Outcome 5.6 Sheet Metal: HVAC Ductwork Fundamentals for Environmental Systems

Duct System

A network moving air through a building for heating, cooling, ventilation, and filtration.

Supply Air Path

The route through which conditioned air travels from the equipment to various rooms.

Return Air Path

The route through which air returns to equipment for filtering and conditioning.

Exhaust Air Path

The path for removal and discharge of air outdoors, often from kitchens or bathrooms.

Plenum

A chamber that distributes or collects air in a duct system.

Trunk Duct

The main duct that serves as the primary channel in a duct system.

Branch Duct

Smaller ducts that feed air from the trunk duct to individual zones or rooms.

Fittings

Components that change direction, shape, or size in a duct system.

Air Terminal

Devices such as diffusers and grilles that deliver or pull air in and out of spaces.

Balancing Damper

A device used to adjust airflow in duct branches for correct distribution.

Fire Damper

A safety device that limits the spread of fire through duct systems.

Access Panel

Removable panels that allow for maintenance and inspection of ducts.

Turning Vanes

Devices used in elbows to reduce airflow turbulence.

Flexible Connector

Element used to reduce vibration transmission between duct and equipment.

Duct Sealant (Mastic)

A paste-like material used to close joints and seams in ductwork.

Pressure-Sensitive Tape

Specialized tape designed for sealing duct joints and edges.

Gasket

A compressible material used to create a seal between flanged connections.

Insulation

Material used to reduce heat transfer, control condensation, and reduce noise in ducts.

Vapor Barrier

A moisture-resistant layer designed to prevent condensation on ducts carrying cold air.

Slip-and-Drive Connection

A mechanical fastening method for joining sections of ductwork.

Trapeze Hanger

Support structure used to hang rectangular ducts in the installation.

Reinforcement Member

Components added to ductwork to increase strength and stiffness.

Datum Point

A reference point used to establish accurate measurements in duct installation.

Centerline Measurement

A dimensioning method that uses the center of ducts for accurate placement.

Field Sketch

A written diagram of measurements and dimensions taken from the field for fabrication.

Mechanical Fastener

Device used to join sections of ductwork securely and effectively.

Screw or Rivet

Common types of fasteners used in sheet metal ductwork.

Comparison of Materials

Evaluating different duct materials based on specifications and requirements.