What is ducted fan?

A ducted fan is a propeller enclosed in a cylindrical shroud or duct. This design enhances the thrust generated by the propeller and reduces the losses associated with tip vortices. Ducted fans are commonly used in applications such as model aircraft, drones, and some manned aircraft.

Ducted fans are more efficient than open propellers because the shroud reduces the amount of air that spills over the tips of the propeller blades. This improves the thrust efficiency and allows for higher speeds and better maneuverability.

One of the main advantages of ducted fans is their compact size and relatively low noise levels compared to open propellers. They are also safer to use in crowded areas because the duct provides a physical barrier between the spinning propeller and people or objects nearby.

Overall, ducted fans are a popular choice for applications that require high efficiency, compact size, and lower noise levels. They are used in a variety of industries including aerospace, robotics, and transportation.