Airflow
Determining the right airflow for effective cooling involves various scientific methods, though real-world scenarios may add complexities. A common approach is calculating the cubic footage of the area to be cooled, multiplied by 3 to get a CFM rating, representing air turnover three times per minute. Fan airflow is measured in CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute).
In real-world applications with heat-generating components, you might need to replace the air 4 to 6 times per minute. We simplify this into three categories:
- Circulation: Ideal for noise-sensitive environments, suitable for areas with some felt heat.
- Airflow: Medium-powered fans to handle noticeable heat, not too hot to touch but in the 90-degree F range.
- Cooling: Requires higher-powered fans and multiple fan systems to address thermal overload with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees.
All Procool systems have CFM ratings to guide the selection based on airflow. Another crucial rating is static pressure, indicating the power of airflow. Higher pressure fans are preferable in larger cabinets.
Noise
Fan noise is measured in decibels dBA, with higher ratings indicating more noise. Procool pioneered quiet cooling systems that match the airflow of noisier alternatives.
All Procool cabinet systems employ this technology to provide adequate airflow without noise. Procool rackmount fan systems range in noise levels depending on the airflow.
Fan noise is relative to the airflow, because to provide more airflow the fan blade must spin faster. The faster it spins, the more noise will be generated. Procool's SX and SXT series fans are specially designed for increased airflow with less noise, while other models like TV and T series offer higher power with increased noise levels.
Here's a breakdown of typical noise levels:
- 0 dBA: Silence (hearing threshold)
- 10 dBA: A pin dropping
- 20 dBA: Mosquito
- 30 dBA: Whisper
- 40 dBA: Computer
- 50 dBA: A normal room
- 60 dBA: Normal conversation
- 70 dBA: Laughter
- 75 dBA: Vacuum cleaner
- 80 dBA: Alarm clock
- 90 dBA: Lawn mower
