Commercial construction in today’s market has a strong focus on cost savings and green technology. One way to further our efforts in these areas is utilizing fabric duct in lieu of standard galvanized ductwork. Fabric ductwork is just that, round ductwork made of a polyester-based material that basically inflates when the air handler energizes, allowing air to enter the conditioned space through pre-cut holes as well as passive passage through the actual wall of the fabric material itself. Fabric duct has been used since the early 1980’s and is becoming a fairly common sight in fitness centers, school gymnasiums, and other applications where long runs of exposed ductwork is common.
Advantages of Fabric Ductwork
Fabric ductwork offers several advantages over standard galvanized ductwork. Air quality is improved through better and more effective air distribution. Solid waste is reduced because of less packaging, less jobsite waste, and less material required for hanging. Several manufacturers of fabric duct work are using recycled materials to make their ductwork, some up to 55%. The material is light weight which results in less energy to ship and less labor and resources to install. Installation labor and handling costs are greatly reduced because the fabric duct is 90 percent lighter than metal and hangs from suspension cables. Operating costs are reduced through increased efficiency of air delivery and reduced maintenance cost. Fabric duct helps maintain a healthy environment. The material is washable, and the exposed application plus the permeability of the fabric will keep it free of condensation and mold growth.
Other advantages include color choice, customization, and mobility. Manufacturers offer fabric duct in a variety of colors to match any pattern or scheme the customer desires. Fabric duct is custom cut for whatever length your project requires and is available from six inches to eightyfour inches in diameter. Fabric duct meets smoke development and flame spread test requirements and is UL classified. Fabric duct’s light weight and suspension system make it easily interchangeable or movable should you change your floor plan.
Contact a member of our ConServ team to learn more.
ConServ Building Services, LLC provides excellent commercial HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing, and general construction services to businesses across the Southeastern United States. To learn more about ConServ, visit www.conservonline.com.