Abstract: A gas-handling apparatus includes a housing enclosure having an inlet port and an outlet port which are connected by a duct and blower assembly, wherein the blower assembly draws a gaseous substance from a room or enclosed area and transfers this gaseous substance to another area, such as to the atmosphere. The blower assembly includes a cylindrical arrangement of fan blades attached to a drive shaft which is bearingly supported by a tubular column. This tubular column is rigidly attached to the housing enclosure. The tubular column and drive shaft extend internal to the arrangement of fan blades and the drive shaft is bearingly supported at this internal location. A drive motor is mechanically coupled to the drive shaft in order to rotate the arrangement of fan blades. One end of the duct is attached to the inlet port while the other end of the duct is attached to a duct coupling. This duct coupling serves as an interface between the duct and a tapered shroud member located at one end of the blower assembly.