The Importance of Large Ductwork

Ductwork systems optimize the volume and direction of airflow an HVAC system manages. Large, industrial ductwork systems are responsible for improving air quality conditions in dusty, chemical-laden, and otherwise hazardous environments. The right duct size and configuration has a profound effect on the conditions inside industrial manufacturing, processing, and rendering facilities, making it an important investment in any quality-controlled environment.

The Function of Large Ductwork in Industrial Sites

The complications of an inappropriately sized ductwork system best illustrate the value of appropriately sized ductwork within industrial facilities. Ducts that are too small or too large can:

1. Create excessive noise
2. Cause particulates to pool in the ductwork outside the dust collection system and compromise the structure
3. Fail to properly ventilate a work environment for healthy breathing conditions
4. Shorten the life expectancy of the HVAC system and the ductwork
5. Over-filter the environment and remove valuable industrial components from industrial products and into the dust collection system.  

Large high-capacity ductwork can handle larger quantities of airflow and deliver better return rates than undersized systems. Centralized HVAC systems cannot perform without a network of ducts, hoods, and vents removing and replenishing air within a facility.

OSHA and the EPA both regulate industrial air quality. The right ductwork size and setup will not only meet regulatory standards, but also potentially improve working conditions and productivity levels within the facility. Appropriate ventilation is at the core of industrial infrastructure.

Considerations for Large Ductwork Installations

Large ductwork refers to any duct systems that measure larger and use heavier metal gauges than commercially available systems.

You must consider the following factors to choose a successful ductwork design:

Current Air Quality Measurements

he amount and size of dust, allergens, and contaminants in the air will largely determine the size of large ductwork needed. Facilities need ductwork capable of carrying particulates through the air to the dust collection system for filtration. Ductwork must also meet air output recommendations to maintain a comfortable and healthy work environment.

Size of the Industrial Space

Every enclosed space creates a different set of requirements for airflow and ventilation rates. Larger spaces tend to call for either larger duct systems or a larger amount of smaller duct networks.

Customers play an important role in the ductwork design process. They know the air quality benchmarks they expect to meet, the nature of the work, and the space. Ductwork engineers must work with customers to acknowledge specifications and calculate an appropriately large duct size for the space in question. Final ductwork designs may include round or rectangular ducts and traditional plenum or tapered duct networks. Each consideration can improve the overall efficiency of the system and the air quality workers experience.

Swanton Welding Company, Inc. routinely helps industrial and manufacturing facility customers fabricate, blast, and paint custom large ductwork in every environment. We use high-quality metals and industry best practices to cut, form, and weld ductwork capable of meeting the most rigorous air quality standards. Contact our team at (419) 826-4816 to learn more.