Drum Fans

About Drum Fans

Drum fans are powerful air circulation solutions designed for demanding industrial, commercial and construction environments. Characterised by their distinctive cylindrical barrel design and robust metal construction, these high-velocity fans deliver substantial airflow to cool workspaces, accelerate drying times, improve ventilation and maintain comfortable working conditions in challenging settings. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional drum fans from leading manufacturers Sealey and Draper, available in sizes ranging from compact 16-inch models to substantial 30-inch industrial units capable of moving thousands of cubic metres of air per hour.

Available in 240v mains-powered versions for workshops and fixed locations, 110v models for construction site compliance, and innovative cordless battery-powered options, these fans cater to diverse professional requirements. Many models feature oscillation functions for wider air distribution, variable speed settings, and tilt adjustment for precise airflow direction, making them indispensable equipment for tradespeople and facilities professionals requiring reliable, heavy-duty air movement solutions.

Applications

Drum fans serve numerous trades and industries requiring powerful ventilation and air circulation:

• Construction and Building: Drying plaster, concrete and newly applied finishes; general site ventilation and worker cooling
• Plastering and Rendering: Accelerating drying times between coats and before decoration work
• Painting and Decorating: Dispersing fumes, speeding paint drying and improving workspace ventilation
• Flood Restoration: Water damage drying in conjunction with dehumidifiers
• Warehousing and Logistics: Maintaining comfortable temperatures in large storage facilities
• Manufacturing: Cooling production areas and providing worker comfort in hot environments
• Agriculture: Ventilating barns, drying crops and cooling livestock housing
• Automotive Workshops: Ventilating spray booths and dispersing bodywork fumes
• Events and Marquees: Providing ventilation and cooling for temporary structures

Choosing The Right Drum Fans

Fan Size and Airflow: Select diameter based on application—16-18 inch models suit smaller workshops and targeted drying tasks, whilst 24-30 inch units provide the substantial airflow required for warehouses, large construction projects and industrial spaces. Check cubic metres per hour (m³/h) ratings to ensure adequate capacity.

Power Supply: Choose 240v models for fixed workshops with mains electricity, 110v versions for construction sites complying with HSE recommendations, or cordless battery-powered fans for maximum flexibility without trailing cables.

Features and Controls: Oscillating models distribute airflow across wider areas for general cooling, whilst fixed-direction fans concentrate power for targeted drying. Variable speed settings provide flexibility for different applications, and tilt adjustment enables precise airflow direction for ceiling work or floor drying.

Build Quality: MyToolShed.co.uk stocks robust metal-construction drum fans from Sealey and Draper, engineered to withstand site conditions, regular transportation and intensive commercial use. Look for stable bases, protective grilles and convenient carry handles.

Safety Information

Always position drum fans on stable, level ground to prevent tipping during operation. Keep equipment well clear of water and wet surfaces unless specifically rated for moisture exposure. Inspect protective grilles before use and never operate fans with damaged or removed guards—rotating blades present serious injury risks. On construction sites, use 110v models as recommended by HSE guidance to reduce electric shock severity. Ensure adequate ventilation when dispersing fumes or airborne contaminants, and never direct fans towards flammable materials or open flames. Allow cooling time before moving fans after extended operation, as motors and housings become extremely hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between drum fans and pedestal fans?

Drum fans feature cylindrical barrel designs with horizontal airflow from floor-standing positions, offering greater stability and typically higher airflow volumes suited to industrial applications. Pedestal fans have elevated circular heads on adjustable poles, better for directing airflow at different heights but generally less powerful and stable for heavy-duty commercial use.

How do I calculate what size drum fan I need?

For general ventilation, calculate room volume (length × width × height in metres) and select fans providing 10-15 air changes per hour. For targeted drying tasks, positioning matters more than room size—a smaller fan positioned close to wet surfaces often proves more effective than a distant larger unit. Commercial and industrial spaces typically require 24-30 inch models, whilst 16-18 inch fans suit smaller workshops.

Can I use cordless drum fans for professional applications?

Modern battery-powered drum fans available at MyToolShed.co.uk offer impressive performance suitable for many professional applications, with the advantage of eliminating trailing cables. They excel in situations requiring mobility or working without convenient power access, though large-scale ventilation or drying projects still favour mains-powered models for sustained high-output performance.