Ceiling
Content
TEST REPORT
14 brands of 1200 mm fans tested. None found efficient.
I
f buying a fan meant walking into a they should for the power they computerised and the readings directly store and asking for the first name consumed. entered into the computer that comes to your without any manual operamind, we would say it Brands Tested tion. The computer took the isn’t so simple. When We put 14 brands of 1200 mm ceiling fans through 22 tests. average of the readings and, 28 samples were put through the various tests. Among the you go to buy a fan, you brands tested, those within the voltage range of 220 - 240 V as per the IS, calculated the should question how were Almonard (Popular), Anchor (Cool & Comfort), Ashok air delivery at full speed. much air the fan gives, (Regular), Asian (Speedee), Cinni (Regular), Crompton the power it consumes (High Speed), Khaitan (Zolta), Orient (New Breeze), Ortem All the brands conformed to and how safe the fan is. (High-Tech), Remi (Hi-Speed), Shaan (Whisp-air) and Usha this test. However, Ashok The dread of it some time (Windsor). Among the 220 - 230 V were the brands Bajaj delivered the least amount of (Regal) and Polar (New Beta). coming down! air at 215.16 m3/minute. Ortem But you wouldn’t find answers to these questions at the time. Because none of the manufacturers answer them. Silence from the information on the package, silence in the ads. We found that the fans tested consumed more power than specified under the standard. Also, none of the brands tested was efficient. They did not give as much air as
Standards
We tested the brands against IS:3741979 with six amendments and IS:121551987. But the Quality Control Order or mandatory certification does not cover ceiling fans and regulators. Also, none of the brands was ISI marked nor did any of them carry the manufacturer’s licence number.
gave the maximum at 271.83 m3/ minute, followed by Anchor at 256 m3 / minute.
Power Used
(Input Wattage Consumption) The power consumed by each fan at full speed should not be more than 50 watts with an allowed tolerance of +10 per cent provided the service value is a minimum of 4 as per the IS.
The Air You Get
(Air Delivery) In a fan we primarily consider the amount of air delivered. We tested this as per the IS in an air delivery chamber. According to the IS, these fans should deliver a minimum of 200 cubic metres of air per minute. The entire test was
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At a time when all appliances are becoming more and more efficient in terms of power consumption, all the fans tested consumed power well over the IS limit. Polar consumed the maximum power at 86.24 watts. Bajaj consumed the least at 68.81 watts, followed by Orient at 70.01 watts.
Key Findings
• We tested 14 brands of 1200 mm ceiling fans. The brands tested
within the 220-240 voltage range were Almonard (Popular), Anchor (Cool & Comfort), Ashok (Regular), Asian (Speedee), Cinni (Regular), Crompton (High Speed), Khaitan (Zolta), Orient (New Breeze), Ortem (HighTech), Remi (Hi-Speed), Shaan (Whisp-air) and Usha (Windsor). We also tested Bajaj (Regal) and Polar (New Beta) in the 220-230 V range. brands against • We tested thewith six amendIS:374-1979 ments and IS:12155-1987. But the Quality Control Order or mandatory certification does not cover ceiling fans and regulators. Also, none of the brands was ISI marked nor did they carry the manufacturer’s licence number. to the • All the brands conformedAshok test for air delivery. But delivered the least amount of air at 215.16 m3/minute. Ortem gave the maximum at 271.83 m 3 / minute, followed by Anchor at 256 m3/minute.
casting inside, where the entire inner surface should have been smooth. This can create friction and the fan may not perform smoothly.
Remi and • In Ashok, Asian, not properly Shaan, stamping was
pressed. In the long run, this may give some noise. Rust was observed in Ashok and Shaan.
• Except Shaan and Ashok, all the brands provided adequate
insulation with the wires properly fixed. Lack of proper insulation can damage the wires. earthing • Fans do not haveBut Polar wires which are green. used a green wire for a non-earthing connection. It may lead to electrical shock when handled. the • None ofvalue.brands marked air delivery Almonard, Ashok,
Efficacy (Service Value)
The best fans give the maximum air delivery while consuming the least amount of power. This is the service value of the fan. According to the IS, the service value should not be less than 4. None of the brands conformed to this parameter. The service value ranged from 2.64 of Ashok to 3.35 of both Bajaj and Orient. This means, none of the brands was efficient. A higher service value indicates higher efficacy.
Bajaj, Orient, Ortem and Shaan did not mark the input wattage consumption. Ashok, Cinni, Remi and Shaan did not specify the voltage range and the size of the fan on the ceiling fan regulator. Almonard, Ashok, • Regulators of Cinni and Usha did Asian, Bajaj,
not conform to the test where the fan speed should reduce by at least 50 per cent of the full speed.
Service Value = minimum air delivery (m3/min) maximum power input (watts)
•
None of the brands consumed power within the limits set by the IS. Polar consumed the maximum power at 86.24 watts. Bajaj consumed the least at 68.81 watts, followed by Orient at 70.01watts. Service value (efficacy) is minimum air delivery divided by the maximum power input which should not be less than 4 as per the IS. The service value ranged from 2.64 of Ashok to 3.35 of both Bajaj and Orient. This means, none of the brands were efficient.
Usha were the highest• Cinni and Rs 1495. Ashok was priced at
•
• • • • • •
and Anchor did not • Almonard the test for tensile load conform to of the suspension system - the rod and clamp which hold the fan. Almonard’s screw broke, while Anchor’s clamp broke. Crompton provided an additional safety cable to hold the fan in case the clamp breaks.
Is the Fan Held Firmly
(Suspension System) The rod holding the fan and the clamp on top make up the suspension system of the fan. Although rare, the fan would be in danger of falling if the rod and the clamp are not strong enough. Among other tests, the suspension system of the fan should be able to withstand a tensile load of 1,000
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• Although conformed
all the brands to the test for construction, finishing was not good in some. Crompton was the best in construction. Also, its bearing housing had a collar.
• In Anchor and Usha, the cover was not properly finished. Also,
the finishing was very poor in case of Almonard, Ashok, Remi and Shaan , with tiny particles of
the lowest-priced at Rs 625. Crompton scored the highest with 86, followed by Orient with 79 and Ortem with 76. Khaitan came next with a score of 71. Although Crompton scored the highest, it was Khaitan which became the best buy since its price was far less than that of Crompton’s. Electronic regulators consume less power than the electric ones at the lower speeds. We tested step-type electronic regulators of Anchor, Galco, MK, North-West, Rider, Roma, Vinay and Wonder. Among the movable types, we tested, Anchor, Harisons and S.S.K. Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) shows by how much the power supply waves are distorted. A high distortion leads to faster ageing of the fan as well as equipment at the power company. Step type regulators are higher priced, but they come with very low THD. On the other hand, movable type regulators have a very high THD.
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KEY
1200 MM CEILING FANS & REGULATORS :
Brands Rank Overall Score MRP (in Rs.) Air Input Wattage Delivery Consumption (watts) (m3/min) Service Value
RESULTS
Parameters Marking
Internal Wiring Regulators Comments X X X Perfectly finished casting. Collar to protect bearing. Additional cable for safety. Least power consumption in 220-240 V, high in efficacy, good finish of casting. Highest air delivery, highest power consumption in 220-240V, good finish of casting.
Conformed X Did not conform NMT = Not More Than NLT = Not Less Than = Cubic meter m3
S A F E T Y
Suspension System
CONFORMING TO SAFETY PARAMETERS (220-240VOLTS) IS : 374-1979* IS : 12155-1987 CROMPTON (High speed) ORIENT (New Breeze) ORTEM (High Tech) 1 2 3 86 79 76 1280 1226 1275 NLT 200 252.70 235.18 271.83 NMT** 50 78.81 70.01 84.88 NLT*** 4 3.20 3.35 3.20
Best Buy
Best Buy is based on the overall score and price. In the 220-240V category, Crompton scored the highest. Although Khaitan had a comparatively lower score, it was the best buy since its price was far less than Crompton’s. In the 220-230V category, only Bajaj complied with all the safety parameters.
KHAITAN (Zolta) REMI (High speed) ASIAN (Speedee) CINNI (Regular) USHA (Windsor)
4 5 6 7 8
71 69 55 54 49
768 780 920 1495 1495
216.14 218.85 228.57 224.30 222.68
73.41 78.34 72.50 72.80 78.99
2.94 2.79 3.15 3.08 2.81
X X X X X X X X
Reasonably good performance score Poor finishing, bearing cover not provided, stamping not properly pressed. Stamping not properly pressed. Good finish of casting. Poor finishing.
NON-CONFORMING TO SAFETY PARAMETERS (220-240VOLTS) ANCHOR (Cool & Comfort) SHAAN (Whisp-air) ALMONARD (Popular) ASHOK (Regular) 78 68 51 46 1100 1080 850 625 256.00 216.21 226.19 215.16 77.30 79.25 77.24 81.48 3.31 2.72 2.92 2.64 X X X X X X X X X X Clamp broke when rod tested, poor finishing. Poor finishing, no bearing cover, rust found, stamping not properly pressed.
BEST BUY
Rating and Ranking
NONFORMING TO SAFETY PARAMETERS (220-230VOLTS) BAJAJ (Regal) 59 1485 231.04 68.81 3.35 X X
NON-CONFORMING TO SAFETY PARAMETERS (220-230VOLTS) POLAR (New Beta) 66 1258 228.76 86.24 2.65 X X
None of the brands conformed to all the parameters. In fact, all failed in the Least air delivery, low efficacy, poor finishing, no bearing cover, rust found, stamping not properly pressed important parameters of power consumption and service value. So we rated and ranked the brands that Good finish of casting, high efficacy conformed to the safety parameters.
Good finish of casting, highest in power consumption, green wire used for nonearthing connection.
Poor finishing, no bearing cover, screw broke when rod was tested.
* with 6 amendments ** 50 W with an allowed tolerance of +10 per cent provided the service value is a minimum of 4 as per the IS. *** m3/minute/watt Bajaj and Polar have marked an input voltage range of 220-230 V. They have been tested at 225 V. The others were marked 220-240 V. They were tested at 230 V. In the case of fan speed, 3 brands conformed to the requirements. The others did not give the speed of the fan, so no comparison could be made of the actual versus labelled speed.
INSIGHT-The Consumer Magazine JAN-FEB 2004
The brands were also tested for safety for protection against electric shock, starting of motor operated appliances, temperature rise, leakage current, high voltage, insulation resistance, moisture resistance of regulator, mechanical endurance, abnormal test, stability and mechanical hazards, mechanical strength, components, terminal for external conductors, screws and connections, creepage distance and clearances, resistance to heat, fire and tracking and resistance to rusting. All brands conformed to these parameters.
Service value (efficacy) was given a weightage of 70 per cent. Regulators sold with the fan were given 20 per cent and 10 per cent to brands that gave extra safety devices. Crompton scored the highest with 86, followed by Orient with 79 and Ortem with 76. Khaitan came next with a score of 71.
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kilogram force (kgf). That is, when the rod and the clamp are pulled with this force, they should not break. Almonard and Anchor did not conform to this test. In the case of Almonard the screw broke. And for Anchor, the clamp broke. Crompton provided an additional safety cable to hold the fan in case the clamp breaks. This provides for extra safety, stopping the fan from falling down until the clamp is fixed again.
would also stop dust and other particles from entering the bearing, ensuring a longer life to it. None of the other brands provided such a collar. The finishing of Bajaj, Cinni, Orient, Ortem, Khaitan and Polar also was good.
Wiring
The internal wiring should be smooth and well-protected with insulation so that the wires do not come in contact with any rough edges of the fan that could damage them. This is particularly important since the wires inside the cover have to run through a hole in the rod. Any rough edge of the hole can damage a wire that is not properly insulated. Except Shaan and Ashok, all the brands provided adequate insulation with the wires properly fixed. These two brands did not provide insulation to the wires at the point the wires pass through any rough edge of the the hole. The wires may get damaged since they are not adequately protected. Also, a green wire should be used only for earthing connection. Polar did not follow this rule. Normally, fans do not have earthing wires. In case of a repair,
Crompton provided an additional safety cable to hold the fan in case the clamp breaks.
But in Anchor and Usha, the cover was not properly finished. In the long run and also during servicing, tiny parts of casting, foreign material or paint flakes may come in contact with the bearing and may affect the performance of the fan. The finishing was very poor in the case of Almonard, Ashok, Remi and Shaan. We observed tiny particles of casting inside, where the entire inner surface
Is the Fan Made Well?
(Construction) The IS prescribes the construction test to check whether the fan is made well, proper insulation has been provided, live parts are accessible, etc. Performing these tests involves opening the cover of the fan and checking it visually. All the brands conformed to this test.
Areas of Action
Industry asks for more power. The Indian Fan Manufacturers’ Association has asked the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to increase the maximum power input limit from 50W to 70 W for 1200 mm ceiling fans. We believe that over a period of time, fans should become more energy efficient and deliver more for less power. In fact, in all major appliances, the BIS has reduced the maximum power input limit. So CERC has represented to the BIS, opposing industry’s plea for an increase in the input wattage since there is no justification for it and has asked for an increase in air delivery.
CERC Suggestions Test Chamber . We have suggested that the material used to fabricate the test chamber should be plywood. The BIS has accepted our suggestion. Electronic Regulators are used to save power. We have also suggested to the BIS that the total harmonic distortion of the regulators should be defined in the standard. This is already being done for items like electronic ballasts. It would give an idea of advantages like lower power consumption and disadvantages like overheating of the fan when using this regulator.
However, once we opened the cover, we realised that checking just for the parameters prescribed by the IS was not enough. The finishing and protection to the bearings were important too. You would not be able to check these things, since you never get to open its cover. We found large differences among the brands. We found Crompton the best in construction. The casting of its cover was perfectly finished. It was smooth with no rough surface. The bearing housing had a collar to stop grease from coming out. The collar
should have been smooth. In the long run and during servicing, the metal particles may get deposited on the bearing and between the rotor and stator of the fan which are inside the cover. This can create friction and the fan may not perform smoothly. In Almonard, Ashok, Remi and Shaan, bearing cover was not provided. In Ashok, Asian, Remi and Shaan, stamping was not properly pressed. In the long run, this may give some noise. Rust was observed in Ashok and Shaan.
if the electrician or any one handles the wire assuming that it is an earthing wire, an electric shock may result.
Marking
The big question is how one compares the brands without resorting to testing. We look for the marking - what the manufacturer has printed on the label. None of the brands marked the air delivery value on the packing. According to the IS, apart from the readings of air delivery, information like rated voltage, input in watts, etc., should be marked. Almonard, Ashok, Bajaj,
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R e g u l a t o r s
Fans come with regulators. But if you don’t want the one supplied, you need not take it. You could get an equivalent discount. Now you can choose another regulator to your liking. But first, it’s important to know the difference between an electric and an electronic regulator.
Electric regulators work by reducing
the voltage supply to the motor inside the fan when you want to reduce the fan speed. In most places, the domestic supply of electric power is of 230 volts. If you want the fan to run at full speed, the regulator supplies the entire 230 volts. But when you reduce the speed, the voltage supply to the fan is reduced through a device called the resistor. The resistor does this by absorbing some of the voltage. So the resistor heats up, heating the regulator itself. Normally, regulators are flushmounted by the electrical contractor. So the internal heat will damage the regulator in the long run. Plus, electric regulators are not energy-efficient and hence uneconomical and not environment friendly as they waste electric energy due to the use of resistors.
Electronic regulators, on the other hand, are smaller. These regulators reduce or increase the fan speed by controlling the wave form of the power supply. They are energy-efficient and can save energy when the fan is running at the lower speeds of 1 and 2.
When we tested an electric and an electronic regulator of the same company, we found that the electric regulator consumed 40 W at speed-1, while the electronic one consumed just about 15 W. But electronic regulators come with just 3 speeds unlike the 5 speeds of electric ones. At full speed, both consume the same amount of power. If price is not a concern, take an electronic regulator. But if price is a concern — electric regulators cost as little as Rs. 40 — go for an electric one.
Power Consumption of Regulators Speed Input Wattage Consumption Electric Electronic 1 40 W 15.4 W 2 51 W 34.2 W 3 61 W 76 W 4 68 W NA 5 76 W NA
The above figures are at 230 volts. The electric regulator consumed 40 W at speed postion no.1 while the electronic regulator consumed only 15.4 W at the same position. So the power saving is about 25W in case of an electronic regulator. Let us suppose that the fan was used for about 10 hours at speed position.1. If the number of fans used is 4 in the house, the daily power saving is as follows: 25 x 10 x 4 = 1kwh = 1 unit of electricity. 1000
NA = Not applicable
Electronic Regulators
Electronic regulators come in two
varieties - step type and movable type. Step regulators increase or decrease the fan speed in steps. In the movable ones, the regulator turns smoothly from one speed to another. Among the step type regulators, we tested Anchor, Galco, MK, North-West, Rider, Roma, Vinay and Wonder . Among the movable type, we tested, Anchor, Harisons and S.S.K.
Anchor and Harisons claim to save power up to 40 per cent. We assume that this is in comparison with electric regulators. A 40 per cent saving in electricity can only be at speed-1. At speed-2, the saving is likely to be just 30 per cent. At full speed, there would be no saving at all.
Brand Step Type Wonder Vinay Galco MK Anchor Rider North-West Roma Movable Type Anchor Harisons SSK Price (Rs.) 155 214 175 311 125 170 359 253 100 87 170 THD* (%) 2.01 2.26 2.36 2.46 2.57 3.10 4.53 6.52 74.09 82.96 89.50
How Good Were The Regulators?
If the regulators are incapable of reducing the fan speed, the purpose of the regulator is lost. Regulators should be able to reduce the fan speed by at least 50 per cent of the full speed. Almonard, Ashok, Asian, Bajaj, Cinni and Usha did not conform. Only Anchor, Crompton, Khaitan, Orient, Ortem, Polar, Remi and Shaan conformed to this parameter. So don’t be surprised if some fans do not slow down as much as they should. Also, fans should run on all the running positions of the regulators. All brands conformed to this test as per the IS.
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
shows us how much the power supply waves are distorted. A high distortion causes the fan motor to heat up. It leads to faster ageing of the fan and equipment at the power company.
Step type regulators are higher
priced, but they come with very little total harmonic distortion. On the other hand, the movable type regulators have a very high distortion which may cause overheating of the fan motor. Electronic regulators of the movable type when operating at lower speeds may give a humming sound because filter circuits are not normally provided.
* THD - Total Harmonic Distortion (the lower the better)
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A fan’s a fan son
No Dad there’s auto speed retention, maxitorque efficiency, wide angle blades...
current, high voltage, insulation resistance, moisture resistance of the regulator, mechanical endurance, abnormal test, stability and mechanical hazards, mechanical strength, components, terminal for external conductors, screws and connections, creepage distance and clearances, resistance to heat, fire and tracking and resistance to rusting. All brands conformed to these parameters. In the case of fan speed, 3 brands conformed to the requirements. The speed was tested by running the fan at full speed. The others did not give the speed of the fan, so no comparison could be made of the actual versus the labelled speed. In any case, what is relevant when you go to buy a fan is the air delivery. It depends on fan speed as well as on fan design.
Warranties and Guarantees
A warranty describes the product - its quality, performance, standard, etc. Breach of a warranty allows you to recover damages due to the breach and consequent loss suffered. But a warranty is not enough to have the sale itself set aside. A guarantee on the other hand, goes to the root of the contract for sale of goods. Breach of a guarantee, entitles you to have the whole sale set aside. You may also get damages if you can successfully prove it. Check whether the company offers a warranty or guarantee and its duration before you buy the fan.
Brand 220-240 V
Almonard Anchor Ashok Asian Cinni Crompton Khaitan Orient Ortem Remi Shaan Usha
Protection
2-year guarantee 2-year warranty 2-year guarantee 2-year warranty 2-year guarantee 2-year warranty 1-year guarantee 2-year guarantee 2-year guarantee 2-year guarantee 2.5-year guarantee 2-year guarantee 2-year guarantee 7-year guarantee
facturers of Crompton, said that, they also supply IS: 374 complying fans to government and institutions while the other fans are as per their specifications with high air delivery and meet all safety requirements of IS: 302. The observations on air delivery and service value are true as regards the High Speed fan. Khaitan Electricals Ltd., manufacturers of Khaitan, said that, manufacturers who make fans conforming to the IS for supplies against RateContract, make their design so that the fan just meets the air delivery requirement as per IS within the stipulated maximum watt at the rated voltage of 230V, whereas at reduced voltage like 200 / 190 V commonly prevalent in most of the consumers’ premises, air delivery will get substantially reduced. This is to the utter dissatisfaction of users. The present stipulation of air delivery value in the IS is not adequate to satisfy contime, fans should sumer needs.
220 - 230 V
Bajaj Polar
Orient, Ortem and Shaan did not mark the input wattage consumption. Ashok, Cinni, Remi and Shaan did not specify the voltage range and the size of the fan on the ceiling fan regulator.
Ashok at Rs 625. When you next go to buy a fan, be sure to bargain and check the price in a few shops. You may be able to get a discount.
Other Parameters
The brands were also tested for safety for protection against electric shock, the starting of motor operated appliances, temperature rise, leakage
Manufacturers’ Correspondence
As a policy, we convey the test results to all the manufacturers, irrespective of whether their brands have passed
or failed. The results are posted to their registered offices by Registered A.D./ Courier. All manufacturers receive the test results of their own product only and are given two weeks from the date of receipt to respond.
Ashok and Shaan did not carry the full address. So, we could not send the results. Also, the results sent to Asian and Ortem were returned. Further, manufacturers of Almonard, Anchor, Cinni and Remi did not respond at the time of going to press. Manufacturers’ Addresses
Almonard Almonard Ltd., New Petit Mansion, 2nd Floor, 95, Sleater Road, Grant Road (W) Mumbai 400 007 Anchor Anchor Electronics & Electricals Pvt. Ltd. Taiwad Road, Devka, Daman 396 210 Ashok Ashok Group of Industries, Mumbai Asian Fans & Applicances Co. Pvt. Ltd. 5, Rashmoni Sadan, 18th Road, Chembur Mumbai 400 071 Bajaj Bajaj Electricals Ltd. 45/47 Veer Nariman Road, Mumbai 400 023 Cinni National Winder, Pishachmochan Marg Varanasi - 221010, UP Crompton Crompton Greaves, 6th Floor, C. G. House, Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai - 30 Khaitan Khaitan Electricals Ltd., A-13 Co. Op. Indl. Estate, Balanagar, Hyderabad 500 037 Orient 11, Indl. Est., Sector 6, Faridabad 121 006 Ortem Metro Appliances Ltd., P.B. No. 44, Noida Complex, Noida 201 30, U.P. Polar Polar Industries Ltd., A-2, Sector 5, Noida 201 301, Gautambuddh Nagar, U. P. Remi Remi Sales & Eng. Ltd., 14 Shah Ind. Est., Veera Desai Rd., Andheri (W), Mumbai - 58 Shaan Prashant Associates Jai Ambe Krupa, Secunderabad Usha The Jay Eng. Works Ltd., 19, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, New Delhi 110 001
For queries write to us at [email protected].
Price
Cinni and Usha were the highest priced at Rs 1495. The least priced brand was
C L A I M S
Brand
Bajaj
V S .
F A C T S
Fact
Bajaj ranked 5th in air delivery. Its power consumption was over the prescribed limit. So it was not energy efficient. Tests were done strictly according to standards.
No significant difference observed in the motor compared to other brands. PSPO equation has been derived by Orient and is not specified in the IS. Power consumption is part of the equation. But Orient’s power consumption and service value did not meet the IS limits showing that the fan was not efficient.
Claim
High air delivery Energy efficient
Company Response
Supply voltage, frequency, position of anemometer and fan, etc. affect air delivery. Nil PSPO accounts for air spread in addition to service value. Conforming to BIS’ service value does not mean a good fan from customers’ performance expectations. Motor designed to accommodate normal fluctuation in voltage and frequency. Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil
Quick start high torque motor
Orient
Ultimate air power PSPO (Peak Speed Performance Output)
Bajaj Electricals Ltd., manufacturers of Bajaj, said that, supply Over a period of voltage and fre- become more energy efficient and quency, voltage deliver more for less power. Orient Fans, drop, position manufacturers of Orient, said that, of anemometer and fan and other they follow their company standards specified parameters affect the air which are made to satisfy the delivery. They asked for these details. customers’ performance requirement Insight: We tested the fans strictly of air delivery and the requisite air according to IS:374-1979 with 6 velocity. These cannot be achieved amendments and IS:12155-1987. The simultaneously meeting BIS service instruments used are highly accurate value levels. and sensitive. Details were sent. Insight: We asked for the tolerance of voltage and frequency and whether Crompton Greaves Ltd., manu- it affects r.p.m. and air delivery. Buying The Right Fan Polar Industries Ltd., manufacturers of Polar, said that they would revert to us once their technical study and examination of the issues raised in our letter were carried out.
Auto speed retention
Normal fluctuation in voltage and frequency not mentioned. Low voltage not specified. No explanation as to how wider blades correlate with larger air delivery. Low voltage not specified. Ranked 5th. Poor finishing. Ranked 8th.
Ortem
Better performance even at low voltage Wider blades, giving larger air displacement
Remi
Satisfactory performance at low voltage Reliability Easy to service Sturdy construction
The size of the fan should depend on the room size. Following are our recommendations for fan size. They are not specified in the IS: Room Size Fan Size (feet) (mm) For small shops, cabins, low ceilings 600 8x 8 900 8 x 10 to 9 x 11 to 10 x 10 1050 10 x 13 to 12 x 12 1200 13 x 16 to 15 x 15 1400 The fan should ideally be fixed 8 feet from the ground. To get the maximum air the fan can give, don’t sit right beneath the fan.
Usha
Undisputed leader in fans
The Jay Engineering Works Ltd., manufacturers of Usha, said that, the tested model is manufactured against buyer’s specifications and not as per IS, nor is it ISI marked. Hence, it cannot be compared with IS. They have a different range of fans that are ISI marked which will meet all the requirements as per IS:374-1979 with 6 amendments.
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INSIGHT-The Consumer Magazine JAN-FEB 2004 13
14 brands of 1200 mm fans tested. None found efficient.
I
f buying a fan meant walking into a they should for the power they computerised and the readings directly store and asking for the first name consumed. entered into the computer that comes to your without any manual operamind, we would say it Brands Tested tion. The computer took the isn’t so simple. When We put 14 brands of 1200 mm ceiling fans through 22 tests. average of the readings and, 28 samples were put through the various tests. Among the you go to buy a fan, you brands tested, those within the voltage range of 220 - 240 V as per the IS, calculated the should question how were Almonard (Popular), Anchor (Cool & Comfort), Ashok air delivery at full speed. much air the fan gives, (Regular), Asian (Speedee), Cinni (Regular), Crompton the power it consumes (High Speed), Khaitan (Zolta), Orient (New Breeze), Ortem All the brands conformed to and how safe the fan is. (High-Tech), Remi (Hi-Speed), Shaan (Whisp-air) and Usha this test. However, Ashok The dread of it some time (Windsor). Among the 220 - 230 V were the brands Bajaj delivered the least amount of (Regal) and Polar (New Beta). coming down! air at 215.16 m3/minute. Ortem But you wouldn’t find answers to these questions at the time. Because none of the manufacturers answer them. Silence from the information on the package, silence in the ads. We found that the fans tested consumed more power than specified under the standard. Also, none of the brands tested was efficient. They did not give as much air as
Standards
We tested the brands against IS:3741979 with six amendments and IS:121551987. But the Quality Control Order or mandatory certification does not cover ceiling fans and regulators. Also, none of the brands was ISI marked nor did any of them carry the manufacturer’s licence number.
gave the maximum at 271.83 m3/ minute, followed by Anchor at 256 m3 / minute.
Power Used
(Input Wattage Consumption) The power consumed by each fan at full speed should not be more than 50 watts with an allowed tolerance of +10 per cent provided the service value is a minimum of 4 as per the IS.
The Air You Get
(Air Delivery) In a fan we primarily consider the amount of air delivered. We tested this as per the IS in an air delivery chamber. According to the IS, these fans should deliver a minimum of 200 cubic metres of air per minute. The entire test was
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At a time when all appliances are becoming more and more efficient in terms of power consumption, all the fans tested consumed power well over the IS limit. Polar consumed the maximum power at 86.24 watts. Bajaj consumed the least at 68.81 watts, followed by Orient at 70.01 watts.
Key Findings
• We tested 14 brands of 1200 mm ceiling fans. The brands tested
within the 220-240 voltage range were Almonard (Popular), Anchor (Cool & Comfort), Ashok (Regular), Asian (Speedee), Cinni (Regular), Crompton (High Speed), Khaitan (Zolta), Orient (New Breeze), Ortem (HighTech), Remi (Hi-Speed), Shaan (Whisp-air) and Usha (Windsor). We also tested Bajaj (Regal) and Polar (New Beta) in the 220-230 V range. brands against • We tested thewith six amendIS:374-1979 ments and IS:12155-1987. But the Quality Control Order or mandatory certification does not cover ceiling fans and regulators. Also, none of the brands was ISI marked nor did they carry the manufacturer’s licence number. to the • All the brands conformedAshok test for air delivery. But delivered the least amount of air at 215.16 m3/minute. Ortem gave the maximum at 271.83 m 3 / minute, followed by Anchor at 256 m3/minute.
casting inside, where the entire inner surface should have been smooth. This can create friction and the fan may not perform smoothly.
Remi and • In Ashok, Asian, not properly Shaan, stamping was
pressed. In the long run, this may give some noise. Rust was observed in Ashok and Shaan.
• Except Shaan and Ashok, all the brands provided adequate
insulation with the wires properly fixed. Lack of proper insulation can damage the wires. earthing • Fans do not haveBut Polar wires which are green. used a green wire for a non-earthing connection. It may lead to electrical shock when handled. the • None ofvalue.brands marked air delivery Almonard, Ashok,
Efficacy (Service Value)
The best fans give the maximum air delivery while consuming the least amount of power. This is the service value of the fan. According to the IS, the service value should not be less than 4. None of the brands conformed to this parameter. The service value ranged from 2.64 of Ashok to 3.35 of both Bajaj and Orient. This means, none of the brands was efficient. A higher service value indicates higher efficacy.
Bajaj, Orient, Ortem and Shaan did not mark the input wattage consumption. Ashok, Cinni, Remi and Shaan did not specify the voltage range and the size of the fan on the ceiling fan regulator. Almonard, Ashok, • Regulators of Cinni and Usha did Asian, Bajaj,
not conform to the test where the fan speed should reduce by at least 50 per cent of the full speed.
Service Value = minimum air delivery (m3/min) maximum power input (watts)
•
None of the brands consumed power within the limits set by the IS. Polar consumed the maximum power at 86.24 watts. Bajaj consumed the least at 68.81 watts, followed by Orient at 70.01watts. Service value (efficacy) is minimum air delivery divided by the maximum power input which should not be less than 4 as per the IS. The service value ranged from 2.64 of Ashok to 3.35 of both Bajaj and Orient. This means, none of the brands were efficient.
Usha were the highest• Cinni and Rs 1495. Ashok was priced at
•
• • • • • •
and Anchor did not • Almonard the test for tensile load conform to of the suspension system - the rod and clamp which hold the fan. Almonard’s screw broke, while Anchor’s clamp broke. Crompton provided an additional safety cable to hold the fan in case the clamp breaks.
Is the Fan Held Firmly
(Suspension System) The rod holding the fan and the clamp on top make up the suspension system of the fan. Although rare, the fan would be in danger of falling if the rod and the clamp are not strong enough. Among other tests, the suspension system of the fan should be able to withstand a tensile load of 1,000
Continued on page10
• Although conformed
all the brands to the test for construction, finishing was not good in some. Crompton was the best in construction. Also, its bearing housing had a collar.
• In Anchor and Usha, the cover was not properly finished. Also,
the finishing was very poor in case of Almonard, Ashok, Remi and Shaan , with tiny particles of
the lowest-priced at Rs 625. Crompton scored the highest with 86, followed by Orient with 79 and Ortem with 76. Khaitan came next with a score of 71. Although Crompton scored the highest, it was Khaitan which became the best buy since its price was far less than that of Crompton’s. Electronic regulators consume less power than the electric ones at the lower speeds. We tested step-type electronic regulators of Anchor, Galco, MK, North-West, Rider, Roma, Vinay and Wonder. Among the movable types, we tested, Anchor, Harisons and S.S.K. Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) shows by how much the power supply waves are distorted. A high distortion leads to faster ageing of the fan as well as equipment at the power company. Step type regulators are higher priced, but they come with very low THD. On the other hand, movable type regulators have a very high THD.
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INSIGHT-The Consumer Magazine JAN-FEB 2004
BLACK COLOUR 7
KEY
1200 MM CEILING FANS & REGULATORS :
Brands Rank Overall Score MRP (in Rs.) Air Input Wattage Delivery Consumption (watts) (m3/min) Service Value
RESULTS
Parameters Marking
Internal Wiring Regulators Comments X X X Perfectly finished casting. Collar to protect bearing. Additional cable for safety. Least power consumption in 220-240 V, high in efficacy, good finish of casting. Highest air delivery, highest power consumption in 220-240V, good finish of casting.
Conformed X Did not conform NMT = Not More Than NLT = Not Less Than = Cubic meter m3
S A F E T Y
Suspension System
CONFORMING TO SAFETY PARAMETERS (220-240VOLTS) IS : 374-1979* IS : 12155-1987 CROMPTON (High speed) ORIENT (New Breeze) ORTEM (High Tech) 1 2 3 86 79 76 1280 1226 1275 NLT 200 252.70 235.18 271.83 NMT** 50 78.81 70.01 84.88 NLT*** 4 3.20 3.35 3.20
Best Buy
Best Buy is based on the overall score and price. In the 220-240V category, Crompton scored the highest. Although Khaitan had a comparatively lower score, it was the best buy since its price was far less than Crompton’s. In the 220-230V category, only Bajaj complied with all the safety parameters.
KHAITAN (Zolta) REMI (High speed) ASIAN (Speedee) CINNI (Regular) USHA (Windsor)
4 5 6 7 8
71 69 55 54 49
768 780 920 1495 1495
216.14 218.85 228.57 224.30 222.68
73.41 78.34 72.50 72.80 78.99
2.94 2.79 3.15 3.08 2.81
X X X X X X X X
Reasonably good performance score Poor finishing, bearing cover not provided, stamping not properly pressed. Stamping not properly pressed. Good finish of casting. Poor finishing.
NON-CONFORMING TO SAFETY PARAMETERS (220-240VOLTS) ANCHOR (Cool & Comfort) SHAAN (Whisp-air) ALMONARD (Popular) ASHOK (Regular) 78 68 51 46 1100 1080 850 625 256.00 216.21 226.19 215.16 77.30 79.25 77.24 81.48 3.31 2.72 2.92 2.64 X X X X X X X X X X Clamp broke when rod tested, poor finishing. Poor finishing, no bearing cover, rust found, stamping not properly pressed.
BEST BUY
Rating and Ranking
NONFORMING TO SAFETY PARAMETERS (220-230VOLTS) BAJAJ (Regal) 59 1485 231.04 68.81 3.35 X X
NON-CONFORMING TO SAFETY PARAMETERS (220-230VOLTS) POLAR (New Beta) 66 1258 228.76 86.24 2.65 X X
None of the brands conformed to all the parameters. In fact, all failed in the Least air delivery, low efficacy, poor finishing, no bearing cover, rust found, stamping not properly pressed important parameters of power consumption and service value. So we rated and ranked the brands that Good finish of casting, high efficacy conformed to the safety parameters.
Good finish of casting, highest in power consumption, green wire used for nonearthing connection.
Poor finishing, no bearing cover, screw broke when rod was tested.
* with 6 amendments ** 50 W with an allowed tolerance of +10 per cent provided the service value is a minimum of 4 as per the IS. *** m3/minute/watt Bajaj and Polar have marked an input voltage range of 220-230 V. They have been tested at 225 V. The others were marked 220-240 V. They were tested at 230 V. In the case of fan speed, 3 brands conformed to the requirements. The others did not give the speed of the fan, so no comparison could be made of the actual versus labelled speed.
INSIGHT-The Consumer Magazine JAN-FEB 2004
The brands were also tested for safety for protection against electric shock, starting of motor operated appliances, temperature rise, leakage current, high voltage, insulation resistance, moisture resistance of regulator, mechanical endurance, abnormal test, stability and mechanical hazards, mechanical strength, components, terminal for external conductors, screws and connections, creepage distance and clearances, resistance to heat, fire and tracking and resistance to rusting. All brands conformed to these parameters.
Service value (efficacy) was given a weightage of 70 per cent. Regulators sold with the fan were given 20 per cent and 10 per cent to brands that gave extra safety devices. Crompton scored the highest with 86, followed by Orient with 79 and Ortem with 76. Khaitan came next with a score of 71.
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Continued from page7
kilogram force (kgf). That is, when the rod and the clamp are pulled with this force, they should not break. Almonard and Anchor did not conform to this test. In the case of Almonard the screw broke. And for Anchor, the clamp broke. Crompton provided an additional safety cable to hold the fan in case the clamp breaks. This provides for extra safety, stopping the fan from falling down until the clamp is fixed again.
would also stop dust and other particles from entering the bearing, ensuring a longer life to it. None of the other brands provided such a collar. The finishing of Bajaj, Cinni, Orient, Ortem, Khaitan and Polar also was good.
Wiring
The internal wiring should be smooth and well-protected with insulation so that the wires do not come in contact with any rough edges of the fan that could damage them. This is particularly important since the wires inside the cover have to run through a hole in the rod. Any rough edge of the hole can damage a wire that is not properly insulated. Except Shaan and Ashok, all the brands provided adequate insulation with the wires properly fixed. These two brands did not provide insulation to the wires at the point the wires pass through any rough edge of the the hole. The wires may get damaged since they are not adequately protected. Also, a green wire should be used only for earthing connection. Polar did not follow this rule. Normally, fans do not have earthing wires. In case of a repair,
Crompton provided an additional safety cable to hold the fan in case the clamp breaks.
But in Anchor and Usha, the cover was not properly finished. In the long run and also during servicing, tiny parts of casting, foreign material or paint flakes may come in contact with the bearing and may affect the performance of the fan. The finishing was very poor in the case of Almonard, Ashok, Remi and Shaan. We observed tiny particles of casting inside, where the entire inner surface
Is the Fan Made Well?
(Construction) The IS prescribes the construction test to check whether the fan is made well, proper insulation has been provided, live parts are accessible, etc. Performing these tests involves opening the cover of the fan and checking it visually. All the brands conformed to this test.
Areas of Action
Industry asks for more power. The Indian Fan Manufacturers’ Association has asked the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to increase the maximum power input limit from 50W to 70 W for 1200 mm ceiling fans. We believe that over a period of time, fans should become more energy efficient and deliver more for less power. In fact, in all major appliances, the BIS has reduced the maximum power input limit. So CERC has represented to the BIS, opposing industry’s plea for an increase in the input wattage since there is no justification for it and has asked for an increase in air delivery.
CERC Suggestions Test Chamber . We have suggested that the material used to fabricate the test chamber should be plywood. The BIS has accepted our suggestion. Electronic Regulators are used to save power. We have also suggested to the BIS that the total harmonic distortion of the regulators should be defined in the standard. This is already being done for items like electronic ballasts. It would give an idea of advantages like lower power consumption and disadvantages like overheating of the fan when using this regulator.
However, once we opened the cover, we realised that checking just for the parameters prescribed by the IS was not enough. The finishing and protection to the bearings were important too. You would not be able to check these things, since you never get to open its cover. We found large differences among the brands. We found Crompton the best in construction. The casting of its cover was perfectly finished. It was smooth with no rough surface. The bearing housing had a collar to stop grease from coming out. The collar
should have been smooth. In the long run and during servicing, the metal particles may get deposited on the bearing and between the rotor and stator of the fan which are inside the cover. This can create friction and the fan may not perform smoothly. In Almonard, Ashok, Remi and Shaan, bearing cover was not provided. In Ashok, Asian, Remi and Shaan, stamping was not properly pressed. In the long run, this may give some noise. Rust was observed in Ashok and Shaan.
if the electrician or any one handles the wire assuming that it is an earthing wire, an electric shock may result.
Marking
The big question is how one compares the brands without resorting to testing. We look for the marking - what the manufacturer has printed on the label. None of the brands marked the air delivery value on the packing. According to the IS, apart from the readings of air delivery, information like rated voltage, input in watts, etc., should be marked. Almonard, Ashok, Bajaj,
Continued on page12
1 0 INSIGHT-The Consumer Magazine JAN-FEB 2004
BLACK
COLOR 10
R e g u l a t o r s
Fans come with regulators. But if you don’t want the one supplied, you need not take it. You could get an equivalent discount. Now you can choose another regulator to your liking. But first, it’s important to know the difference between an electric and an electronic regulator.
Electric regulators work by reducing
the voltage supply to the motor inside the fan when you want to reduce the fan speed. In most places, the domestic supply of electric power is of 230 volts. If you want the fan to run at full speed, the regulator supplies the entire 230 volts. But when you reduce the speed, the voltage supply to the fan is reduced through a device called the resistor. The resistor does this by absorbing some of the voltage. So the resistor heats up, heating the regulator itself. Normally, regulators are flushmounted by the electrical contractor. So the internal heat will damage the regulator in the long run. Plus, electric regulators are not energy-efficient and hence uneconomical and not environment friendly as they waste electric energy due to the use of resistors.
Electronic regulators, on the other hand, are smaller. These regulators reduce or increase the fan speed by controlling the wave form of the power supply. They are energy-efficient and can save energy when the fan is running at the lower speeds of 1 and 2.
When we tested an electric and an electronic regulator of the same company, we found that the electric regulator consumed 40 W at speed-1, while the electronic one consumed just about 15 W. But electronic regulators come with just 3 speeds unlike the 5 speeds of electric ones. At full speed, both consume the same amount of power. If price is not a concern, take an electronic regulator. But if price is a concern — electric regulators cost as little as Rs. 40 — go for an electric one.
Power Consumption of Regulators Speed Input Wattage Consumption Electric Electronic 1 40 W 15.4 W 2 51 W 34.2 W 3 61 W 76 W 4 68 W NA 5 76 W NA
The above figures are at 230 volts. The electric regulator consumed 40 W at speed postion no.1 while the electronic regulator consumed only 15.4 W at the same position. So the power saving is about 25W in case of an electronic regulator. Let us suppose that the fan was used for about 10 hours at speed position.1. If the number of fans used is 4 in the house, the daily power saving is as follows: 25 x 10 x 4 = 1kwh = 1 unit of electricity. 1000
NA = Not applicable
Electronic Regulators
Electronic regulators come in two
varieties - step type and movable type. Step regulators increase or decrease the fan speed in steps. In the movable ones, the regulator turns smoothly from one speed to another. Among the step type regulators, we tested Anchor, Galco, MK, North-West, Rider, Roma, Vinay and Wonder . Among the movable type, we tested, Anchor, Harisons and S.S.K.
Anchor and Harisons claim to save power up to 40 per cent. We assume that this is in comparison with electric regulators. A 40 per cent saving in electricity can only be at speed-1. At speed-2, the saving is likely to be just 30 per cent. At full speed, there would be no saving at all.
Brand Step Type Wonder Vinay Galco MK Anchor Rider North-West Roma Movable Type Anchor Harisons SSK Price (Rs.) 155 214 175 311 125 170 359 253 100 87 170 THD* (%) 2.01 2.26 2.36 2.46 2.57 3.10 4.53 6.52 74.09 82.96 89.50
How Good Were The Regulators?
If the regulators are incapable of reducing the fan speed, the purpose of the regulator is lost. Regulators should be able to reduce the fan speed by at least 50 per cent of the full speed. Almonard, Ashok, Asian, Bajaj, Cinni and Usha did not conform. Only Anchor, Crompton, Khaitan, Orient, Ortem, Polar, Remi and Shaan conformed to this parameter. So don’t be surprised if some fans do not slow down as much as they should. Also, fans should run on all the running positions of the regulators. All brands conformed to this test as per the IS.
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
shows us how much the power supply waves are distorted. A high distortion causes the fan motor to heat up. It leads to faster ageing of the fan and equipment at the power company.
Step type regulators are higher
priced, but they come with very little total harmonic distortion. On the other hand, the movable type regulators have a very high distortion which may cause overheating of the fan motor. Electronic regulators of the movable type when operating at lower speeds may give a humming sound because filter circuits are not normally provided.
* THD - Total Harmonic Distortion (the lower the better)
INSIGHT-The Consumer Magazine JAN-FEB 2004 1 1
BLACK COLOUR 11
A fan’s a fan son
No Dad there’s auto speed retention, maxitorque efficiency, wide angle blades...
current, high voltage, insulation resistance, moisture resistance of the regulator, mechanical endurance, abnormal test, stability and mechanical hazards, mechanical strength, components, terminal for external conductors, screws and connections, creepage distance and clearances, resistance to heat, fire and tracking and resistance to rusting. All brands conformed to these parameters. In the case of fan speed, 3 brands conformed to the requirements. The speed was tested by running the fan at full speed. The others did not give the speed of the fan, so no comparison could be made of the actual versus the labelled speed. In any case, what is relevant when you go to buy a fan is the air delivery. It depends on fan speed as well as on fan design.
Warranties and Guarantees
A warranty describes the product - its quality, performance, standard, etc. Breach of a warranty allows you to recover damages due to the breach and consequent loss suffered. But a warranty is not enough to have the sale itself set aside. A guarantee on the other hand, goes to the root of the contract for sale of goods. Breach of a guarantee, entitles you to have the whole sale set aside. You may also get damages if you can successfully prove it. Check whether the company offers a warranty or guarantee and its duration before you buy the fan.
Brand 220-240 V
Almonard Anchor Ashok Asian Cinni Crompton Khaitan Orient Ortem Remi Shaan Usha
Protection
2-year guarantee 2-year warranty 2-year guarantee 2-year warranty 2-year guarantee 2-year warranty 1-year guarantee 2-year guarantee 2-year guarantee 2-year guarantee 2.5-year guarantee 2-year guarantee 2-year guarantee 7-year guarantee
facturers of Crompton, said that, they also supply IS: 374 complying fans to government and institutions while the other fans are as per their specifications with high air delivery and meet all safety requirements of IS: 302. The observations on air delivery and service value are true as regards the High Speed fan. Khaitan Electricals Ltd., manufacturers of Khaitan, said that, manufacturers who make fans conforming to the IS for supplies against RateContract, make their design so that the fan just meets the air delivery requirement as per IS within the stipulated maximum watt at the rated voltage of 230V, whereas at reduced voltage like 200 / 190 V commonly prevalent in most of the consumers’ premises, air delivery will get substantially reduced. This is to the utter dissatisfaction of users. The present stipulation of air delivery value in the IS is not adequate to satisfy contime, fans should sumer needs.
220 - 230 V
Bajaj Polar
Orient, Ortem and Shaan did not mark the input wattage consumption. Ashok, Cinni, Remi and Shaan did not specify the voltage range and the size of the fan on the ceiling fan regulator.
Ashok at Rs 625. When you next go to buy a fan, be sure to bargain and check the price in a few shops. You may be able to get a discount.
Other Parameters
The brands were also tested for safety for protection against electric shock, the starting of motor operated appliances, temperature rise, leakage
Manufacturers’ Correspondence
As a policy, we convey the test results to all the manufacturers, irrespective of whether their brands have passed
or failed. The results are posted to their registered offices by Registered A.D./ Courier. All manufacturers receive the test results of their own product only and are given two weeks from the date of receipt to respond.
Ashok and Shaan did not carry the full address. So, we could not send the results. Also, the results sent to Asian and Ortem were returned. Further, manufacturers of Almonard, Anchor, Cinni and Remi did not respond at the time of going to press. Manufacturers’ Addresses
Almonard Almonard Ltd., New Petit Mansion, 2nd Floor, 95, Sleater Road, Grant Road (W) Mumbai 400 007 Anchor Anchor Electronics & Electricals Pvt. Ltd. Taiwad Road, Devka, Daman 396 210 Ashok Ashok Group of Industries, Mumbai Asian Fans & Applicances Co. Pvt. Ltd. 5, Rashmoni Sadan, 18th Road, Chembur Mumbai 400 071 Bajaj Bajaj Electricals Ltd. 45/47 Veer Nariman Road, Mumbai 400 023 Cinni National Winder, Pishachmochan Marg Varanasi - 221010, UP Crompton Crompton Greaves, 6th Floor, C. G. House, Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai - 30 Khaitan Khaitan Electricals Ltd., A-13 Co. Op. Indl. Estate, Balanagar, Hyderabad 500 037 Orient 11, Indl. Est., Sector 6, Faridabad 121 006 Ortem Metro Appliances Ltd., P.B. No. 44, Noida Complex, Noida 201 30, U.P. Polar Polar Industries Ltd., A-2, Sector 5, Noida 201 301, Gautambuddh Nagar, U. P. Remi Remi Sales & Eng. Ltd., 14 Shah Ind. Est., Veera Desai Rd., Andheri (W), Mumbai - 58 Shaan Prashant Associates Jai Ambe Krupa, Secunderabad Usha The Jay Eng. Works Ltd., 19, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, New Delhi 110 001
For queries write to us at [email protected].
Price
Cinni and Usha were the highest priced at Rs 1495. The least priced brand was
C L A I M S
Brand
Bajaj
V S .
F A C T S
Fact
Bajaj ranked 5th in air delivery. Its power consumption was over the prescribed limit. So it was not energy efficient. Tests were done strictly according to standards.
No significant difference observed in the motor compared to other brands. PSPO equation has been derived by Orient and is not specified in the IS. Power consumption is part of the equation. But Orient’s power consumption and service value did not meet the IS limits showing that the fan was not efficient.
Claim
High air delivery Energy efficient
Company Response
Supply voltage, frequency, position of anemometer and fan, etc. affect air delivery. Nil PSPO accounts for air spread in addition to service value. Conforming to BIS’ service value does not mean a good fan from customers’ performance expectations. Motor designed to accommodate normal fluctuation in voltage and frequency. Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil
Quick start high torque motor
Orient
Ultimate air power PSPO (Peak Speed Performance Output)
Bajaj Electricals Ltd., manufacturers of Bajaj, said that, supply Over a period of voltage and fre- become more energy efficient and quency, voltage deliver more for less power. Orient Fans, drop, position manufacturers of Orient, said that, of anemometer and fan and other they follow their company standards specified parameters affect the air which are made to satisfy the delivery. They asked for these details. customers’ performance requirement Insight: We tested the fans strictly of air delivery and the requisite air according to IS:374-1979 with 6 velocity. These cannot be achieved amendments and IS:12155-1987. The simultaneously meeting BIS service instruments used are highly accurate value levels. and sensitive. Details were sent. Insight: We asked for the tolerance of voltage and frequency and whether Crompton Greaves Ltd., manu- it affects r.p.m. and air delivery. Buying The Right Fan Polar Industries Ltd., manufacturers of Polar, said that they would revert to us once their technical study and examination of the issues raised in our letter were carried out.
Auto speed retention
Normal fluctuation in voltage and frequency not mentioned. Low voltage not specified. No explanation as to how wider blades correlate with larger air delivery. Low voltage not specified. Ranked 5th. Poor finishing. Ranked 8th.
Ortem
Better performance even at low voltage Wider blades, giving larger air displacement
Remi
Satisfactory performance at low voltage Reliability Easy to service Sturdy construction
The size of the fan should depend on the room size. Following are our recommendations for fan size. They are not specified in the IS: Room Size Fan Size (feet) (mm) For small shops, cabins, low ceilings 600 8x 8 900 8 x 10 to 9 x 11 to 10 x 10 1050 10 x 13 to 12 x 12 1200 13 x 16 to 15 x 15 1400 The fan should ideally be fixed 8 feet from the ground. To get the maximum air the fan can give, don’t sit right beneath the fan.
Usha
Undisputed leader in fans
The Jay Engineering Works Ltd., manufacturers of Usha, said that, the tested model is manufactured against buyer’s specifications and not as per IS, nor is it ISI marked. Hence, it cannot be compared with IS. They have a different range of fans that are ISI marked which will meet all the requirements as per IS:374-1979 with 6 amendments.
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