Expert: Paul Soderman - 2/8/2011

Question
Hello Paul,  Can you please tell me which is the best blower configuration I would need to create a wind velocity of 100 MPH with approx 5,000 CFM? Here are the parameters that I would like to stay in....

Sorry to say, but my particular application and use for the blowers is confidential, I am under a non disclosure and confidentiality agreement as to their use with my employer.  

Ideally speaking for our application, we envisage the following blower layout...  Approximately qty (6) 12"dia X 12" wide blowers placed in series along a 7'-0" long common shaft with each wheel spaced approximately 1.5 inches apart in order that air may properly be captured through the sides of each blower wheel.  The 7 foot length CANNOT be compromised.  

I would envision a 1" inch  venturi exhaust vent along the 7 foot length, of course the whole blower configuration would be housed in one common plenum with spaces cut out of the plenum every 12 inches to allow for the intake of air along the 7 foot length.

To capsulate the above, what type of blowers would help us achieve the wind flow I have described?  Also, what kind of power would be needed to drive it?  I can tell you that this would be a portable unit and as such the blowers would have to be belt driven by a gasoline engine, (smallest possible.)

Maximum CFM and wind velocity is of paramount importance.  If there is a possibility of talking with you on the telephone I will be able to elaborate in more detail rather than on this public forum.  You can provide your telephone number in my  address, if you don't mind.

Kind regards.

Answer
Jeff
I cannot tell from your description enough about the geometry to answer your questions, but if you contact me through my email address:  psoderman@gmail.com we may be able to exchange enough information to see if your project is possible.  If I wind up doing actual work I will have to charge a consulting fee, which we can discuss in more detail.  That also binds me to confidentiality.
Paul