When it comes to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, ducts are essential components that play a major role in the overall efficiency of the system. Ducts are responsible for transporting air from the HVAC unit to the various rooms in a building. There are three main types of ducts used in HVAC systems: flexible ducts, rigid ducts, and semi-rigid ducts. In this article, we'll explore each type of duct and discuss their advantages and disadvantages.
Flexible Ducts
Flexible ducts are constructed from a metal wire coil covered with a layer of flexible plastic. This type of duct is usually cube-shaped and has no gaps or elbows. Flexible ducts are often used in homes where space is limited. The plastic covering helps to reduce noise from the HVAC system, while the metal wire coil provides strength and durability.Additionally, flexible ducts have thermal insulation made of glass wool or other materials such as polyethylene or metallized PET. This insulation helps to keep the air temperature consistent throughout the building.
Rigid Ducts
Rigid ducts are similar to sheet metal ducts but have an internal or external fiberglass coating. This type of duct is often used in commercial buildings and offices because it has the ability to dampen sound from the HVAC system.Rigid ducts can also be lined with fiberglass for additional insulation.
Semi-Rigid Ducts
Semi-rigid ducts are made from special fibers and are a terminal air outlet system that replaces traditional air supply ducts, air valves, air diffusers, and thermal insulation materials. This type of duct is fireproof, corrosion-resistant, heavy, hard but brittle, and easy to deform and crack under the influence of dead weight. Semi-rigid ducts are often used in homes because they don't take up much space and can be moved from one side to the other.They also don't allow mold or bacteria to reproduce in the air ducts because both materials are non-porous.
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