International. Ziehl-Abegg reported that it is the first company globally to certify a product range (ZAbluefin) for the new Fan Power Index (FEI). In 2018, the International Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA) introduced the FEI to save energy, reduce operating costs and accelerate decarbonisation.
FEI is an energy efficiency metric for fans that includes motors and units. The calculation method for the new metric is defined in THE ANSI/AMCA 208 standard, Calculation of the Fan Energy Index. This metric provides a standardized and consistent basis for comparing fan power performance across fan types and sizes at a given fan service point. The FEI also considers the effects of motors and units, when included in fan classification tests.
The EIF has several uses. Fan specifiers can use it to understand and communicate fan efficiency design intent, while legislative and regulatory bodies can use it to define fan energy efficiency requirements. The rule has been drafted to support amateur industries' entry into energy and building codes and standards, and to support utility rebate programs.
FEI is a replacement for fan efficiency grade (FEG), a metric currently referenced in model energy codes and standards, such as ANSI/ASHRAE/IES 90.1, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings; ANSI / ASHRAE / USGBC / IEC 189.1, Standard for the design of high-performance green buildings, except low-rise residential buildings; and the International Code of Conservation of Energy and in federal regulations in several Asian countries. The FEI will replace the FEG in energy codes, standards and regulations as it is adopted through proposals for change as part of routine review cycles.
Twenty-seven ZAbluefin centrifugal fans with GR modules in various combinations with different motors are certified, just like the previous Cpro and C product range. Ziehl-Abegg operates the world's largest test and measurement chamber in Künzelsau since 2008. Ziehl-Abegg believes that high-precision measuring instruments and regular training for employees, combined with routine inspections by external organizations such as AMCA and TÜV, are essential to continue to inspire total customer confidence in their products.
