Benefits of pre-insulated ductwork
Mechanical engineers and building services installers face a growing set of challenges as we head into 2023. The rising energy costs and drive towards net zero means that developers are looking to minimise the energy demand from building services whilst the lingering effects of the pandemic mean that air quality is now under greater scrutiny than ever before. Add to this the ongoing skills shortages impacting the industry, and it is a daunting list.
In response to these challenges, many are now turning to modular approaches such as pre-insulated phenolic ductwork systems. These systems offer a range of potential benefits, allowing improved installation speed and adaptability, supporting clean air distribution, and delivering air-leakage rates which can be a fraction of those of conventional ductwork – potentially greatly reducing system operational costs.
Installation savings
Traditionally, HVAC ductwork is constructed from galvanised sheet steel, which is installed first and then insulated separately as a second operation. This makes installations a lengthy and labour-intensive process, particularly for larger dimensions of steel ductwork, and space must also be left for the ductwork to be lagged once in place.
In contrast, pre-insulated ductwork systems are formed from rigid phenolic insulation panels faced with aluminium foil on both sides. These panels can be used to fabricate ductwork in sections up to 2.95 m long. With no need to install insulation in a second fix, the runs can be fitted flush with floors, walls and ceilings, saving up to 200 mm in a single dimension.
