Top Facts About Sheet Metal Ductwork For Commercial Buildings
The ductwork in a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system refers to a channel that facilitates the transfer of fresh air into a building and stale or warm air out of the premise. One of the most common types of ductwork, in commercial buildings, is the sheet metal type that comes in different sizes and materials. You are likely to find a rectangular or cylindrical type of ductwork in commercial buildings' HVAC systems. This article outlines the top facts about sheet metal ductwork for commercial buildings.
Sheet Metal Ductwork Material
Galvanised steel and aluminium are the most common materials used for manufacturing sheet metal ductwork. The reason is that these materials are resistant to the elements, such as corrosion, when well maintained. Due to their non-porous surface, aluminium and galvanised steel are resistant to the growth of mould and mildew. Besides, aluminium and galvanised steel are durable materials, which gives your ductwork longevity of service life. Aluminium ductwork is lightweight and thus, easy to install in a commercial building without the need for special equipment. However, the aluminium should be thick enough to allow movement through the ductwork during maintenance of an HVAC system.
Sheet Metal Ducts Insulation
In most commercial buildings, the sheet metal ducts that run through a building are often insulated with a fibrous glass liner. Fibrous glass ductwork liner refers to a combination of fibreglass and thermosetting resin. The reason for such insulation is to attenuate noise created by air conditioning equipment and by air movement within the sheet metal ductwork. Furthermore, fibrous glass mitigates against the formation of water vapour condensation on the interior and exterior surfaces of the sheet metal ductwork. Another benefit of lining sheet metal ducts with fibrous glass is to reduce heat gain and loss through the duct's surface.
Consult an HVAC Expert
Before buying ductwork for your commercial HVAC system, you should first consult a certified technician to advise you on the best choice. With the many alternatives in the market, first-time buyers can find the options overwhelming. The choice of ductwork will depend on factors such as a building's square footage, number of occupants, and regional climate, among others. However, sheet metal ductwork is recommended because it is cost-effective, durable, and safe. If you want to realise savings, your professional can have the ductwork fabricated so that it is customised for your commercial HVAC system.
For further questions about sheetmetal HVAC fabrication, reach out to a manufacturer near you.
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