What is AC Ducting?
AC ducting is a system of ducts designed to distribute air throughout a building via an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system. The ducts are typically made of metal or plastic and are connected to vents in different rooms or areas of the building.
Who first invented and used ducting in Air Conditioning?
The concept of air ducting was first introduced by Willis Carrier, the father of modern air conditioning, in 1902.
Types and materials used in AC Ducting and Advantages and Disadvantages for each type
A. Sheet Metal Ducts: These ducts are made from sheet metal such as galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper. Advantages include their durability, longevity, and resistance to fire. Disadvantages include their weight, cost, and potential for corrosion.
B. Fiberglass Insulated Ducts: These ducts are made from fiberglass insulation covered by a layer of foil or plastic. Advantages include their lightweight, ease of installation, and insulation properties. Disadvantages include their lower durability and potential for mold growth.
c. Flexible Ducts: These ducts are made from a flexible plastic material and are often used in tight spaces or areas with difficult access. Advantages include their flexibility, ease of installation, and affordability. Disadvantages include their potential for leaks and insulation quality.
d. Fabric Ducts: These ducts are made of fabric and are increasingly being used as an alternative to traditional metal ducts. Advantages include their light weight, easy installation, and aesthetic appeal. Disadvantages include their lower durability and limited application range.
Seal Class of Ducting:
Seal class of ducting refers to the level of air leakage allowed by a particular duct system. The most commonly used seal classes are A, B, and C, with Class A being the tightest and Class C being the least tight.
Construction Class of Ducting:
Construction class of ducting refers to the strength and durability of the duct material. The most commonly used construction classes are A, B, and C, with Class A being the highest strength and fire resistance and Class C being the lowest.
Leakage testing of Ducting:
Leakage testing is an important step in the installation of ductwork to ensure that the system is properly sealed and functioning efficiently. This can be done using various methods such as pressure testing, flow hood testing, or smoke testing. Leakage testing should be performed by a qualified professional to ensure accurate results.
Accessories of Ducting: Accessories commonly used in ducting installations include but not limited to:
- Duct fittings (such as elbows, tees, reducers)
- Volume dampers
- Access doors/panels
- Grilles and diffusers
- Fire dampers
- Flexible connectors
- Turning vanes
- Vibration isolators
- Silencers
- Thermostats and controls
Consumables used to install ducting: In addition to the consumables mentioned earlier, here are some more commonly used items:
- Zip ties or wire ties (for securing ductwork)
- Vapor barrier (a plastic or foil sheeting used to prevent condensation)
- Duct wrap (an insulation material used to wrap around exposed ductwork)
- Access panels (for providing access to hidden ductwork)
- Diffusers or grilles (for covering air vents)
- Fire dampers (used to prevent the spread of fire through ductwork)
Tools used by ductmen when they install ducts: Some common tools used by duct installers include:
- Tape measure
- Level
- Square
- Pliers
- Screwdrivers
- Rivet gun
- Nut driver
- Pipe cutter
- Hammer drill (for concrete installations)
- Power saw (for cutting sheet metal or fiberglass ducts)
Safety precautions to consider during installation:
Installing AC ducting involves working with sharp objects, electrical wiring, and possibly hazardous chemicals. To ensure safety during installation, workers should take the following precautions:
- Wear protective clothing, including gloves, goggles, and respiratory masks if necessary.
- Use caution when handling sharp objects such as metal ducting or cutting tools.
- Turn off all electrical power before beginning work on the HVAC system.
- Follow appropriate safety procedures for working at heights, such as using proper scaffolding or harnesses.
- Be aware of any hazardous chemicals or fumes that may be present during installation and take appropriate safety measures, such as wearing a respirator or working in a well-ventilated area.
What is AC Ducting Work ?