Why Side Channel Blower Can Perform Both Suction and Blowing Functions

The Engineering Behind Dual-Function Capability

A side channel blower is capable of both suction (vacuum) and blowing (pressure) due to its unique regenerative air movement principle. Unlike conventional fans or positive displacement compressors, side channel blowers operate on the basis of kinetic energy transfer through a non-contact impeller spinning at high speed inside a specially shaped housing.

As air enters the blower, the impeller accelerates it outward into a spiral motion within the side channel. The air is repeatedly "regenerated" by being circulated between the impeller blades and the housing. This continuous process builds up pressure or vacuum, depending on the direction of flow and system setup.

The same blower, without modification to internal components, can serve as either an air supplier or an air remover, depending on how the inlet and outlet are configured.

Impeller Design Enables Bidirectional Function

The impeller, directly mounted to the motor shaft, plays a central role in this dual-function operation. The impeller blades create a powerful vortex that:

• Draws air in when operating in vacuum mode

• Pushes air out when configured for pressure discharge

The absence of internal valves, vanes, or reciprocating parts allows reversible flow. Simply switching the connected pipework or adjusting airflow direction enables the blower to handle both tasks using the same core mechanism.

Side Channel Structure Facilitates Regenerative Airflow

The side channel itself is an annular groove surrounding the impeller. As air is forced into this groove, it circulates multiple times, gaining pressure or vacuum force with each pass.

This regenerative compression effect makes the blower capable of generating:

• Vacuum levels up to -500 mbar

• Pressure levels up to 750 mbar

Because the system continuously energizes the same air mass, it's able to produce sufficient force for suction or blowing without mechanical compression or oil-based sealing.

Non-Contact, Oil-Free Operation Enhances Versatility

Side channel blowers are completely oil-free and non-contacting:

• No lubrication is needed

• No internal wear occurs from contact

• Clean, dry air is always delivered

This allows one machine to be safely and effectively used for both suction and blowing applications, even in cleanroom, laboratory, food, and pharmaceutical environments.

Typical Applications That Require Both Functions

Many industrial systems require alternating or simultaneous suction and blowing:

Pneumatic Conveying

• Suction is used to pick up and transport lightweight materials

• Blowing is used to push those materials through tubing or into storage bins

Vacuum Lifting and Air Knife Systems

• Use vacuum to lift, hold, or grip parts

• Use pressure to blow off dust, debris, or liquids

Environmental Air Control

• Suction extracts fumes or particles

• Blowing supplies fresh air into sealed or ventilated areas

Wastewater Aeration

• Pressure is used to oxygenate tanks

• Vacuum can assist in gas removal or filtration backflow cleaning

In all of these use cases, the ability to handle both airflow directions with a single machine simplifies installation and minimizes system complexity.

Dual-Port Configuration Supports Flexible Use

Side channel blowers are typically built with both an inlet and an outlet port, often located on opposite sides of the blower housing. Depending on the installation:

• The inlet can be connected to a system for suction

• The outlet can be connected for blowing

• Both can be used at once in closed-loop or circulating systems

This allows one side channel blower to perform dynamic operations in automation, robotics, chemical processes, or packaging lines.

Performance and Control Features

Side channel blowers are engineered for consistent, controllable airflow:

• Non-pulsating output

• Speed-controlled motors (optional with frequency inverters)

• Low vibration and noise

• Durable materials like die-cast aluminum or stainless steel

• Coating options for corrosion and wear resistance

Their performance is stable across long operation cycles, making them ideal for continuous-use environments.

Conclusion

Side channel blowers are inherently capable of both suction and blowing because of their regenerative airflow design, non-contact impeller, and dual-port construction. Their ability to handle airflow in both directions makes them one of the most versatile, efficient, and reliable air-moving solutions available.

Whether in material handling, industrial automation, wastewater treatment, or cleanroom environments, a single side channel blower can deliver what traditionally required two separate machines—clean, stable, and efficient airflow, regardless of direction.