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FAN FAQ TOPICS:
What is the secret behind VENTRY propellers?
Our props are manufactured on-site, one-by-one, using state-of-the-art proprietary technology. We utilize the ideal number of blades (two) and the ideal composition (wood, Kevlar and fiberglass) for optimum efficiency, air volume, and safety with minimum noise. Click here for the complete story. . .
Why do you use wooden propellers on your fans?
Our propellers are wood composites of cedar, Kevlar and fiberglass. Many people hold misperceptions of the wood component, thinking erroneously that metal props would be better than wood. In fact, the opposite is true. The composition of our propellers makes them much safer, more durable, and more efficient than metal (details).The fan is designed to survive tip-overs without damage. It is also fail-safe. If someone accidentally sticks a fire ax through the guard, the prop will turn into toothpicks with very little momentum. We get a very big thank you for that feature about twice a year. With a new prop, you are back in busineess with minimal expense and no bent crankshaft or injuries. Also, light prop damage is rebuildable; we send out a rebuilt prop for half the price of a new one and you return the core.Here’s how John Neils once answered the question of “Why wood? Wouldn’t a metal propeller be better?”:
There are a multitude of both engineering and production reasons for using wood cores on our props. First, wood is light and the cellular matrix dampens vibrations much better than metal. Every time the gasoline engine generates a power stroke it is resisted by the mass of the prop. By keeping the prop mass low, we lower vibration which cuts down on fan walking. [VENTRY Fans are known for being extremely stable.] Wood also enables us a fail-safe design; when an accident occurs, the wood will splinter and turn into toothpicks which don’t have enough energy to force their way through a guard. Wood allows us to design the props so that in a strike situation they fail progressively from the tip instead of failing at the root with catastrophic consequences. In such a case, the engine crankshaft will not bend or fail so repair is easy. Wood is easily fabricated, giving us the flexibility to design and then fine-tune the pitch and airfoil to match the engine and desired airflow characteristics.
Metal does have one advantage over wood and that is durability. That is why we developed a process that pressure bonds Kevlar and fiberglass to the wood core. With this coating, our propellers enjoy the safety and unique characteristics of wood while meeting the durability of metal. Our fans’ performance is proof of the efficacy of the design.
Our props require a fair amount of hand labor but the effort is worth it. About once a year we get a telephone call thanking us for the fail-safe characteristics of the prop. In most cases, we can rebuild a damaged prop. We maintain a rebuilt prop inventory so if you need one we can ship it immediately and then give you a credit when you return your core.
Hope this answers your question. ~ John Neils
