What Are the Types of Duct System?

Flexible ductwork, rigid ductwork, and semi-rigid ductwork are the primary types among duct systems.

From newly constructed commercial buildings to long-lived apartments, the extensive network of ducts ensures healthy air contributions overall. To acknowledge the reason for keeping the ducts in top condition, you need to know about different duct systems.  

From Basics- What Are the Types of Duct System

The HVAC system that stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning of a commercial building consists of some tube-shaped bendable coil known as ducts. They are typically made of a wire coil covered with durable plastic and enclosed by insulation.

The distribution of hot and cold air in different areas of the building is regulated by these ducts. You can contact duct technicians to keep it up-to-date.

What Are the Types of Duct System?

Ducts are essential components of any HVAC system, as they are responsible for distributing conditioned air throughout the building. However, not all ducts are the same.

There are different types of duct systems that vary in their materials, shapes, sizes, and installation methods.

Each type of duct system has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the specific needs and preferences of the building owner and the HVAC contractor.

In this blog section, we will discuss the three main types of duct systems:

• Flexible ductwork
• Rigid ductwork
• and semi-rigid ductwork.

We will also explain their characteristics, applications, and pros and cons.

Flexible Ductwork

Flexible ductwork is a type of duct system that consists of a wire coil covered with a bendable plastic material and surrounded by insulation.

Flexible ducts are usually tube-shaped and can be easily cut and shaped to fit any space. They are often used to connect rigid ducts to air vents or registers, or to supply air to hard-to-reach areas.

Some of the advantages of flexible ductwork are

• It is easy to install and requires less labor and materials than rigid ductwork.
• It can conform to any shape and size of space, making it ideal for irregular or tight spaces.
• It can reduce noise and vibration from the HVAC system, as it absorbs sound and dampens airflow.

Some of the disadvantages of flexible ductwork are:

• It is more prone to damage from rodents, insects, moisture, or punctures than rigid ductwork.
• It can restrict airflow if it is bent or twisted too much, reducing the efficiency and performance of the HVAC system.
• It can accumulate dust and debris more easily than rigid ductwork, requiring more frequent cleaning and maintenance.

Rigid Ductwork

Rigid ductwork is a type of duct system that is made of solid metal sheets, usually galvanized steel or aluminum.

Rigid ducts can be either rectangular or cylindrical in shape and are joined together by various methods such as slip-and-drive joints or TDC joints.

This type of ducts are often used as the main trunk lines or branch lines of an HVAC system.

Some of the advantages of rigid ductwork are:

• It is durable and resistant to damage from rodents, insects, moisture, or fire than flexible ductwork.
• It can maintain a consistent airflow and pressure throughout the HVAC system, ensuring optimal efficiency and performance.
• It can prevent air leakage and heat loss better than flexible ductwork, as it has fewer joints and seams.

Some of the disadvantages of rigid ductwork are:

• It is more expensive and labor-intensive to install than flexible ductwork, as it requires more materials and tools.
• It can be difficult to fit into irregular or tight spaces, requiring more custom fabrication or modification.
• It can transmit noise and vibration from the HVAC system more easily than flexible ductwork, creating more sound pollution.

Semi-Rigid Ductwork

Semi-rigid ductwork is a type of duct system that is somewhere between flexible and rigid ductwork. Semi-rigid ducts are made of thin metal sheets that can be bent slightly but still retain their shape. Semi-rigid ducts are usually round in shape and are connected by compression fittings or clamps. Semi-rigid ducts are often used for exhaust systems such as kitchen hoods or dryer vents.

Some of the advantages of semi-rigid ductwork are:

• It is more flexible than rigid ductwork but more rigid than flexible ductwork, offering a balance between ease of installation and durability.
• It can handle higher temperatures and pressures than flexible ductwork, making it suitable for exhaust applications.
• It can prevent air leakage better than flexible ductwork, as it has fewer joints and seams.

Some of the disadvantages of semi-rigid ductwork are:

• It is more expensive than flexible ductwork but less expensive than rigid ductwork, offering a moderate cost-effectiveness.
• It can be damaged by rodents, insects, moisture, or punctures more easily than rigid ductwork but less easily than flexible ductwork, requiring moderate protection and maintenance.
• It can restrict airflow if it is bent or twisted too much, reducing the efficiency and performance of the HVAC system.

Conclusion

Flexible ductwork, rigid ductwork, and semi-rigid ductwork are the three main types of duct systems that are used for different HVAC applications. Each type of duct system has its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages that should be considered before choosing one for your project. By understanding the differences between these types of duct

What are the 4 Different Types of Ductwork Materials

If you are planning to install or replace the ductwork in your home or commercial building, you might be wondering what are the best materials to use.

However, not all ductwork materials are created equal, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in terms of performance, efficiency and durability.

Now we will talk, four different types of ductwork materials that are commonly used in HVAC systems:

• sheet metal
• fiberglass
• fiberboard and
• flexible ducts.

We will also compare their advantages and disadvantages and provide some tips on how to select the best material for your specific needs.

Sheet Metal Ducts

Sheet metal ducts are one of the most popular and widely used types of ductwork materials.

They are made of galvanized steel or aluminum, which are both durable, resistant to corrosion and easy to clean.

Sheet metal ducts have a smooth surface that minimizes air friction and reduces energy loss.

They also protect the ducts from dirt, dust and moisture, which can affect the air quality and cause health problems.

Sheet metal ducts are suitable for both residential and commercial applications, as they can be customized to fit any space and layout.

They can also withstand high temperatures and pressures, making them ideal for heating systems.

However, sheet metal ducts also have some drawbacks.

They are relatively expensive to install and require professional skills and tools.

It can also be noisy when the air flows through them, especially if they are not properly insulated or sealed.

Additionally, sheet metal ducts can conduct heat or cold easily, which can affect the temperature of the conditioned air and reduce the efficiency of the HVAC system.

Fiberglass Ducts

Fiberglass ducts are another common type of ductwork materials. They are made of fiberglass strands that are bonded together with resin and coated with a foil or plastic layer for insulation.

Fiberglass ducts have a high insulation value, which means they can maintain the temperature of the conditioned air longer and prevent heat loss or gain.

They also reduce the noise of the air flow, making them quieter than sheet metal ducts.

Fiberglass ducts are mostly used in commercial buildings, where they can provide thermal comfort and energy savings.

They can also be installed in areas where sheet metal ducts cannot fit, such as tight spaces or curved walls.

However, fiberglass ducts also have some disadvantages.

They are more prone to damage from moisture, mold and pests, which can compromise their integrity and performance. They also require more frequent cleaning and maintenance, as they can trap dirt and dust in their textured surface.

Moreover, fiberglass ducts can release small particles into the air, which can cause respiratory issues or allergic reactions for some people.

Fiberboard Ducts

Fiberboard ducts are another type of ductwork materials that are made of compressed fiberglass strands that are mixed with resin and formed into rigid boards.

The boards are then cut into sections and fitted together to create the duct system.

Fiberboard ducts have a similar insulation value as fiberglass ducts, which means they can also keep the conditioned air at a consistent temperature and reduce energy loss or gain.

They also have a smooth interior surface that allows for efficient air flow.

Fiberboard ducts are mainly used in residential applications, where they can provide adequate heating and cooling for smaller spaces.

They are also relatively easy to install and modify, as they can be cut and shaped with simple tools.

However, fiberboard ducts also have some drawbacks.

They are not very durable or resistant to moisture, mold and pests, which can cause them to deteriorate over time.

They also need to be properly sealed at the joints and seams to prevent air leakage and contamination.

Furthermore, fiberboard ducts can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can affect the indoor air quality and cause health problems.

Flexible Ducts

Flexible ducts are a type of ductwork materials that are made of a wire coil covered with a bendable plastic or rubber material and surrounded by insulation.

Flexible ducts are designed to be easily installed and connected to rigid ducts or vents in various locations and angles.

Flexible ducts have a low installation cost and require minimal skills and tools. They can also accommodate different sizes and shapes of spaces and reduce the number of joints and fittings needed.

Flexible ducts are mostly used in residential applications, where they can provide heating and cooling for individual rooms or zones. They can also be used in commercial applications where rigid

FAQs

What is the main duct?

Duct pipes and trunks are the elementary channels that provide a path for cooled or heated air to blow throughout your house. The duct trunk is known as the main duct from the boiler. It is generally made of steel. 

What is the lifespan of a duct system?

Ductworks mostly last between 10 and 15 years in most houses. It is recommended to change the ducts if they are older than 15 years to prevent leaks, gaps, drafts, and pests.

Why flex duct is bad?

Flex duct is bad as it has certain disadvantages that make it a less popular choice in some cases. These include the lack of structural integrity, the need to constantly be maintained, and above all, not having those qualities necessary for long-term durability.

Conclusion

Understanding the vast array of types of air ducts available for your home or office can significantly enhance the efficiency and quality of your HVAC system. Among the various options, fiberglass lined air ducts stand out for their excellent sound dampening qualities and insulation properties. This type of ductwork, ideal for ensuring quieter operation of your air conditioner, is a superb choice for both residential and commercial settings.

Another noteworthy option is fiberboard air ducts, which are constructed from compressed fiberglass and resin to create a dense, insulated material. These ducts not only improve thermal efficiency but also reduce the likelihood of condensation. However, it’s crucial to periodically inspect all types of air ducts for signs of wear and tear, such as areas that may leak air, to maintain optimal performance and energy efficiency.

Duct systems are somewhat underrated lookouts among house concerns. It is really important to select the right duct system and maintain it properly as this function directly affects the central unit’s performance. The perfect ductwork according to your HVAC system can make your home environment relaxing than ever.