IFB & VIFB Coils
Integral Face and Bypass (IFB) coils are considered one of the most effective preheat systems ever developed; IFB coils are available in horizontal (HIFB) and vertical (VIFB) configurations. Full steam pressure or constant water flow is maintained in the coil at all times, and the temperature of the discharge air is controlled by proportioning the entering air through multiple heating and bypass channels. Unique clamshell-shaped dampers allow a constant volume of air to pass through the unit while maintaining a constant pressure drop. The preset discharge air temperature is held constant, regardless of inlet air temperature variations.
IFB & VIFB Product Details
IFB and VIFB coils are built to match your exact mechanical and performance requirements, including:
- Horizontal (HIFB) configuration for standard make-up air and penthouse unit applications
- Vertical (VIFB) configuration for installations with limited horizontal clearance
- Steam or hot water operation, maintained at full pressure/flow to prevent freeze-related failures
- Clamshell-style face and bypass dampers engineered for constant airflow and pressure drop
- Custom sizing available as a direct OEM replacement for your existing equipment footprint
- Engineering support from our in-house Coil Engineering & Design team to validate performance before fabrication
Specifications
Coil Replacement Company assigns a dedicated engineer to review, visit, measure, or consult (virtually) by analyzing your exact requirements. CRC then generates drawings, performance evaluations, and quotations – while taking responsibility for your coil and/or product solution. We deliver unparalleled service, allowing the mechanical contractor and end-customer to focus on their core assets and property management responsibilities.
Industries We Serve
IFB and VIFB coils are commonly specified across a wide range of facility types where reliable preheating and freeze protection are critical, including:
- Manufacturing & Equipment facilities requiring combustion air make-up and process air preheat
- Education, Government & Municipality buildings with high outside-air ventilation demands
- Commercial Properties using penthouse and rooftop make-up air units
- Food & Beverage plants needing consistent discharge air temperatures
- Hospital, Medical & Pharmaceutical environments with strict air handling requirements
- Mechanical Contractors specifying new construction or retrofit coil replacements
- Energy and industrial facilities requiring continuous preheat performance
- Automotive paint and finishing operations requiring make-up air conditioning
Long-Lasting Performance That Increases Coil Lifespan
To ensure long-lasting performance while increasing the lifespan of your Integral Face and Bypass (IFB) coils, CRC offers many different coating options that provide an additional level of protection against corrosive environments including, but not limited to, automotive paint houses, chlorinated pool facilities, coastal sea areas, industrial manufacturing plants, locations with high sun exposure, medical/pharmaceutical environments, and restaurant kitchens. Contact us for assistance in selecting from our available coatings, including ElectroFin® E-coat, Endura® Coatings (750+ Technologies), Infinigard, phenolic, and UV Topcoat.
Frequently Asked Questions About IFB/VIFB Coils
IFB (Integral Face and Bypass) coils preheat outside air in HVAC systems by maintaining full steam pressure or constant water flow at all times. They're commonly used for make-up air units, combustion air make-up, penthouse units, and air handling systems that require a constant discharge air temperature.
IFB coils use a horizontal tube configuration, while VIFB (Vertical Integral Face and Bypass) coils use a vertical tube layout, ideal for installations with limited horizontal space. Both types operate identically, using clamshell-shaped dampers to proportion airflow through heating and bypass channels for consistent discharge temperatures.
IFB coils prevent freezing by keeping full steam pressure or constant water flow circulating through the coil at all times, even during periods of low heating demand. This design eliminates the stagnant, low-flow conditions that typically cause coil freeze-ups in cold climates.
Yes. While coatings such as ElectroFin® E-Coat, Endura® Coatings, Infinigard, phenolic, and UV topcoat are designed for traditional fin-and-tube coils, IFB and VIFB coils can be protected with an optional epoxy coating. This provides added corrosion resistance in harsh or corrosive environments, helping extend coil lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.
Yes. IFB and VIFB coils can be custom-engineered and fabricated as direct OEM replacements, matching the dimensions and performance specifications of your existing unit. A dedicated engineer reviews your requirements and provides drawings, performance evaluations, and a quotation before fabrication begins.
Why not give CRC a call now … and let’s work together to find the customized solution that is right for you!