Industrial Exhaust Fan vs. Turbine Ventilator: The Ultimate Factory Cooling Showdown
If you own or manage a factory in Malaysia, you know the struggle of trapped heat. With metal roof temperatures reaching 45°C to 60°C, effective ventilation isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity for worker safety and productivity.
The two most common solutions are Industrial Exhaust Fans (Active) and Turbine Ventilators (Passive/Hybrid). But which one gives you the best Return on Investment (ROI)?
In this guide, we break down the costs, performance, and best use cases for each.
Quick Answer: Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Turbine Ventilators if you want zero electricity costs, have a high roof, and need continuous 24/7 heat extraction. They are best for general cooling of large open spaces.
- Choose Exhaust Fans if you have specific "hot spots" (like welding stations or ovens) that need rapid, high-velocity air removal, and you don't mind the monthly electricity bill.
1. Industrial Exhaust Fans (Wall-Mounted)
These are large electric fans (usually 30" to 50") installed on factory walls.
Pros
- High Airflow: A single 50" fan can move 20,000+ CFM of air.
- Controllable: Can be turned on/off as needed.
- Targeted Cooling: Great for pulling smoke or fumes away from a specific area.
Cons
- High Electricity Cost: Running 10 fans for 12 hours a day adds significantly to your TNB bill.
- Noise: Can be very loud (80dB+).
- Maintenance: Motors and belts need regular replacement.
- Negative Pressure Risk: If not balanced with intake, they can suck in dust from outside gaps.
2. Turbine Ventilators (Roof-Mounted)
These are the "onion" shaped vents you see spinning on roofs. They come in Passive (wind-driven) and Hybrid (solar-assisted) models.
Pros
- Zero to Low Operating Cost: Passive units cost RM 0 to run. Hybrid units use solar power.
- 24/7 Operation: They work continuously to remove heat build-up, even when the factory is closed.
- Silent: No motor noise.
- Leak-Proof: Good brands (like TTK) come with double-bearing systems and proper flashing.
Cons
- Lower Airflow per Unit: You need more units to match the airflow of one exhaust fan.
- Installation: Requires working on the roof (height access).
3. Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Industrial Exhaust Fan (50") | Hybrid Turbine Ventilator (24") |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Electricity (AC) | Wind + Solar |
| Airflow Capacity | ~22,000 CFM | ~2,500 - 3,000 CFM |
| Electricity Cost | High (~RM 100/month per unit) | Zero |
| Noise Level | Loud (80dB) | Silent |
| Maintenance | High (Belts/Motors) | Low (Sealed Bearings) |
| Rain Proof | Yes (with louvers) | Yes (if properly installed) |
| Lifespan | 3-5 Years | 10-15 Years |
4. ROI Calculation (The Money Talk)
Let's say you have a 10,000 sqft factory.
Scenario A: 6 Exhaust Fans
- Installation: RM 12,000
- Yearly Electricity: RM 7,200
- 5-Year Total Cost: RM 48,000
Scenario B: 20 Hybrid Turbine Ventilators
- Installation: RM 24,000
- Yearly Electricity: RM 0
- 5-Year Total Cost: RM 24,000
Winner: Even though Turbine Ventilators have a higher upfront cost, they save you ~50% over 5 years due to zero electricity usage.