Efficient speed control for DC fans

Apr 22, 2025
Setup of ESC control device

Speed regulation for DC electric fans

Coolers are usually sized using the most extreme conditions that the customer can expect during operation (E.g. maximum cooling power, highest ambient temperature, etc). Often such conditions are reached only for limited periods, so the cooler is oversized for the ” usual ” working conditions.
Normally, an ON/OFF thermal switch is used for fan control. This kind of solution does not perform a good control of fluid temperature and stress fan motor with multiple switching cycles, causing a reduction of brush life. A dynamic control of the temperature can improve the performance and efficiency of the complete system, adapting fan behaviour to working condition.

Working Principle

The ESC is able to control the voltage supplied to the electric fan, from O V to the maximum voltage (12V or 24V depending on the fan), varying speed and cooler performance. The controller works linear, depending on temperature, in a defined range (standard is 40°C to 60°C). lf fluid temperature is lower than minimum threshold fan will stay powered off; if aver than maximum, speed will be the nominal one.

author avatar
Elmar Pohl Sales Manager