| abstract |
In order to operate gas lasers, for example, a continuous flow of a gas mixture, consisting of an inert carrier gas and an often aggressive doping gas, is required. In the invention, a radial-flow fan serves as the fan, and the fan housing is filled with the gas mixture, while a motor housing coupled to the fan housing is filled with pure carrier gas. In the operating mode, the fan housing is sealed off from the motor housing by a gas ring (40); when the fan is at a standstill, this seal is made by a hollow sealing ring (33) inflated by gas pressure. Fans constructed in accordance with the invention are suitable in particular for operating gas lasers (excimer lasers). <IMAGE> |