The secret behind the low sound and high CFM of the Panaflo fan is the use of Panasonic's Hyperflow Technology. Essentially this means that it uses a sleeve setup yet still has all the benefits and longevity of ball bearing technology.

Panasonic's Hyperflow Technology:

"Panaflo's unique hydrowave bearing (HWB) addresses the traditional weakness of sleeve bearings...axial friction. By utilizing our unique HWB system, the thrust plate "floats" on a circulating film of oil, which greatly reduces the axial friction and the bearing's deterioration. The HWB pattern on the bearing virtually eliminates thrust plate contact which is depicted above.

As the shaft rotates it acts as a pump constantly circulating the oil in the radial, as well as the axial direction. The sealed system and reservoirs of oil maintain the proper lubrication to minimize mechanical contact and prolong the fan's life expectancy. The radial direction analysis shown above is essentially the same as a traditional sleeve bearing. Panasonic's unique HWB reduces the axial contact."