In this study, a preliminary design method of the axial fan was systematically established based on the two-dimensional cascade theory. Flow deviation, lift coefficient, distribution of velocity and pressure coefficient on blade surfaces were predicted by an inviscid flow theory of Martensen method, which was also applied to select an airfoil for required performance in the present design process. The aerodynamic performance of designed blades can be predicted quickly and reasonably by using the through-flow calculation method in the preliminary design process. It would be recommendable to adopt three-dimensional viscous flow calculation at the final design refinement stage.