How Does the Dyson Air Multiplier Work?

Bladeless Fan Baffles Onlookers

Imagine a reverse vacuum cleaner that generates airflow of up to 55 mph. For most people who've seen the Dyson Air Multiplier, the first thought that pops into their heads about this bladeless fan technology is, "That's really cool," and the second is, "How do bladeless fans work?" Given the ultra-modern design of this device, it's easy to wonder about the process that makes this "fan" function.

Dyson AM01 Table Fan

Dyson AM01 table fan

The Dyson Air Multiplier is a bladeless fan that provides a smooth flow of air, similar to a constant wind breeze. It has a futuristic look that is very different from traditional fans, and as we found out, it works much differently as well.

The Technology Behind the Dyson Air Multiplier

Although it is called a "bladeless" fan, the Dyson Air Multiplier has blades within; they're just hidden inside the pedestal stand. This is the section of the fan that draws in up to 5.28 gallons of air per second, as much as a vacuum cleaner!

In addition to the blades in the pedestal stand, the air multiplier also uses a brushless electric motor, which rotates the nine asymmetrically aligned blades. This Dyson Air Multiplier technology provides precise control of the fan's speed while staying relatively quiet compared to brushed motors. The pedestal motor adds extra push to the fast-flowing air and shoots it up into the ring portion of the fan.

Dyson Air Multiplier air flow compared to traditional fan

Dyson air flow vs traditional fan

The air flows through the channel in the pedestal, through a curved path, and comes out from small 16mm slits around the frame of the fan at a 16-degree angle slope. You may think that this just causes air to blow in the shape of the surface area of a cylinder. Still, the physical laws of inducement and entrainment allow for the surrounding air to also become drawn in from multiple areas around the fan. To understand this Dyson Air Multiplier fan technology, picture your TV weather map; a small low-pressure region is created, which actually draws the air in from behind it, like a forming tropical storm. This simultaneous push and pull of air creates a quiet, even, constant flow of cool breeze.

Cutaway view of the slit of the frame

cutaway view of the slit of the frame


Airflow demonstrating inducement and entrainment

airflow diagram


Making use of these laws, Dyson claims that the output of airflow is increased 15 times more than that taken in through the pedestal's motor, thus the name: air multiplier. The result is a filled cylinder of air flowing smoothly without the choppiness of traditional fans. The price range may be a little beyond the normal price for a fan, and some users have claimed that it can be rather noisy. The technology behind the Dyson Air Multiplier provides an eye-pleasing, low-power-consuming fan that is safe to use around young children due to the lack of accessible rotating blades.

What Do Actual Users Say?

You might still be wondering, “How do bladeless fans work?” or does the Dyson Air Multiplier fan technology prove reliable. For better understanding, let’s see what actual users say. Users rave about the Dyson Air Multiplier but can’t ignore the hefty price tag and the noise. Fans love the sleek design and even airflow, but many compare the noise to a jet engine. If you’re a tech enthusiast, this innovative approach to cooling likely grabs your interest despite its flaws.

Explore More About Innovative Electronics

Find the latest advancements, breakthroughs in electronic components, and detailed information on new tech at Jameco Electronics. Our resources make it easy to stay on top of industry trends and learn practical applications. If you have an electronics story or project you'd like to share, please email [email protected].


About the Author

Robert Cong


Robert Cong obtained his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. During his undergraduate career, he developed a strong foundation in circuits, electronics, and digital signal processing which sparked his passion for emerging technologies.In his free time, he enjoys staying active through sports, discovering new films and music. Furthermore, Robert takes delight in exploring the latest innovations in consumer electronics.