting a positive-pressure fan for the fire ground operation, look at where the operation will be taking place and what power supply is available.